Why are Garrett Leight frames so expensive? The hidden value behind these status-symbol frames
Created in California in 2010, Garrett Leight eyewear is strongly influenced by the people, places and stories of the Golden State. Incorporating an easy-going philosophy, the brand reinvents classic styles with a contemporary perspective, creating timeless frames that never go out of style. The appeal of Garrett Leight eyewear has only been strengthened by its celebrity endorsement. From Robert Downey Jr and Tom Holland to Selena Gomez and Kendall Jenner, a host of A-listers have all been spotted in the brand’s products, elevating them to must-have pieces.
Yet with prices spanning from around £260 to approximately £385, you may be wondering, ‘What makes Garrett eyewear so expensive?’ Here, we delve into the hidden value of these status-symbol frames.
Prestigious heritage
The premium price tag of Garrett Leight eyewear is partly due to its distinguished heritage. Garrett’s father Larry is the founder of premium eyewear brand Oliver Peoples, and passed down three decades of expertise to his son. As part of this, Garrett had access to some of the world’s best suppliers, not to mention a wealth of experience and a passion for meticulous design.
Materials
To create its glasses, Garrett Leight sources high-quality materials from across the world. Prestigious manufacturers from Japan, China and Italy supply the titanium, stainless steel and cured acetates, sometimes delivering colourways that are exclusively produced for the house. The lenses, meanwhile, are made from mineral glass and scratch-resistance CR-39 plastic, and feature an anti-reflective coating alongside other treatments that provide exceptional eye protection and visual clarity.
Design
Garrett Leight invests years of development in its products, demanding attention to every detail. The frames are handcrafted by skilled artisans, with each element being carefully considered for fit, proportion and comfort. They are also designed to withstand rough handling and daily use, and feature minimal moving parts to significantly reduce the potential break points.
Value
Intended as an investment piece, Garrett Leight frames each come with a comprehensive two-year warranty for the wearer’s peace of mind. The brand also offers lens clips that can transform optical glasses into sunglasses, negating the need to buy multiple frames and saving wearers upwards of £100.
The celebrity factor
When a brand’s products are seen on celebrities, it instantly increases their desirability. Garrett Leight has a wide range of celebrity fans, including Pedro Pascal, Hailey Bieber, Steven Spielburg, Kendall Jenner, Selena Gomez and Tom Holland. The appeal of these stars extends the brand’s influence, driving investment in its products from those who seek to emulate the style of their favourite celebs.
Garrett Leight eyewear at The Eye Establishment
Here at The Eye Establishment, we’re committed to providing the highest quality eyewear from the world’s most prestigious brands. We have a wide selection of Garrett Leight eyewear available for both men and women, and our experts will help you find the frames that best suit your personal style and preferences. Browse our online store or visit our boutique opticians in Kensington and Chelsea to discover our Garrett Leight glasses and sunglasses today.