The Banana Republic ophthalmic collection will be distributed in the U.S. beginning November 2007 to independent optical stores as well as retail optical chains.

Premiering at Vision Expo West in early October.

The collection includes 36 optical frames (22 female styles and 14 male styles).

In sum, there are 19 plastic styles and 17 metal styles in the launch collection.

Echoing the sophisticated aesthetic found in Banana Republic’s ready-to-wear designs, the eyewear revolves around sleek lines, unique accents, and—above all—wearable shapes.

“Our priority has long been focused on creating elevated designs that are both timeless and approachable,” says Banana Republic EVP Design, Deborah Lloyd. “The eyewear adds a finishing touch to our wardrobe of new classics.”

The collection features a predominance of rectangular shapes but also includes softer ovals as well as a few preppy silhouettes.

The styles are offered in an array of colors including classic metallic tones such as dark gunmetal, antique gold, black satin, shiny burgundy, bakelite brushed and warm gray. Plastic styles include black, havana and burgundy, as well as custom colors including distinct combinations of olive tortoise, smoke ivory, amber tortoise, havana blonde, crystal gray and burgundy.

Logo detailing includes the BR monogram logo on the women’s styles, while the Banana Republic logo is used for the men’s collection.

Suggested price range: $148 to $188 retail ($50 - $70 wholesale).

Marketing for the collection will include trade and consumer advertising as well as visual merchandising materials such as banners, static clings, recall cards, counter cards, 3-piece displays, 24-piece displays, mirrors and a logo plaque.

The Banana Republic women’s ophthalmic collection includes the following styles: Amelia, Belinda, Blaine, Breanna, Cathrine, Elise, Ella, Emilie, Gabrielle, Genevieve, Greer, Gwyneth, Isabel, Jillian, Kaitlin, Kelsea, Maren, Marie, Megan, Sloane, Tessa, and Yvonne.

The Banana Republic men’s ophthalmic collection includes the following styles: Colin, Donovan, Douglas, Edward, Gerry, Gregory, James, Jeremy, Lucas, Malcolm, Martin, Nathan, Nick and Sebastian.

“We are very excited to be able to offer our optical customers an incredibly strong and widely recognizable fashion brand. The Banana Republic ophthalmic collection is a mix of modern fashion and timeless style. We are confident that there will be strong demand for this collection which offers a superior product at an accessible price,” said Dick Russo, executive vice president of Safilo Group.