In 1986, co-Founder and Creative Director Larry Leight opened the doors to their first optical boutique. Leight discovered an estate collection of vintage American-made eyewear that included thousands of beautifully filigreed rimless and metal frames, including clip-on metal sunglasses produced by iconic American companies. All the frames were unworn, in mint condition, and in original packaging. He purchased the entire lot, which included a receipt signed “Oliver Peoples,” who he reasoned was the original owner or distributor. 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. The Company has maintained a classic yet innovative approach to eyewear from day one, presenting vintage-inspired frames that were a significant departure from the futuristic styles and geometric shapes dominant in the late 80s.