Member Article

Man vs machine as designer Jeff Banks tests the future of styling technology in Sheffield

Internationally acclaimed designer Jeff Banks was in Specsavers Sheffield this week to try out the store’s virtual try-on technology.

At the forefront of British fashion over five decades, Jeff went head to head with the store’s brand new tech, Frame Styler, to see how much the world of design has changed over time.

The Frame Styler analyses the shape and contours of customers’ faces before it selects the most suitable frames and the perfect match. The styler is used as part of an eye appointment to help customers find the right glasses.

Jeff Banks’ eyewear collection is the store’s most popular range, perfect for the fashion-savvy male, with each frame named after a cool 60s hangout. Each frame incorporates detailed design features, including branding on the upper temples, crown logo on the temple tips, as well as some hidden secrets.

Jeff Banks comments: ‘It was great to come to Specsavers and test out cutting edge design tech. Seeing what customers have at their hands these days just shows how much the world of design has changed since I started out. I’m always keen to use technological advances wherever possible and see how it can help the industry. Given the fact the Frame Styler picked out my own range, however, it’s certainly got a great taste in style!’

Lorna Armitage, retail director at Specsavers the Moor, comments: ‘It was great to welcome in a true British style icon to the store. Hearing from Jeff on just how much the world of design has changed throughout his career was a real privilege. I think he was impressed with our brand new tech too! Frame Styler has been ideal for us as it uses facial analysis to scan customers’ face shapes and features, before identifying styles and colours from our ranges that look the best, from discreet to statement.

‘The virtual try-on technology allows you to then see first-hand how different glasses change your appearance from all angles. So you can make sure you’re truly rocking those specs!’

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Specsavers .