Oliver Peoples glasses are everywhere these days. From suburban cafes and corporate offices to prominent movie placements and celebrity sightings, people are choosing OP.
So, are they worth the price, or is it all hype? Let’s look deeper into what’s made these eyeglasses so popular!
What Is It About Oliver Peoples Eyeglasses?
Oliver Peoples has a curious origin. The founders, Kenny Schwartz and brothers Larry and Dennis Leight, were working as Hollywood opticians in the 1980s. As the story goes, these men wanted more than the gaudy frames coming their way.
Luck brought them to a New York City warehouse with a treasure trove of vintage eyewear. And Oliver Peoples? That was the name on the receipt they found amongst their loot. And so, paying homage to a stranger, the OP brand was born.
Exceptional Craftsmanship
Since its inception, Oliver Peoples has established an enviable reputation as an eyewear company dedicated to heritage craftsmanship. Its frames are meticulously made in a factory in Fukui, Japan, and each piece is handcrafted to the highest standards.
The company also has a factory in Italy for its acetates and polished metals. Clearly, the team behind the eyewear knows what it’s doing, and they have successfully distinguished their brand from other luxury eyewear.
The stars have noticed, too. Since the 1980s, A-listers, including Brad Pitt, Leonardo DiCaprio, Angelina Jolie, and Jennifer Lawrence, have made a beeline for OP eyewear.
Limited Edition Collaborations
If it’s not the indirect celebrity endorsements that solidify Oliver People’s star power, it might be the limited edition collaborations with style icons. OP has consistently offered eyewear in old-school Hollywood styles.
Their collections pay homage to icons such as Gregory Peck and Elton John. They even partnered with Cary Grant’s estate for the actor’s collection of shades and specs.
And it’s not just actors and musicians who help sell their specs! Tennis great Roger Federer is one of the latest collaborators with the recent release of the Roger Federer x OP 2025 performance eyewear collection.
Global Presence Through the Luxottica Group
Arguably, one reason for the most recent surge in popularity was the recent changing of hands. Oliver Peoples was purchased by Oakley in 2006, and a year later, Oakley was acquired by the Luxottica Group.
Rocco Basilico is the head of the Luxottica Group’s luxury brands. He became OP’s CEO in 2016 and has since increased the retail footprint by more than 200%.
Favorite Oliver Peoples Eyeglasses
These standout frames exemplify the brand’s distinguished style. From vintage-inspired shapes to classic, high-quality frames, there is something for everyone.
Retro Round Glasses
Round glasses exude a retro vibe while looking smart and sophisticated. Oliver Peoples has some styles that bring the classic ’70s groovy look to life.
Round glasses are available in a variety of frames, ranging from Havana brown to simple, sleek black ones.
Which Faces Suit Round Glasses?
Generally, angular faces suit circular frames best. So, men with prominent jawlines and brow bones and women with sharp cheekbones often look great in round glasses.
Oval faces can also look great in round specs as they complement each other and create a balanced look. Regardless of your face shape, the key is making sure the round frames aren’t too big for your face. The frames shouldn’t reach near the bottom of your nose or the top of your eyebrows.
Top Picks for Round Frames
Oliver Peoples GREGORY PECK
The Oliver Peoples OV5186 Gregory Peck design is a modern reimagining of the eyewear Peck wore when he played Atticus Finch in 1962’s To Kill a Mockingbird. This unisex eyewear exudes the strength and wisdom we’ve always wanted in Hollywood leading men.
Oliver Peoples RILEY-R
Oliver Peoples OV5004 RILEY-R eyeglasses are unisex frames with a woodgrain pattern. Available in colors like Storm (gray), Cocobolo (brown and gold), Denim (blue), and Dark Mahogany, these glasses exemplify the classic shape and stylings that make pairing them with your favorite casual outfit or workwear easy.
EZContacts customer Vandeep K. agrees that they’re stylish and look great on smaller faces:
“I have a few OP frames that are slightly larger than this, but this size (45-20) is my favorite. It’s so comfortable. I have two different colors in this frame, and might add another since the style suits me and doesn’t slide down my face. I have a narrow oval face and high cheekbones, and generally have trouble finding glasses that fit. These frames are perfect and a great deal on this site!”
Oliver Peoples CARY GRANT
As mentioned earlier, one of the biggest Oliver Peoples collaborations was with the estate of legendary Hollywood actor Cary Grant. Oliver Peoples OV5413U CARY GRANT are available in four colors. These two-tone frames will have compliments rolling in!
Classic Rectangular Glasses
Rectangular glasses are a staple that don’t dip in and out of fashion. Oliver Peoples crafts some timeless rectangular frames, with a focus on high-quality construction. They include classic styles, such as brown and black frames, that are perfect for daily wear.
Which Faces Suit Rectangular Glasses?
Round faces look great with rectangular glasses. The angles balance out curvy faces for some contrast. They also suit pear faces (wide jawlines and narrow foreheads).
For both men and women, this shape can be straightforward and flattering. It’s also a good choice for work glasses that look professional yet chic.
Top Picks for Rectangular Glasses
Oliver Peoples ROSSON
Oliver Peoples OV5540U ROSSON eyeglasses are full-rim classic tortoiseshell frames that are chic and smart. Wear them as you dive deep into your favorite book at that quiet little cafe you’ve been meaning to get back to.
Oliver Peoples MR. FEDERER
Oliver Peoples OV5553U MR. FEDERER eyeglasses are no-nonsense men’s eyewear with a black semi-matte finish and the brand logo along the arms. They’re sporty and serious, just like their namesake. People will know you’re playing to win when you show up in these frames!
Oliver Peoples BERRINGTON
The Oliver Peoples OV5427U BERRINGTON glasses have that Clark Kent appeal. They’re understated, classic, and perfect for every situation and outfit. They look great with a dapper suit, a casual pullover, or a sleek leather jacket. The ultra-minimalist, unisex design is perfect for anyone who doesn’t want their glasses to compete with their facial features.
EZContacts customer Karl M. agrees they look and feel great:
“Love them! Comfortable, stylish. Definitely recommend.”
’60s-Inspired Women’s Glasses
Oliver Peoples has a range of styles that are inspired by glamorous women’s fashion. Some models would fit right into the ’60s, whether worn by Jackie Kennedy or Audrey Hepburn.
There are oversized glasses, cat-eye styles, and timeless tortoiseshell frames.
Cat eye glasses can look good on anyone, but they particularly suit round faces and those with soft features. The upward angles of the frames draw the eye up, which adds structure, complementing the curves. They also look great on narrow faces because they elongate without overwhelming.
As for oversized frames, the key is to make sure the edges of the frames reach the edge of your face so they’re not too wide. They should also end about two-thirds down your nose so they’re not too big.
Top Picks for ’60s-Inspired Frames
Oliver Peoples 1998RX
Oliver Peoples OV1328 1998RX are metallic full-rim women’s eyeglasses in stunning silver. The butterfly-shaped frames are perfect for days you’re feeling dainty, but they pair just as well with playful outfits. This eyewear will make everyone take a second look!
Oliver Peoples PENNEY
The Oliver Peoples OV5375U PENNEY features a subtle cat-eye shape that suits a variety of faces, including oval and heart shapes. The frames come in a few colors, including bold teal and classic black and tortoiseshell print.
Jennifer L. thinks so:
“Beautiful frames. Great service.”
Oliver Peoples CORDINA
Oliver Peoples OV5567U CORDINA eyeglasses are classic Jackie O-style frames with OP’s signature subtle stylings. The temple arms are thin and highlighted by delicate metal studs along the hinges. This is everyday glamor you can wear anytime, anyplace.
Statement Glasses and Quirky Styles
Although Oliver Peoples focuses on classic glasses and vintage-inspired styles, they also make some cool, quirky frames. These eyeglasses are a smart buy for anyone who wants to expand their collection.
Statement glasses can suit a variety of faces; the key is to find a pair that fits your personality!
Top Picks for Statement Glasses
Oliver Peoples ETLIN
The Oliver Peoples ETLIN 0OV1355T specs are as quirky as it gets. The round shape, double bridge, and gold/tortoise combination give the Etlin glasses an eccentric look. They give subtle Harry Potter, dark academia energy while being perfect for retro outfits and vintage lovers.
Oliver Peoples AVIARA
Love quirky glasses? The Oliver Peoples OV1319T AVIARA 0OV1319T are fun yet still minimalist. The thin burgundy frame is elegant and sophisticated, while the corners create a butterfly shape. This style is perfect for amping up any boring work outfit!
Oliver Peoples HILDIE
The Oliver Peoples OV5457U HILDIE is a balance between classic and fun! The black frames are completed with a touch of gradient yellow. The design is only featured at the bottom of the frames, adding yet another twist. They are the perfect pair if you want to make a fashion statement without drawing too much attention.
So, Is the Price Point Worth It?
Oliver Peoples eyeglasses come with a hefty price tag, highlighting the exclusivity of these frames. The big question is whether or not the price tag is hype-driven or necessary.
Let’s remember the key attributes that set OP apart from other luxury brands:
- Premium materials ✔️
- Japanese and Italian craftsmanship ✔️
- True vintage designs ✔️
- Celebrity-approved ✔️
- Major collaborations ✔️
- Solely eyewear-focused ✔️
Yep, the hefty price point is understandable.
Ultimately, though, the decision depends on your priorities. If high-quality eyewear is high on your list of necessities and you don’t mind spending a few extra bucks for a renowned designer name and the craftsmanship that comes with it, these might be for you.
Consider it an investment in classic eyewear that may never go out of style!
TL;DR
Oliver Peoples glasses are popular for a whole host of reasons. Ever since the brand’s inception, it has focused on wearable, timeless eyewear in a range of styles.
- They have created models inspired by Old Hollywood era actors like Cary Grant, emphasizing their love of the vintage aesthetic.
- The main shapes include circular and rectangular frames, which suit a range of faces.
- The frames come in classic colors and designs, including tortoiseshell, gray, and navy.
- Although the majority of Oliver Peoples glasses are timeless, they do offer some quirky frames for those who love bold fashion.
Shop the Oliver Peoples Collection
