Statement Sunnies with Cult Status: Le Specs’ Fashion-Forward Edge
Origins and Founding
Le Specs was born in Sydney, Australia in 1979 and re-launched in 2006 by Hamish Tame, who reimagined the brand with fashion insiders and pop culture in mind. Known for directional, affordable sunglasses that rival high-end designer styles, Le Specs quickly became a celebrity go-to for statement shades without the markup.
Ownership and Leadership
Le Specs is part of the Australian eyewear company Sunshades Eyewear. Creative director Hamish Tame continues to lead the brand’s bold, style-conscious direction, collaborating with fashion designers and expanding into optical and blue light frames.
Aesthetic and Design Language
Le Specs’ aesthetic is fashion-forward, bold, and always a bit cheeky. The brand specializes in exaggerated cat-eyes, micro-shields, thick acetate frames, and gender-neutral designs that feel pulled straight from an editorial. The colors are punchy (black, ivory, tortoise, cherry red), and silhouettes are reinterpreted each season with a mix of vintage nostalgia and streetwear attitude. Despite the high-impact look, all styles are affordably priced and UV-protective.
Notable Pieces
- The Last Lolita – A sharp cat-eye popularized by celebrities, designed in collaboration with Adam Selman.
- Outta Love – Ultra-slim ‘90s-inspired sunglasses worn low on the nose.
- Bandwagon Frame – A chunky acetate round frame that blends retro and modern effortlessly.
- Fire Starter – Futuristic shield-style sunglasses with mirrored lenses and performance appeal.
- Le Specs Luxe Line – A higher-end capsule with elevated finishes and sleek architectural design.
Famous Fans
- Gigi Hadid
- Rihanna
- Kendall Jenner
- Bella Hadid
- Zoë Kravitz
The Future
Le Specs continues to expand its global dominance with new designer collabs, sustainable materials, and bold reissues of cult-favorite styles. Whether on vacation or front row, the brand’s blend of accessibility and fashion attitude keeps it top of mind for statement eyewear lovers everywhere.
