SILMO, the World Eyewear Optics Exhibition, is launching the third edition of its Optical Design Competition, in conjunction with its 2024 edition.

SILMO Paris, the world’s leading optics and eyewear exhibition, is delighted to announce the launch of the third edition of the Optical Design Competition. A unique opportunity for new generations of designers to push back the boundaries of innovation in the field of optical eyewear objects.

Since 1967, SILMO Paris has been a key event in the world of optics, encouraging young talent to imagine the future of the industry.

THEME OF THE 2024 OPTICAL DESIGN COMPETITION

ACCESSORY EYEWEAR - WHAT NEW FUNCTIONS FOR WHAT NEW USES?

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.

Olivier Jault

A graduate of the ESAA Duperré fashion school, he is now an accessories designer, teacher and exhibition curator, and has worked for many fashion houses including Jean-Paul Gaultier, Repetto and Saint Laurent.

Terms and conditions of participation

Open to students of legal age enrolled in the 3rd, 4th or 5th 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 by 15 June 2024, on the dedicated platform.

Assessment and selection process

An international jury of design professionals, chaired by designer Olivier 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.

Awards

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.

Keep up with the latest trends in optics and explore the future with us at SILMO Paris, from 20 September to 23 September 2024, at the Parc des Expositions Paris Nord Villepinte.