This month, we’re excited to feature, Jeffrey Aborn, a driving force behind Out East Eyewear, a brand rooted in effortless cool, coastal ease, and understated confidence. Inspired by long days by the water, weekend escapes, and a laid-back approach to style, Out East has quickly become a go-to for sunglasses that feel both modern and timeless.
We caught up with him to learn more about the inspiration behind the brand, his journey to working with Out East, and the pieces he’s reaching for this season.
Where and when was the brand founded?
Conceptualized at Harvard Business School, incorporated and launched in 2020.
What was the catalyst in starting the brand?
The catalyst for starting the brand was to solve the problem of lost and broken, expensive sunglasses. After conceptualizing the replacement program, we landed on “Out East” as a localized brand identity after years of summering in the Hamptons.
Was there a design/fashion muse you can tell us about?
The original design strategy was consensus based and culminated in 16 unique unisex styles. Overseeing a rapidly growing consumer brand has brought me into contact with a vast multitude of retailers and customers alike, and as such I have needed to immerse myself in all aspects of the company’s operations and embed what I observe and learn. With this, I have personally designed a number of styles in the 2026 Collection (e.g. Dorset, Seaview, Whitney) that fit what I believed matched the company’s design aesthetic and what our clientele sought in the new season!
What is the dream for the brand in the next 5 years?
While we have done well to spread across the East Coast and now Southern California, my dream is to fully expand Out East to across the entire USA.
Do you have a favorite collection or piece to date?
My favorite design is the Rosewood 18k with its matching acetate arm/lens colors.
What’s your favorite thing in your closet right now?
Converse/Moncler Collab Sneakers
Is there one unforgettable defining time in your career that changed you?
After many years in NYC buy side leveraged finance, going to work for a small startup was an eye-opening work experience where I discovered I wanted to create and build something from scratch that I truly cared about.
Who is your style icon?
JFK
If you could be from any other decade (or era), which would it be?
1920s
If you could have any three classic icons over for dinner – who would they be?
John Lennon, Kurt Cobain, Audry Hepburn (awkward combo?)
QUICKFIRE:
Who would play you in the movie of your life? Christian Bale
Sign: Aquarius
Sweet or salty: Salty
Coffee or Tea: Coffee
Favorite Classic Movie: The Great Escape
Never without: A shoehorn
Color you couldn’t live without: Blue
Your favorite accessory: Sunglasses, of course!
Your favorite wardrobe piece: Custom designed and fitted dark blue suit
Favorite city: New York, NY
Last trip you were on: Long trip? Road trip down to Key West and back. Short trip? Virginia
Last book you read: Carthage Must Be Destroyed
Favorite Restaurant: Wolfgang’s
I’m deeply grateful for: My family
The world needs more: Empathy
