Mark Collman and Phillip Wilson with Robert Morris of William Morris (centre) at Mido

“Mido is to eyewear what Oscar night is to cinema,” said Giovanni Vitaloni, Mido president at this year’s event in Milan.

Organisers said the 48^th Mido event this year welcomed more than 58,000 eyewear professionals and 1,305 exhibitors across three days to seven pavilions, showcasing eyewear, technology and new innovations, the latter being the theme of this year’s event. Mido organisers noted a strong increase in foreign attendees, resulting in a 4.9% increase in overall attendance and 5% in the exhibitor space.

Phoenix Eyewear’s Mark Collman, a veteran of 21 Midos, said this year’s fair certainly delivered. “In typical Italian style, especially during Milan fashion week, the event was full of immaculately dressed locals, oceans of espresso and prosecco, gorgeous promo girls, lavish stands plus the occasional sneaky pick pocket.”

When queried about the latest trends, both Collman and his colleague Phillip Wilson agreed it’s clear the double bridge metal aviator is back with a vengeance both for men and women. Metal frames were also once again at the forefront of many of the new optical collections, which the Phoenix team thought was interesting as metal frames have long been a great seller in New Zealand and growing still. For all lovers of colourful acetates, however, it’s not all gloom as Collman and Wilson said plastic still pretty much dominates the fashion scene, many in large 70s and 80s inspired oversized looks.

"I honestly feel that after a couple of flat years this year's vibe was the most optimistic and positive I have experienced in recent times,” said Collman. “Everyone we came across supplying the independent eyewear sector were really busy and in great shape which has to be good for the future!"