Vintage sunglasses: a look back at iconic models

Oversized sunglasses worn by Audrey Hepburn and John Lennon’s round glasses—there’s no doubt about it, we are truly in the vintage era! Nostalgic, historical and full of character, vintage sunglasses are highly attractive to many opticians who constantly try to bring them back into fashion.

It is therefore time to travel through time to discover the models that once were, and will forever remain, the stars of their era.

The 1930s: sunglasses take off

No, the history of sunglasses did not begin in the Middle Ages. It was in the 1930s that they truly became a fashion accessory. In a period marked by many difficulties, cinema saw actors become real stars… and so did their glasses!

If we say “Aviator”, you’ll probably answer “I know them!”, then mention “Tom Cruise” and likely “Top Gun”. Indeed, it was in the 1980s that this movie brought back into the spotlight this famous 1930s sunglasses model. Iconic and timeless, the Aviator was originally designed to protect military pilots’ eyes from the sun without removing their helmet or oxygen mask. Practical and stylish glasses!

This vintage sunglasses model is often characterized by a double metal bridge, and flat lenses at the nose area. It gives a dynamic look, a mysterious vibe, and a heroic appearance (thanks Hollywood!).

The 1940s: modern and futuristic

A vintage sunglasses model that has made a comeback: the timeless Pantos! Very popular in the artistic and cultural world of the time, it is a 1940s classic. Originally made of plastic, the Pantos was THE modern and innovative frame of its era. Today, it has become widely adopted and can be seen on many faces around the world. Simple, slightly intellectual, it gives a futuristic and modern look to the wearer. Want to try it?

The 1950s: butterfly vibes

Marilyn Monroe, glamour and sparkle—we are entering the 1950s! It was during this period that butterfly sunglasses appeared. Light, feminine, original—everyone fell for them. They are characterized by an elongated shape, both round and oval, creating a lifting effect without surgery (or almost).

With thin or thick frames, Cat Eye are a variation of the butterfly style. A must-have of the 1950s, these vintage sunglasses became part of the dress code of every Instagram user in 2019. Still going strong, it’s time to bring out your cat-eye look ladies!

The 1960s: go big

We want big, we want bold, we want to be seen. Sunglasses in the 1960s continued the oversized aesthetic of the previous era. We see more decorative and increasingly sophisticated designs. Artists created frames with strong geometric shapes and bright colors.

From the cheekbones to above the eyebrows, oversized frames are not just accessories—they become part of the face itself. Think you’ll look like a fly in sunglasses? Maybe revisit “How to Steal a Million”. Audrey Hepburn’s oversized white butterfly glasses are iconic and undeniably stylish (no, not just because she’s a beautiful actress).

The 1970s: peace and love

During this decade, life was all about peace, love and color.

How? Thanks, among other things, to small round sunglasses in pink, yellow, blue… the variations were endless! More bohemian, “daisy” shapes also appeared alongside heart-shaped frames. More love than ever!

For those who wanted to stay more discreet during this period, that was not really an option! The oversize trend was at its peak. More importance was given to shape than color: oversized, pointed, round, elongated… all shapes were in!

The 1980s

Alongside disco, David Bowie and THE Wayfarer, we reach the end of our vintage journey.

Popularized in the 1960s in many films, the Wayfarer model came back into the spotlight in the 1980s. Its plastic frame appeared on the faces of the biggest stars and beloved fictional characters: the Blues Brothers, Jack Nicholson...

No matter your face shape—round, long, or triangular—these vintage sunglasses suit everyone. No excuse not to try the 80s look!

You can find all these shapes in both optical and sunglasses versions. Blue light blocking glasses are also part of the mix!