Iconic eyewear brand Moscot celebrates over a century of heritage while embracing innovation in design under the guidance of the fifth-generation family member Zack Moscot.
Moscot, the iconic eyewear brand that has been a staple in New York City for over a century, continues to leave its mark on fashion and culture with its distinct approach to eyewear design and its deep-rooted family legacy. Established in 1899 by Hyman Moscot, who initially sold glasses from a pushcart, the company now operates in 32 stores globally, maintaining a reputation for classic elegance over fleeting trends.
The genesis of Moscot can be traced back to the Lower East Side, where Hyman Moscot opened his first store in 1915. This location quickly became essential for both locals and visiting creatives, eventually attracting a clientele that includes legendary figures like Andy Warhol and Demi Moore. As the brand evolved through the years, it has woven itself into the fabric of pop culture, from references in literature to its continued status as a choice for modern celebrities.
In an interview with Faces Magazine, head designer Zack Moscot, who represents the fifth generation of his family in the business, shared insights into the delicate balance between innovation and tradition within the eyewear industry. Zack described his journey into the family business, stating, “When you work in a multi-generational family business, it’s everything that’s discussed.” Despite initially not wanting to pursue optometry like his father, Zack found his niche in design, drawing inspiration from his artistic upbringing.
Zack Moscot reflects on a pivotal childhood moment when, at around four years old, he declared his ambition to his family, exclaiming, “Let me out of the car! I’m an owner!” This early revelation hinted at his eventual role in the company, which he now approaches with a blend of respect for its history and a dedication to its future.
In discussing his interactions with family members at work, he acknowledged the challenges of blending both family and business, noting, “When I see my father at work or even outside of work, everything becomes sort of family and work.” However, he emphasized the shared passion that bonds them and drives their ambition forward.
Zack also highlighted the importance of communication in the business, recalling advice his father imparted: “Pick up the phone and stop being such a millennial.” This reflects the Moscot philosophy of prioritizing personal interactions in an increasingly digital world.
The brand’s unique character is further emphasized in its new advertising campaign, which employs a combination of traditional photography and artificial intelligence. Zack noted that the integration of AI was carefully considered to enhance rather than replace the artistic essence of Moscot’s work, maintaining a connection to its rich history while looking to the future.
While tech-driven eyewear options like smart glasses have not yet caught Moscot’s attention for expansion, Zack acknowledges the diverse preferences among consumers, comparing preferences for traditional versus trendy eyewear to choosing between a Rolex and an Apple Watch. He recognizes that the brand’s focus remains on timeless fashion, with an understanding that different individuals have varied tastes regarding technology and style.
When advising customers on choosing eyewear, Zack emphasized personal expression, stating, “People wear the frames, not the frames wear the people.” This reflects the ethos of individuality prevalent in New York City, which Moscot celebrates through its designs.
Zack also shared his thoughts on the impact of eyewear on personal identity, agreeing with actor Jack Nicholson’s sentiment regarding the enhancement of one’s persona through glasses. He noted, “The glasses are the first thing someone notices about us. Not the belt or the watch.” This understanding of eyewear’s significance extends into how Moscot aims to unite individuals around the world, focusing on their mission to produce high-quality glasses while fostering a sense of community.
As Moscot celebrates over a century of heritage, the brand continues to innovate and connect with wearers across the globe, with Zack Moscot at the helm of its design efforts. Whether through crafting timeless frames or navigating the intersection of tradition and technology, Moscot remains committed to its legacy of excellence in eyewear.
Source: Noah Wire Services
