BEHIND THE STITCH: ALANI
June 21, 2024
No Comments
As Oakley marks its 50th anniversary in 2025, the brand known for fusing athletic utility with audacious design has taken a bold leap into its legacy with the release of the Ellipse sunglasses–a striking tribute to its half-century journey. Officially launched in June 2025, the Ellipse isn’t merely a commemorative product; it’s a sculptural and functional homage to the brand’s DNA. In a daring twist, Oakley has fashioned the frame itself into the literal shape of its iconic elliptical “O” logo, blending nostalgic reverence with boundary-pushing design. This is Oakley at its most conceptual, where form, function, and symbolism converge into wearable art.
The Ellipse pulls inspiration from the 1990s–the era when Oakley began to shift cultural perceptions of performance eyewear, yet its futuristic contours and sleek silhouette mark it as a product of tomorrow. Using Oakley’s advanced Physiomorphic Geometry, the frames are designed to wrap around the face for optimal field of view, aerodynamic appeal, and ergonomic comfort. The use of Unobtainium earsocks and interchangeable nosepieces ensures the sunglasses stay securely in place even during intense activity or sweat, underlining Oakley’s commitment to both high performance and style.
Beyond aesthetics and fit, the Ellipse delivers cutting-edge lens technology that has become a hallmark of Oakley’s modern offerings. Outfitted with Prizm lenses, the eyewear heightens color and contrast to improve visibility in varied environments, whether you’re hitting the trails, the track, or just city streets. The lenses are also made from Plutonite, a proprietary Oakley material that blocks 100% of UVA, UVB, and UVC rays, while filtering harmful blue light up to 400 nanometers. It’s a lens system designed not just for clarity, but for uncompromised protection.
The Ellipse collection comes in seven vibrant and versatile colorways, offering something for both minimalist stylists and those who prefer a bolder look. However, the crown jewel of the lineup is the limited-edition “50 Midas Fleck”, which features a luxurious gold-flecked frame and Prizm 24K lenses. This premium variant is Oakley’s ultimate nod to collectors and loyalists–a piece that doesn’t just commemorate the past but makes a loud, golden statement about the brand’s ongoing relevance and edge.
More than just a standalone release, the Ellipse sunglasses are part of a broader campaign celebrating Oakley’s golden jubilee. The 50th anniversary collection also includes reimagined classics like the 1980s Eyeshade, as well as special releases of motocross essentials like the Airbrake goggles, now outfitted with 24K Iridium lenses. Rumors even swirl about a modern revival of the mythical Medusa helmet-goggle system, a cult favorite among Oakley’s most die-hard fans. In this way, the Ellipse acts as a centerpiece to a yearlong homage to Oakley’s culture-defining legacy.
Founded in 1975 by Jim Jannard with just $300 and a rebellious spirit, Oakley has since evolved into a global powerhouse in sport and fashion eyewear. From its humble beginnings selling motorcycle grips out of a garage to becoming a brand with over 600 design patents, Oakley has consistently challenged conventional ideas of performance, optics, and design. The Ellipse is the physical embodiment of that spirit–a bold ellipse that connects the past, present, and future.
Currently available via Oakley’s official website, flagship locations, and select retail partners worldwide, the Ellipse sunglasses are expected to fall within Oakley’s premium performance pricing tier. While official pricing hasn’t been disclosed at launch, early demand for the limited-edition Midas Fleck model signals that this is more than just a product drop–it’s a cultural moment.
In the world of eyewear, few brands dare to reimagine their identity so literally. But Oakley’s 50th year proves it’s still willing to take the kinds of creative risks that made it legendary in the first place. With the Ellipse, Oakley hasn’t just released a new pair of sunglasses–it’s framed the future.
