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Shoppers wrapping up a visit to Ralph Lauren's New York flagship store might be inclined to spend a little more time in its tony retail neighborhood these days. In November, the American design house set a precedent among its competitors like Marc Jacobs, Calvin Klein and Donna Karan by opening a jewel-sized boutique a few blocks away at 811 Madison Avenue dedicated solely to its assortment of sunglasses, ophthalmics and sport frames.
The 525-square-foot space showcases an equally divided selection of women's and men's styles from its RLX, Polo Ralph Lauren, Ralph Lauren and Purple Label eyewear lines, all produced by the Padua, Italy-based eyewear firm Safilo Group. It is the first accessories-driven retail concept on behalf of Ralph Lauren and could boost its overall accessories business, which now accounts for 10.8 percent of Polo Ralph Lauren's wholesale net volume, amounting to $549 million, as stated in the company's 2005 annual report.
"The right accessories convey a modern, glamorous attitude," said Ralph Lauren, the company's designer, chairman and chief executive officer. "Eyewear is no exception. I am thrilled...