Contact lenses give ffans 'go blue' eyes

Look a Michigan fan straight in the eye and you could see maize and blue.

"Emblem Eyes" a new line of novelty contact lenses were recently introduced by Wesley Jessen, the manufacturer of "Wild Eyes."

The new lenses for collegiate athletics fans are maize circles with a block "M" and the words "Go Blue" written in blue. The "Wild Eyes" contact lenses make eyes appear white or red, and come in a variety of designs such as stars or stripes.

Michigan is currently the only test market for the product, which debuted on the contact lenses market almost three weeks ago. If enough interest is generated, "Emblem Eyes" will eventually be offered to the entire Big Ten conference with each team's respective logo, Jessen said.

DAVID ROCHKIND/Daily Steven Bentton models "Emblem Eyes," maize and blue contact lenses, a new line of Michigan paraphernalia for college athletics fans.

LSA sophomores Lauren Waldo and Kelly Leaman said they were reluctant to try on a pair of the contacts, but they said they appreciate the team spirit of those who have already purchased the lenses.

"Emblem Eyes" are being offered by the optometry offices of H. W. Bennett, located on State Street, Main Street and Greene Road.

"Though it is primarily students that show interest in the novelty lenses, there has been surprising interest expressed from the 30-plus age group as well," Bennett said.

So far, Bennett estimates that 20 pairs of the lenses have been sold, and many other customers are awaiting their prescription orders. The lenses cost anywhere from $100, for those without prescription, to $160, for lens customized with different prescriptions. Bennett said the company is waiting to see how successful the product is before expanding the market.

Bennett's offices currently have 150 pairs of the Michigan contact lenses in stock.

Many students said they are interested in the lenses, but were unsure whether they would actually sport the eye wear.

LSA first-year student Amy Averbook tried on a pair of the Michigan lenses but said she looked "like a psycho."

Although Averbook didn't like the way she looked in the contacts, she said they probably wouldn't stand out among many of the capes and cheese-wedge hats some fans already wear.

09-24-99