In the 1970s, Linda Rae Tepper and Steve M. Abrams opened the antique shop "The Ruby Slippers" in Manhattan.

Captivated by the "ARNEL" and "F.D.R." models, which were the flagship products of Tart Optical Co. and sold as deadstock, they eventually commissioned Tart Optical Co. to manufacture their own frames.

Their passion led to the birth of "Shady Character" through manufacturing by Tart Optical Co.

Therefore, many "Shady Character" frames are inspired by Tart Optical Co. frames.

Re-released in 2021 under a new management, the brand direction is handled by Tommy O'Gara, who has designed numerous eyewear for both domestic and international brands, and the creative direction by American artist Michael Carney. Together, they have reimagined and revived "Shady Character," a brand popular in the 70s and 80s, with their own creative ideas.