There are a few specialized sunglasses brands that stand the test of time. Oliver Peoples is one of them.
The brand isn’t just focused on trends. They also care about quality and creating an eyewear legacy through Oliver Peoples sunglasses and eyeglasses.
The latest collection, which pays homage to Paul Newman, proves that the brand cares about heritage over flashy fashion.
Why Oliver Peoples Is So Popular
Oliver Peoples is a brand that just focuses on eyewear; they don’t make dresses, shoes, or anything else. Created in 1986 by Kenny Schwartz and brothers Larry and Dennis Leight, the brand has gone from strength to strength.
Kenny and Larry were opticians with a store in California. One day, they bought a collection of glasses at auction, and they found the original owner’s name was Oliver Peoples. They decided to name their new company after him.
It makes sense that a pair of California opticians is behind some of the coolest high-quality glasses on the market. Oakley, another major eyewear player, sat up and took notice. They bought Oliver Peoples for $46.7 million in 2006 (Oakley was later acquired by the world’s largest eyewear manufacturer, Luxottica).
2026 Brings New Collections and Collaborations
With its latest collection, Oliver Peoples is paying homage to Paul Newman, a famous Hollywood actor (and later race car driver as well as a dedicated philanthropist). The stylish glasses are part of their 2026 collection.
Why Paul Newman?
In case you don’t know much about him (how can you not?), Paul Newman was known for having the most famous blue eyes in movie history. He had starring roles in many classic movies, including Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid and Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, immortalizing him in Hollywood and beyond.
A Perfect Fit for Oliver Peoples
Newman was known for his masculine elegance, dapper dress sense, and cool sophistication. All these attributes are reasons why Oliver Peoples decided to create the Sun frames inspired by him. After becoming a cemented Hollywood icon, Newman discovered his love of racing cars in his 40s, which just added to his hero status.
The Paul Newman glasses are the latest addition to the brand’s timeless luxury collection, inspired by movie stars such as Gregory Peck and Cary Grant. Some of the most popular Oliver Peoples sunglasses are part of this collection, reaffirming that you can never go wrong with the classics.
The Magic of Paul Newman Glasses Is in the Details
The frames of these Oliver Peoples sunglasses are made in Japan and feature an original teardrop-shaped lens, inspired by Newman’s signature shades. They come in bold colorways, including blue (inspired by his piercing eyes) and matte brown semi-transparent acetate frames.
The glasses are designed with custom features, such as a metal temple cap that features the actor’s initials, “PLN.” Even the case features the signature collaboration logo and custom packaging, which adds to the appeal.
The glasses were launched in January 2026 on what would have been Paul Newman’s 101st birthday. They’re available in stores and online alongside other Oliver Peoples sunglasses and specs. Prices range from $490 and upwards, and a portion supports Newman’s foundation, which helps vulnerable kids.
The Core Sunglasses
The Paul Newman glasses are part of a wider Oliver Peoples sunglasses collection, which has become a staple for eyewear enthusiasts over the years.
Instead of creating gimmicky one-off sunglasses that fade over time, the brand focuses on styles that will look just as great in 40 years as they do today.
It’s no wonder their formula of using actors as muses is working.
The Gregory Peck Sunglasses
The Gregory Peck sunglasses, with their round shape and selection of dapper frames, have become a cult classic. They are perfect for those who love a little retro fashion and appreciate the originality of the ‘60s.
These shades have been spotted on other famous actors, including Robert Downey Jr. and Jennifer Aniston (they are unisex).
The Cary Grant Sunglasses
The Cary Grant glasses are another pair of Oliver Peoples sunglasses named after a famous A-list actor. They’re also rounded but sit differently on the nose bridge. In addition, they feature different colorways, including these unique blue lenses below.
Celebrities, including Liam Hemsworth and Julia Roberts, have been spotted in these classics.
The Mr. Federer Sunglasses
Another legend, this time in the sporting world, tennis superstar Roger Federer also has a pair of sunglasses named after him (and thankfully not posthumously). They’re called Mr. Federer sunglasses.
They feature a rectangular shape inspired by his suave style and effortless charm. They’re so cool that Federer himself has been spotted out and about countless times in the sunglasses.
More Non-Celebrity-Inspired Sunglasses
The Oliver Peoples sunglasses collection features dozens of styles in a range of shapes and colors.
There are square frames, such as the Lachman sunglasses, which are perfect for those who don’t suit rounded frames. These shades are a no-brainer for everyday wear; throw them on, and look like a 10/10.
The Benedict aviator sunglasses are perfect for vacations and for that summertime glow. They come with gradient lines that add to the appeal.
As you can see, there’s something to suit every face, style, and preference!
TL;DR
Oliver Peoples sunglasses are all about that classic heritage, taking inspiration from Hollywood actors, including Cary Grant, and iconic sports stars such as Roger Federer.
- The brand was founded by opticians who understood that eyewear is about practicality and style in equal measure.
- The latest model is named after legendary actor Paul Newman, and the blue acetate frames pay homage to his striking blue eyes.
- The Newman sunglasses are a new addition in 2026 and are set to be sought-after with the teardrop-shaped lenses and Japanese-made frames.
- The brand creates classic models that never feel dated, but rather remind us that fashion isn’t always about the latest trends.
- Styles featuring square, rectangular, and aviator shapes are perfect for daily wear, vacation, and emulating A-list actors.
Shop Oliver Peoples sunglasses here.
