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The Great Brands of Optics: Oliver Peoples

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oliver peoples glasses

Since its founding in 1987 in West Hollywood, Oliver Peoples has quickly established itself as a leading name in the luxury eyewear world. The brand , founded by Larry and Dennis Leight, is distinguished by its minimalist aesthetic and meticulous attention to detail. Renowned for its elegant and timeless frames, Oliver Peoples has combined craftsmanship, innovation and discretion, creating an eyewear line that appeals to both celebrities and fashion connoisseurs around the world.

The Origins and Rise of Oliver Peoples

Oliver Peoples was founded in 1987 by Kenny Schwartz and brothers Larry and Dennis Leight in West Hollywood, after discovering a collection of vintage frames. Larry Leight explained in an interview with Lady First magazine how his career began: " As a young optician, before Oliver Peoples, I was designing glasses for all the Vogue stars. In 1984, I designed a frame that I loved – round with a central bar and folding temples – and had it made. One day, a friend from the press in Berlin called me: "Can you send your pair to Männer Vogue in Germany?" A month later, my first glasses were on Andy Warhol's nose. "

Inspired, brothers Leight and Kenny Schwartz chose to launch a brand that stood out for its discretion and craftsmanship. Contrary to the flashy trends of the time, Oliver Peoples adopted a minimalist style, avoiding visible logos and favoring quality materials and clean shapes.

The brand's impact was quickly felt in the fashion and optical worlds, attracting a loyal following and celebrities seduced by its intellectual aesthetic. The focus is on classic acetate and titanium frames, hand-crafted primarily in Italy and Japan. This attention to detail and refusal to follow fleeting trends has allowed Oliver Peoples to build a timeless brand image.

Evolution and impact of the brand on the optical industry

The acquisition of the brand by Luxottica in 2006 allowed Oliver Peoples to expand its global reach while remaining true to its identity. The brand continues to stand out through collaborations with influential designers, artists and brands, reinforcing its status as an icon in the world of luxury eyewear. The eyewear maker recently embarked on a collaboration with tennis champion Roger Federer, launching a collection that traces his long and prolific career.

Roger Federer with glasses

Among the most iconic models is the Gregory Peck , a frame inspired by the glasses worn by the actor in the film To Kill a Mockingbird . This model symbolises the perfect balance between tradition and innovation, a philosophy that underpins Oliver Peoples’ entire strategy. By offering eyewear that is both functional and aesthetic, the brand has redefined the notion of luxury in optics, attracting an audience seeking understated sophistication. Oliver Peoples remains an essential reference for opticians and lovers of exclusive frames.

Oliver Peoples embodies a perfect fusion of artisanal tradition and innovation in the optical sector. Since its inception, the brand has maintained a minimalist and timeless aesthetic, while pushing the boundaries of eyewear design. Today, it remains a global reference in luxury frames, appealing to both optical professionals and fashion enthusiasts. With a loyal following and innovative collaborations, Oliver Peoples continues to redefine the standards of understated luxury and visual quality.

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