WO·WO
[wo-wo] noun
translates to EYE in Aruba’s native language, Papiamento.
1. Born in Aruba
A sister/brother duo with 20 years of experience in the optical industry created WOWO Eyewear. This curated collection captures their unique Caribbean lifestyle.
2. Handmade in Italy
Each piece is hand-crafted according to Italian artisan tradition using only the finest acetate and highest quality hinges. This means every frame is truly one-of-a-kind.
The Story of WOWO Eyewear
We were born into an optical family. Papa Bert de Vries was an optometrist who ran stores and practices in the UEA, USA, and the Netherlands before settling on a small island in the Caribbean called Aruba.
Growing in it
As we got older, our parents involved us with the daily running of the business, and as teens, we started to join trade shows in New York, Milan, Paris, Miami, and Vegas.
Leveled up
Marcus decided to follow in his dad’s footsteps, becoming a licensed optician and contact lenses specialist. Meanwhile, Iris dove into marketing and communications with a minor in branding while working at optical retail start-ups such as Warby Parker and Ace & Tate.
The family finally reunited in 2020 when both siblings returned to the island, officially bringing the two generations together.
Something different
Seeing the evolution of the eyewear industry over the past two decades, we felt a need to create something that better represented our generation.
Summer of 2023 we launch WOWO Eyewear’s first collection. It includes all the classic styles, but we also found a space to experiment with “retro-future” shapes and colors.
This is WOWO Eyewear
WOWO Eyewear embodies accessible luxury. Handcrafted in Italy using premium materials, each piece is a testament to quality and craftsmanship.
“We envision a collection that reflects our generation.” – Iris
WOWO Eyewear is a brand that includes your favorite classic, timeless styles with playful, more modern, fashion-forward shapes and colors. Crafted by hand in Italy, WOWO Eyewear frames are a testament to the quality, craftsmanship, and commitment to bringing accessible luxury to everyday life.
