I hate to admit I was unfamiliar with an eyewear line, but even with my many years in the Optical industry, I was completely unfamiliar with the Alexander Collection from A&A Optical. That is what made this assignment interesting to me. When researching new eyewear lines, I like to do some homework in order to educate myself, my staff, and ultimately my patients about what it is they are purchasing, and in doing this research, here is what I learned.

The Alexander Collection has been on the market for more than 20 years and in that time it has undergone many changes. It has been a men’s collection, a mature ladies collection, and today this collection is geared to be a line of classically tailored eyewear that fits the traditionally “hard to fit” female patient. Within this collection are pieces that range from petite to robust, (47 to 57 A Measurements) fitting and flattering women of all size ranges. The larger size frames are politely labeled “Perfect Fit.” One feature this Optician was especially pleased with was the depth of the B Measurement even in the petite fitting eyewear. (Hello Progressive Friendly Frames!)

The Alexander Collection features frames that routinely consist of two sizes and most have three striking color choices in each frame. Each frame is designed to have a little “something special” within it as the traditionally hard to fit female patient often has few choices, especially one with special design elements. The line contains frames of both acetate, and metal construction and features laser etching, hand set crystals, animal print embellishments and many other style features that make this line special.

Another appealing feature of the Alexander Collection is its moderate pricing range. Let’s not kid ourselves, pricing is an important factor in any practice today and it’s so important to identify well-made products that are kept within a moderate price range.

Originally this line was named for Alexander Liener, the founder and father of A&A Optical’s current CEO, Robert Liener and his wife Agnes. The nod to heritage is no surprise considering A&A Optical is a family owned business that has been around since 1971. A&A Optical carries a variety of lines including Quicksilver, Roxy, Jimmy Crystal New York, XXL, Cruz, Jalepenos, Pez, and New Globe as well as the Alexander Collection.

Looking for a line that fits the hard to fit? Looking for one with style and grace? Consider the Alexander Collection from A&A Optical. Even though I was unfamiliar with this line going into this assignment, I’m glad I got to know more about the Alexander Collection.

Johnna Dukes, ABOC, FNAO is currently the owner and operator of an optical boutique, with experience in both the private practice sector as well as the retail chain setting. She has a wide range of experience varying from optical support staff to dispensary management to practice ownership. She lives in Okoboji, Iowa.