Earlier this month, the Australian and New Zealand 2016 Spectacle Wearer of the Year (SWOTY) winners, Michelle Jendranata and Brian Hobson, embarked on an experience of a lifetime – an all-expenses paid trip to New York to meet actress and proud spec wearer, Kim Cattrall.

The meet and greet took place over lunch at one of Kim’s favourite haunts, Loews Regency Hotel in New York. Michelle brought her best friend, Paula, as it was through her encouragement that Michelle decided to enter the competition. They were joined by New Zealand SWOTY winner Brian Hobson and his guest, Marcel. In a special afternoon, the winners got to know Kim and chat about the Sex and the City star’s spec style.

Commenting on the win, Michelle says, “The experience really has been an amazing ride, from meeting everyone, the gorgeous judges and the beautiful and amazing Kim Cattrall. New York was one fantastic city and it was a trip of a lifetime. A massive thank you to Specsavers – it has been an honour and an amazing opportunity to have been chosen as Specsavers’ Spectacle Wearer of the Year for 2016.”

Brian also loved taking part in the competition. “What a way to kick off the New Year with a win like this and a trip to New York! I couldn’t believe it when I got the call. Being selected as a finalist was an amazing experience, but having the chance to go to America for the first time and meet my celebrity idol, all thanks to my glasses – now that’s a dream come true,” he says.

The SWOTY competition involves a national hunt for the most stylish and confident spectacle wearers across Australia and New Zealand. Each year, the judging panel is led by a notable spec wearer, with past ambassadors including Eva Longoria, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Margot Robbie, Christina Hendricks, and Helena Christensen.