Birdwell is extremely proud to have teamed up with Los Angeles–based brand Garrett Leight California Optical to create a capsule collection inspired by the unique landscape and culture of Southern California. With graphics designed by local artist John Antoski, an emphasis on subtle colors and classic silhouettes, and a positive environmental message, these six pieces embody all the things that make both Birdwell and Garrett Leight quintessential LA brands. 

At the center of this collaboration is a pair of sunglasses in Garrett Leight’s iconic Troubadour style. Inspired by mid-century style and a certain mop-topped singer-songwriter, we’ve rendered the Troubadour in a transparent champagne-colored acetate with rich green lenses that provide great optical clarity and a dash of cactus-inspired color (they also feature anti-reflective and anti-smudge coatings, making them perfect for a trip to the beach). Details like the water drop shaped plaques at the temples and the engraved metalwork that you can see through the acetate give them even more personality.  

For the first time ever, these Troubadours come in a special case made from 100% vegan cactus leather, one of the main inspirations for this collaboration. It’s better for the environment than a traditional leather case, while still providing great protection and a rich, textured feel in the hand. We couldn’t be prouder for Garrett Leight to debut this new case with our limited edition collaboration.  

Explore the full GLCO x Birdwell Collection here.

Features: Champagne colored cured cellulose acetate with nickel silver core wire, green CR-39 plastic lenses with anti-reflective and oleophobic coatings (to resist smudges and oils), five-barrel hinges with real rivets and water drop shaped plaques, co-branding on inside of right arm, and brand new 100% vegan cactus leather case and custom cleaning cloth. 

Fit: Eye 52mm, Bridge 21mm, Temple 145mm 

Materials: Cured cellulose acetate with nickel silver core wire (Frames); CR-39 plastic with anti-reflective and anti-smudge coatings (Lenses). Case is 100% vegan cactus leather sourced from Mexico. 

Construction: Made by hand in China from Japanese and Italian materials. 

Care: Do not use chemicals on lenses, as that may strip away the special coatings. Avoid laying glasses face down on hard surfaces and clean with provided microfiber cloth to avoid scratching lenses.