Russell Westbrook launches eyewear brand, Westbrook Frames

Russell Westbrook will not be participating in the 2014 FIBA World Cup in Spain, but it seems that he has found something else to keep him busy this summer. Westbrook has launched a new eyewear brand, "Westbrook Frames." We all know how Westbrook is unique with his personal style involving printed shirts, lensless glasses, and crazy outfits. Earlier in the following month, Westbrook announced he was collaborating with Barneys. He has shown increasing interest in the fashion world, and Westbrook Frames is the next step.

Here are excerpts from a Style.com Interview with Russell Westbrook:

How did this project come about?

I wanted to launch my Westbrook brand with something that I'm really interested in and passionate about, which is glasses. Selima [Optique] is one of the best in the game when it comes to eyewear, and this has been a great opportunity to express my creative side.

What was your personal style like as a kid?

Growing up, my mom did a great job of dressing my brother, and me and keeping us up-to-date on all the latest trends-within our means, of course. As I got older, I got the opportunity to buy nicer, better things [laughs], and really expand my personal style. I definitely know what I like and am not afraid to mix and match. I'm known for never wearing the same thing twice. I'm really into print and color, different fabrics and textures-I kind of like it all.

Are your teammates always commenting on your outfits?

My teammates always comment on what I'm wearing. A few guys always want to know where I get my clothes from. Some of them probably think I'm a little bit crazy. Some of them like it. Some of them don't. But I definitely love separating myself with my own style.

Who do you envision wearing Westbrook Frames? Are you hoping to attract more sports fans or fashion folks?

Before I came into making Westbrook Frames and collaborating with Selima, I thought that making frames could be for everyone: for myself, for the people coming out to the games, for the next-door neighbors, and even for the kids. With the fun colorways that I have, I think that everyone can find a pair to help express themselves-especially the guys who wear cool ties, socks, underwear, watches, and other pieces of flair. Glasses can really go across the board, and Selima did a great job with giving me different ideas about making the line unisex. Honestly, I can't wait to see the first person wearing them aside from myself. [laughs] I'm hyped to hopefully start seeing pictures of people in my glasses on Instagram.

Outside of Westbrook Frames, what are your plans for expanding your fashion franchise?

This is definitely the start of the Westbrook brand. I began this adventure with the Barneys line, and am definitely going to continue expanding from there. I'm looking forward to a lot of things coming down the pipeline, so stay posted for more.