Hall of Frames – Zurich

The Hall of Frames in Zurich has made a name for itself as a trend fair and it is the meeting point for independent opticians and eyewear designers in Switzerland. For the first time, the Hall of Frames will take place before the SILMO in Paris, on September 15 & 16, 2019. A survey among the exhibitors, showed that most of them have already their news for autumn. The location of the event is the famous “Papiersaal” in the Sihlcity, Zurich. Around 40 brands have already registered. Many of the exhibitors are among the pioneers who have shaped the market over the years.

This year, it is particularly difficult to define a specific trend. Fine-edged metal glasses have finally arrived at the market and enjoy a still increasing popularity. Most shapes are roundish and still slightly oversized. Double bridges are on demand but haven’t established yet. Color wise silver frames are a safe horse, Rose Gold celebrates a great revival. In general, warm colours are increasingly in demand. Rimlsess frames are hot, they attract classic customers but also the Avant-Garde.

The demand for glasses from the 3D printer is very high. In addition to the innovation factor, the lightness and stability of the polyamide does convince not only opticians. The comfort of 3D frames sets a new standards. As this technology evolves, sintered glasses will remain a hot theme. In the future it will be increasingly important to make glasses individually for the customer. For this purpose, the 3D technology in combination with a scanner has a huge potential.

Acetate frames in all colour variations remain important. The shapes can be also very female, crazy and wild. The basic nerd frame will never die.

Natural materials such as wood or horn frames have settled at a high level. Especially in this segment, the high demands of the Swiss customers and their high purchasing power are exemplarily shown. No country in the world sells as many high quality glasses per capita as the Swiss. Opticians who work with natural materials are usually among the best craftsmen in their field.

The glasses are also an accessory! Here Swiss opticians could become bolder. Whether these are lightly tinted glasses or narrow matrix glasses à la Rihanna, the glasses may also be just a piece of jewellery.