PARIS—Silmo Paris, one of the world’s leading optics and eyewear exhibition, announced the launch of the third edition of the Optical Design Competition. The contest offers a unique opportunity for new generations of designers to push back the boundaries of innovation in the field of optical eyewear objects. This year’s competition looks at the evolving role of accessory eyewear, exploring the potential for new functionality and innovative uses. Chaired by renowned designer Olivier Jault, the competition encourages students to rethink eyewear beyond its traditional function, incorporating new features that meet the emerging needs of modern society.

Open to students of legal age enrolled in the third, fourth or fifth year of a design course, the competition offers a space for individual or collective expression. Participants can also collaborate with other students meeting the same age and level criteria, thus enriching the diversity of proposals. Projects must be submitted on the dedicated platform by June 15, 2024.

An international jury of design professionals, chaired by Jault, will examine the projects according to criteria such as innovation, creativity, functionality, social and environmental responsibility and project feasibility. The shortlisted entries will be announced in July 2024 and the winning projects will be developed in collaboration with Silmo’s industrial partners.

In addition to the recognition conferred by its success, the winner of the competition will receive a prize of 10,000 euros, awarded jointly to the school and the student. The winner’s creation will be exhibited throughout Silmo Paris 2024, giving it a high profile. The winner’s work may also be presented at Silmo Paris 2025.