(PRESS RELEASE) NORWALK, CT — The NOW Awards by Vision Expo return for 2026, and, for the first time, submissions are open to the entire global eyewear community. Exhibition at Vision Expo is not required, and participation is free.
Designers, brands, and creators worldwide are invited to submit their most visionary eyewear frames for a chance to be recognized on a global stage celebrating innovation, craftsmanship and eyewear design.
Presented by Vision Expo in partnership with the Accessories Council, the NOW Awards honor both established and emerging talent across these categories including:
- Best Sunglass (Independent & Branded)
- Best Optical (Independent & Branded)
- Best Direct to Consumer
- Optical Achievement
- Best Emerging Brand
- Ultimate Accessory, presented by the Accessories Council
Submissions will be reviewed by an influential panel of leaders spanning design, retail, fashion and eyecare including:
- Gary Black, Founder, Black Optical
- Christian Roth & Eric Domege, OPTICAL AFFAIRS
- Selima Salaun, Designer & Owner, Selima Optique
- Victor Sanz, Creative Director, TUMI
- Bob Schulze, Owner, Globe Design and Vision
- Dr. Jennifer Tsai, O.D. & Founder, Line of Sight
- Jeneene Allen, Founder & Fashion Educator, ASGNMT
Selected NOW Awards finalists receive:
- Exposure at the largest optical show in the U.S.
- Select frames featured at a pre-show press and VIP event in Miami
- Inclusion in the NOW showcase, displayed at show entry
- Social media coverage of the NOW showcase
- Live NOW Awards presentation and ceremony at Vision Expo
- Award winners featured in post-show social campaigns and PR
Submission Deadline: February 9, 2026
Product Receipt Deadline: February 16, 2026
Winners Announced: March 12, 2026 at Vision Expo in Orlando
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Learn more and submit here.
Vision Expo 2026 will take place March 11–14, 2026, at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida. The event remains the premier destination for the global vision community to connect, discover, and be inspired by the latest trends, technology, and education in eyecare and eyewear. Register here.
