Garrett Leight is the founder and designer of his namesake label Garrett Leight California Optical. Earlier this month Leight – one of our favorite eyewear designers – went bi-coastal when he announced a collaboration with the W Hotel South Beach on a limited edition pair of unisex sunglasses.

The frames feature crystal acetate and a cool blue lens, inspired by a palette of blue skies and crystalline waters that are nod to both coasts. With 100% UV protection, they are the perfect companion for a poolside hang at the W Hotel. 

Of the property, he says, “I think the W Miami has a great location. It has a solid pool scene and it’s in the middle of everything. The rooms have great views, especially on the higher floors and there’s also a dive bar [Free Spirits] across the way that I love.”  

While Leight is a California-native, he’s visited Miami often enough to have a favorite spot. “I know its cliché, but my favorite Miami spot is Versailles. I’m a foodie through and through and their Cubano [sandwich] is better than everywhere else. I could eat breakfast, lunch, and dinner there.”

Though Leight won’t be expanding his brand to the Magic City quite yet – he has opened two stores this year – he thinks a beach bungalow could be a great idea. What would he put in it? “Me, sunglasses, a music box of some sort, and someone else to sell [the sunglasses] so I could enjoy myself.” 

Three Questions with Garrett Leight

Three things you associate with Miami?

Art Deco Vibes, University of Miami 90’s Football program, and Cocaine

Favorite Miami character, fictional or real?

Pat Riley

What song do you feel captures the Miami spirt?

The Miami Vice song. And 90’s music – basically anything super synthesized and intense.

Though the designer has collaborated with brands Mark McNairy, Want Les Essentiels, and Clare Viver, the collaboration with a hotel is a first for the designer. Only a 100 pairs of the sunglasses were produced, once they are gone, they are gone for good. They are available at the W Store and at Garrett Leight stores and online.  

Garret Leight California Optical