Some of the initial members of the edCFDA are (l to r) Christian Roth, Selima Salaun, Robert Marc, Larry Leight, Gai Gherardi, Shane Baum and Blake Kuwahara.
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LAS VEGAS—Following a successful debut at International Vision Expo East, the Eyewear Designers of the Council of Fashion Designers of America (edCFDA) will gather here at Vision Expo West for a high-end designer panel discussion on Sept. 18.

“The optical industry continues to face shifting waves of consolidation and expansion,” said James Spina, editor 20/20 and moderator of the panel. “I’m pleased to lead a conversation that focuses on the inner thoughts of top eyewear designer and provides insights on navigating the creative and competitive challenges of today's optical market.”

The panel will feature noted eyewear design visionaries, including:

• Blake Kuwahara of Blake Kuwahara Eyewear
• Christian Roth of Christian Roth Eyewear
• Gai Gherardi of l.a. Eyeworks
• Robert Marc of Robert Marc Eyewear
• Selima Salaun of Selima Optique
• Shane Baum of Baum Vision

“The members of the edCFDA are excited to once again participate in an event that is so closely tied to our mission,” said Roth, spokesman of the edCFDA. “Through events like, this we aim to inspire, empower and promote awareness of eyewear design and the vitality of the optical industry.”

The discussion will be held in The Galleria Lounge (Booth #G25052) from 4:00 – 5:00 pm. The discussion will be followed by a meet and greet champagne reception with the participating eyewear designers until 6:00 pm. Registration is not required.

The Galleria Lounge can be found in the back, right corner of The Galleria. When entering the exhibit hall, you turn right and enter The Galleria through overhead archway signage.

The CFDA announced the Eyewear Designers of the CFDA (edCFDA), the new group within the Council created by 12 CFDA Member eyewear designers, in fall 2014.