Oakley: Dedicated To Innovations
By: Mari Davis
(Photo below: From the Oakley Fall 2005 collection.
Photo by Javier Mateo

NEW YORK, Feb 6, 2005/ FW/ --- It started in 1975 when Jim Jannard designed and created a motocross handgrip with a unique orbicular design, engineered to fit a competitor's closed hand.

It was destined to be the first of approximately 550 patents and 875 trademarks that the company, which would eventually be called OAKLEY, would own.

For the next 30 years, Oakley, whose logo is an O shaped like a football will become an icon for risk takers who define the rebellion of a generation.

Extending beyond its roots as a pioneer in sunglass innovations, the company is recognized today as one of the most coveted brands of action sports.

Today, the ellipse icon and everything it represents is one of the most sought after lifestyle brands in the world.

This week in New York, during the Fall 2005 fashion season, Oakley once again demonstrated its forward thinking by presenting its first ever runway show to launch the new line of womenswear, which marked the company’s entrance to the world of fashion.

Fall 2005 (Photo by Javier Mateo)