Applications are now open for the 2027 Sergio Cereda Eyewear Design Award, an international competition recognizing emerging eyewear designers.
The award will be presented during MIDO | Milano Eyewear Show, taking place Feb. 6-8, 2027, in Milano, Italy. Founded by Harvey Ross and presented in partnership with the Ross Viva Family Foundation, MIDO, and the Cereda Family, the competition honors Sergio Cereda, an eyewear designer known for translating brand identity into eyewear collections.
A total of $20,000 will be awarded, including $10,000 for first place, $5,000 for second place, $3,000 for third place, and $2,000 for the Harvey’s Choice Award.
Updated Theme and Format
This year’s competition revolves around the theme “The DNA of Design: Eyewear Reimagined.” Participants are asked to look beyond aesthetics and approach eyewear through identity, storytelling, and purpose. Entrants may reinterpret the design philosophy of an existing brand, movement, or aesthetic, or develop an original concept.
For 2027, applicants are asked for a complete collection rather than a single frame. Each participant must submit either three original optical frame designs or three original sunglass designs that show originality, versatility, and a consistent design language.
Entrants must also submit a one- to two-minute video presentation explaining the inspiration behind the collection, the creative process, and how the designs reflect the DNA of the chosen brand or original concept.
Judges
Entries will be evaluated by a panel of the following industry leaders and design experts:
- Harvey Ross, Founder, Viva International Group, CEO, Optyx New York and HMR Holdings
- Lorraine Berton, President, MIDO | Milano Eyewear Show and ANFAO
- Stefania Cereda Oppermann, Design Consultant, EssilorLuxottica
- Caterina Cereda, Strategic Consultant, Co-Founder Sergio Cereda Archive
- David Friedfeld, President, Clear Vision Optical
- Giovanni Vitaloni, Founder, Vanni Eyewear
- Bruno Palmegiani, Eyewear Designer
Inspiration and More
Ross says the competition challenging students to think strategically, communicate their ideas, and design with authenticity. “Sergio Cereda understood that exceptional design begins with understanding,” he says. “Before he ever designed a frame, he immersed himself in a brand’s identity—its customer, its materials, its history, and its purpose. He believed great designers create collections, not just products.”
For more on the competition criteria and for the application info, visit the award website. Also, follow on Instagram at @sergioceredaaward for updates, announcements, behind-the-scenes content, and more.