SILMO Paris Launches 4th Edition of the Optical Design Contest
Calling Future Innovators
SILMO Paris, the iconic event in the optics and eyewear sector since 1967, is once again championing creativity and innovation with the 4th edition of the Optical Design Contest.
This initiative reaffirms SILMO’s commitment to fostering expertise, supporting the industry, and inspiring the next generation of talent.
A Platform for Tomorrow’s Visionaries
The Optical Design Contest serves as a powerful springboard for design students worldwide, encouraging them to push the boundaries of innovation in optics and eyewear. This inspiring challenge invites participants to showcase their vision for the future, encouraging them to become active contributors in an ever-evolving industry.
Internationally renowned Belgian designer and interior architect Michel Penneman is renowned for his innovative hotel renovations and his mastery of architectural narrative and colour. Since his first projects in the 1990s, he has adopted an eclectic, conceptual approach, marked by a particular interest in light, transparency and adapting to the spirit of the place.
Theme of the 2025 Contest: Superhero Glasses
This year, the competition delves into the transformative potential of eyewear. Students will explore how eyewear can transcend its traditional function to become a powerful tool for:
- Enhancing vision and expanding perceptions of the world,
- Transforming vision and the environment around us,
- Redefining eyewear as cutting-edge technology rather than merely a health accessory.
Participants are tasked with creating bold, innovative designs that elevate eyewear to instruments of transformation, offering a new way to view and interact with the world.
Terms and Conditions of Entry
The contest is open to students in their 3rd, 4th, or 5th year of a design program. Submissions, whether individual or team projects, must be submitted by 16 June 2025 on the dedicated platform.
Evaluation Criteria
Entries will be judged on:
- Innovation,
- Functional relevance,
- Responsible commitment, and
- Technical feasibility.
Finalists will be announced in July 2025, and their prototypes will be exhibited at SILMO Paris 2025.
A Prestigious Prize
The winning designer will not only gain industry recognition but also receive a €10,000 prize, split equally between the individual (or team) and their school. The winning design will also be prominently featured at SILMO Paris 2026, ensuring wide exposure for the project.
Key Dates to Remember
- 16 June 2025: Closing date for entries
- July 2025: Announcement of nominees
- 26 September 2025: Prize ceremony during SILMO Paris
Join the Challenge!
The Optical Design Contest 2025 is more than just a competition—it’s an invitation to reimagine the possibilities of eyewear and shape the future of the industry. Don’t miss your chance to showcase your creativity and innovation to a global audience.
About SILMO
SILMO PARIS 2025
September 26-29, 2025
Paris Nord, Villepinte
SILMO is the most exciting international optics and eyewear trade, which takes place at the exhibition Center Paris Nord Villepinte (Paris), and welcomes the professional of the optical & eyewear sector.
Square meters
Exhibitors
Visitors
Professionals from all over the world, of all ages and backgrounds, who work tirelessly every day to improve vision and enhance the beauty of the eyes. Mobilized and enthusiastic professionals who share strong values and convictions and offer a fresh perspective on optics: YOU ARE THE SILMO GENERATION! The SILMO generation knows that this annual event is the focal point for all visionaries.
Attracting trade visitors and exhibitors worldwide since 1967, SILMO has established itself as the most significant international optics and eyewear industry event based on three areas - fashion, technology and health. The trade show hosts exciting live editions annually at Paris-Nord Villepinte Parc des Expositions, breaking into new markets and promoting innovation and design.
“Higher, further, stronger, SILMO Paris 2024 is more than just a trade show. Guided by the values of commitment, respect and high standards, this event celebrates the excellence and passion that drive our industry. In this exceptional year, we are delighted to welcome professionnals from all over the world to share our vision of the future topics”
Recognised as a dynamic centre of attraction within the industry, SILMO Paris is ambitiously preparing to support its community through proactive and intiatives such as SILMO Next, SILMO d’Or & SILMO Academy. This international event embodies the innovative vision of the topics and eyewear industry, combining avant-gardism, know-how and expertise.
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