Oliver Peoples vs Moscot (and Persol and Garrett Leight)
Oliver Peoples, Moscot, Persol and Garrett Leight are the brands people compare most when they want a classic, vintage-inspired frame that's a step above everyday designer eyewear. They overlap in price and look, but each has its own personality. Here's how Oliver Peoples compares with each.
At a Glance
| Oliver Peoples | Moscot | Persol | Garrett Leight | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Founded | 1987, Los Angeles | 1915, New York | 1917, Turin | 2010, Venice, CA |
| Known for | Vintage-inspired, refined Hollywood style | Chunky New York classics | Italian sunglasses with the arrow hinge | Relaxed California vintage |
| Icon models | Gregory Peck, O’Malley, N.06 | Lemtosh, Miltzen | 714, 649 | Hampton, Kinney |
| Ownership | EssilorLuxottica | Moscot family | EssilorLuxottica | Independent |
| Typical price | About $300 to $600 | About $300 to $450 | About $250 to $500 | About $300 to $500 |
Oliver Peoples vs Moscot
This is the most common comparison. Oliver Peoples opened its first boutique on Sunset Boulevard in 1987, starting with vintage frames and then designing its own. Moscot began in 1915 when Hyman Moscot sold eyeglasses from a pushcart on New York's Lower East Side, and the family still runs it today.
The difference shows in the style. Moscot frames, like the Lemtosh, are thick, round-edged and unmistakably New York. Oliver Peoples frames are slimmer and more refined, with small details like custom hardware, keyhole bridges and fine metal accents. If you want a bold, intellectual look, choose Moscot. If you want something more polished, choose Oliver Peoples.
Oliver Peoples vs Persol
Persol is the Italian option. Founded in Turin in 1917, it's famous for its silver arrow hinge and for the folding 714 that Steve McQueen made iconic. Persol is strongest in sunglasses, especially acetate styles with glass lenses. Oliver Peoples is stronger in optical frames and has a softer, more Californian look. Both are now owned by EssilorLuxottica.
Oliver Peoples vs Garrett Leight
These two share a family. Garrett Leight is the son of Oliver Peoples co-founder Larry Leight, and he started his own brand in Venice, California, in 2010. Garrett Leight feels more relaxed and beachy; Oliver Peoples feels more tailored. If you like Oliver Peoples but want something more casual and independent, Garrett Leight is the natural alternative.
Which Should You Choose?
- Oliver Peoples: refined vintage style and strong optical frames.
- Moscot: a chunky, classic New York look.
- Persol: Italian sunglasses with a famous hinge.
- Garrett Leight: relaxed California vintage.
Shop Oliver Peoples at My Eye Gems
We carry Oliver Peoples optical frames and sunglasses, all available with prescription lenses. Popular picks include the N.06 sunglasses, the 1985C sunglasses, the Riley-R eyeglasses and the TK-11 eyeglasses.
Ready to step up from Oliver Peoples? See brands like Jacques Marie Mage for the next tier of luxury eyewear.
FAQ
Is Oliver Peoples better than Moscot?
It depends on your style. Oliver Peoples is more refined and detailed; Moscot is bolder and more classic New York. Prices are similar.
Who owns Oliver Peoples?
Oliver Peoples is part of EssilorLuxottica, which also owns Persol. Moscot is family-owned, and Garrett Leight is independent.
Can I get Oliver Peoples frames with my prescription?
Yes. Every Oliver Peoples frame at My Eye Gems can be made with prescription lenses.
