Stuart Weitzman inks eyewear deal with Safilo

Safilo Group announced on Thursday a new global licensing agreement with Stuart Weitzman for the design, manufacturing and distribution of the New York brand’s sunglasses and optical eyewear collections.

Running through June 2029, the first eyewear collection, which includes both sunglasses and optical, will be launched in North America for the fall/winter 2024 season.

“Stuart Weitzman is known for creating stylish, comfortable, high-quality shoes that inspire confidence — and just like footwear, eyewear is an emotional, everyday accessory,” said Giorgio Sarné, Stuart Weitzman CEO and brand president.

“Our goal is to infuse our signature values into eyewear and create accessories that help our consumers look and feel their best.”

The Italian eyewear maker already holds the licensing rights for Kate Spade, also part of the Tapestry folio of brands, in which Stuart Weitzman is a part of.

“Building on our long history and successful collaboration with Tapestry, Inc. we are very proud to start this new partnership with Stuart Weitzman, an iconic brand that is synonymous with women’s global luxury footwear. As this agreement marks the coveted footwear brand’s entry into eyewear, we are excited to introduce to the market a distinctively designed launch collection,” said Angelo Trocchia, CEO of Safilo Group.

“Furthermore, Stuart Weitzman represents an excellent brand addition to our portfolio in the women’s luxury eyewear segment.”

Founded in 1986, Stuart Weitzman is a New York City-based global luxury footwear brand combines artisan Spanish craftsmanship with contemporary style.

Established in 1934 in Italy’s Veneto region, Safilo Group is one of the eyewear industry’s major players in the design, manufacturing and distribution of prescription frames, sunglasses, outdoor eyewear, goggles and helmets. Most recently in June, it signed a 10-year licensing agreement with fashion label Etro.