It is nearly impossible to scroll through Instagram without encountering the Khaite x Oliver Peoples 1967C sunglasses. Cementing themselves as a definitive staple among the fashion industry’s most influential figures, these oversized frames have quickly become a regular fixture on the feeds of style icons such as Alexa Chung, Elsa Hosk, and Charli XCX. Their ubiquitous presence across social media and street style roundups is precisely what drove a broader cultural obsession with oversized, bug-eye eyewear.
Yet, this widespread "it-girl" approval comes with a predictable drawback. Due to overwhelming demand, the 1967C style spends more time on backorder than it does readily available on shelves. While shoppers can certainly add their names to the digital waitlist and exercise patience, urgency often wins out—particularly for those facing impending beach vacations, sunny getaways, or an immediate wardrobe refresh. Faced with a perpetual backorder and a desire to secure a piece of the coveted collaboration without delay, exploring alternative silhouettes from the same lineup yields surprising discoveries.
Delving into the broader collection reveals a selection of underrated options that rival, and in some cases surpass, the allure of the elusive 1967Cs. For fashion enthusiasts desperate for a pair of Khaite x Oliver Peoples sunglasses who prefer to bypass the waitlist, examining the remaining covetable alternatives offers an immediate solution.
But First, What Is It About The 1967Cs?
The current contemporary landscape is defined by the absolute supremacy of bug-eye sunglasses, and the 1967Cs sit securely at the apex of the trend for their sheer scale and effortless cool factor. Slipping them on immediately delivers a profound sense of coverage and ocular privacy. They extend downward to cover a significant portion of the face vertically while wrapping closely and securely around the sides.
Part of their enduring appeal lies in how successfully they bridge opposing aesthetic categories, feeling simultaneously sporty and impeccably stylish. This versatility makes them an ideal, trusted companion for everything from high-fashion city strolls to concealing the aftereffects of hungover Sundays. Despite their impressive physical dimensions, the weight remains surprisingly light, supported by frames that maintain a sleek, uninterrupted profile throughout.
Equally Oversized: The 1969C
For shoppers searching for an alternative that matches the vertical coverage of the viral favorites, the 1969Cs demand a closer examination. While they sit slightly further away from the face along the temples compared to their tighter-wrapping counterparts, their front-facing height is virtually identical.
These frames strike a slightly more feminine chord than the 1967Cs, offering a softer aesthetic without sacrificing presence. Among the colorways, the rich burgundy version stands out as an exceptional choice for those looking to inject a subtle yet sophisticated wash of color into their accessory rotation, proving that oversized eyewear can be both bold and nuanced.
A Cat-Eye Twist: The 1963C
Traditionally, individuals who lean away from conventional silhouettes might dismiss cat-eye sunglasses entirely. However, the 1963C style proves capable of shifting even the most resistant perspectives. The design introduces a dramatic flair reminiscent of 1980s glamour, yet it remains firmly anchored in the present day through a modern sense of coolness underscored by Khaite’s signature gold hardware detailing meticulously integrated along the temples.
Beyond their visual impact, the comfort factor remains a standout characteristic. They rest on the face with a remarkable lightness, positioning themselves securely in that coveted category of accessories where the wearer entirely forgets they even have sunglasses on.
The 1965C: Channeling Runway Drama and Diva Energy
Making a memorable appearance on the Fall/Winter 2026 runway, the 1965C frames lean heavily into the collection’s inherent moodiness. Slipping them on instantly evokes comparisons to high-drama television personalities, channeling the bold, unapologetic energy associated with figures like Lisa Barlow or Lisa Rinna.
These frames are engineered for the wearer looking to summon their inner diva. While they may not possess the minimalist sleekness of the 1967Cs, they more than compensate by delivering an unmistakable don’t-mess-with-me attitude. For a certain segment of fashion enthusiasts, that uncompromising energy is precisely the point.
Sporty & Sleek: The 1974C
Initial impressions of specialized eyewear can sometimes be deceiving, as was the case when first opening the package containing the 1974C. Yet, any initial hesitation vanishes the moment the frames settle onto the face.
The style imparts an immediate athletic edge, inspiring the fleeting sensation of being ready to race in Formula 1 or swiftly navigate high-altitude ski slopes—a much-appreciated psychological confidence boost, regardless of one’s actual athletic capabilities in those arenas. They establish themselves as a more pronounced statement piece than the 1967Cs, executing that heightened visibility with a refined design execution that elevates the entire ensemble.
