In 1986, Larry Leight discovered an estate collection of vintage American-made eyewear that included thousands of beautifully filigreed rimless and metal frames—all unworn, in mint condition, and in original packaging. He purchased the lot, which included a receipt signed “Oliver Peoples,” who he reasoned was the original owner or distributor.

When Leight decided to sell the estate collection in his first retail store, on Sunset Boulevard, it seemed fitting to use the name. It was then that the Oliver Peoples vision was realized: to design a collection of eyewear and create a unique retail experience in a gallery-like setting. Since then, the company has maintained a classic yet innovative approach to eyewear.