Oliver Peoples collaborate with the actor’s estate to create a range of iconic glasses
A dashing man on the run adjusts his dark glasses on a crowded train carriage, lowering is guard and frames momentarily. Mysterious, brooding, charming. This slice of cinema history is brought to you by the magnetic Cary Grant in his role as Roger Thornhill, star of the classic Hitchcock thriller North by Northwest. To celebrate his iconic look in the film, Oliver Peoples have collaborated with the actor’s estate, working closely with his family to create an optical and sunglass the man himself would have worn with élan.
Founded in 1987, with the opening of its first boutique in the heart of West Hollywood, Oliver Peoples have always had a vintage feel borrowing from elements of fashion, film, art and music built into its aesthetic. This partnership, however, breaks new ground, as it is the first time the estate has worked with a brand. Discussing the process, creative director Giampiero Tagliaferri states that, “working so closely with Barbara and Jennifer (Grant), and hearing their personal stories about Cary was an exceptional experience and helped us define the details that best reflected his taste. I’m honored Oliver Peoples is now part of his legacy.”
For, Tagliaferri, the glasses can be distilled into three words: “Timeless, Classic, Refined”. Six colorways have been made to include a product-exclusive tortoise acetate, and an 18k gold plated style for boutiques and online. On the temple tip of the frame there is a discreet CG monogram created from his personal stationery, and a custom case inspired by the colors of his suit worn in the film. Tagliaferri adds that Grant was “naturally a man of style. He valued the craftsmanship and quality of a product above all else. He believed investing in a product was in turn, an investment in yourself. This pride of knowledge about what he wore exuded the class, confidence, and sophistication that he was known for.”
Asked why Grant was such a style icon, his daughter Jennifer concludes that “Dad had great taste but above all it was his innate elegance. Elegance in his movement, his thought, and the way he put himself together.”
The Cary Grant will be available the first week of April, 2019
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