The Aviator Sunglass Trend

MODERN AND CLASSIC AVIATOR STYLES FOR SUMMER

When it comes to sunglasses, everyone is wearing aviators this year. With glamorous gradient lenses and embellished frames back in style, Aviator Sunglass is on-trend.

Since their initial launch in 1937 by sunglass giant Ray-Ban, the classic aviator is still going strong, but current styles vary slightly this season. Popular with celebrities such as Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie, Kate Moss, and Victoria Beckham, these classic shades are now available in embellished versions, a ’70s retro look, or futuristic plastic frames. Think Tom Cruise in Top Gun and Farah Fawcett in Charlie’s Angels: retro metal is once again hip and hot.

Favored by the Hollywood set, from Marilyn Monroe to Madonna, Ray-Ban sunglasses are the best-selling (and probably the most recognized) eyewear in the world, with brands like the Aviator and Wayfarer, Warrior, and Predator.

THE HISTORY OF AVIATOR SUNGLASSES

First designed by Ray-Ban in 1937, Aviators were first worn by U.S. army pilots, and that is how they got their name. Later they were spotlighted on the movie screen by Tom Cruise and James Dean, and today more and more women are wearing these iconic sunglasses.

Aviators are characterized by their reflective drop-shaped and distinctive double-bridge lenses, which are two or three times the area of the eye. The shape and size of the lenses prevent most of the light from entering the eye, no matter the angle. Initially, the design was based on the flying goggles which Ray-Ban was selling to the Navy and the military. Aviators are also popular with North American police forces due to their extensive eye protection and reduction in glare.

HOW TO WEAR AVIATORS

Aviators are a good investment as they remain timeless. Classic sunglass styles of this type rarely go through a significant overhaul like other areas of fashion, so they will transcend seasons.

However, there are slightly new twists on the classic frame every year, whether it’s iconic Ray-Bans or other designer labels. This year there are sunglasses with different embellishments, elegant colored drop-lenses, and different flirty and retro plastic frames.

Aviator sunglasses are ideal for everyday wear as they can make a feminine frock look tougher or provide a street look with a bomber jacket and jeans. Fashionising.com suggests breaking with convention and going for a unisex style or a style intended for the opposite sex, which makes a very individual fashion statement.

OTHER BRANDS

In addition to Ray-Bans, other well-known designers such as Burberry, Dolce & Gabanna, Gucci, and Prada have their own branded versions. One of the most stylish for 2008 is the large Burberry Retro Aviator 3020, with a thick arm frame. For something a little more delicate, Prada’s 56IS or 65IS with diamante studs along the arms.

One of the hottest runways looks at the moment, being promoted heavily by online stores such as Net-a-Porter and Asos, is Matthew Williamson’s oversized aviators. According to Net-a-Porter, “these oversized and super-chic classic aviators will last for summers to come.” To get an idea of the many aviator styles available and which best suit your face shape, dedicated online sites like SunglassHut offer a wide selection of designer brands and style advice.

SUNGLASSES FOR TEENS

TRENDY SHADES FOR THE VERY STYLISH

Looking to sport some trendy shades this upcoming season? Here is a guide to the most stylish sunglasses this year and how to get them.

Years ago, Jennifer Lopez made metallic framed classic aviator sunglasses all the range by bedazzling the bottom corner with a sparkly heart. Another classic style of shades is getting a makeover, and it’s on its way to being all the rage in the new year. The plastic framed medium-sized Ray-Bans are making a comeback in a big way.

The sunglasses are reminiscent of the ’60s when music artists donned these shades, they also made a comeback in the ’80s and ’90s, and technically they have never really gone out of style. However, they are re-debuting, keeping the young in mind by coming in bright neon colors and various sizes.

The array of super hot colors like the trendy turquoise, red hot red, or retro tortoiseshell means there is a shade for everyone. The price isn’t too bad compared to the typical $300 price tag of other designer glasses; they come in at around $100 to $250 (for particular edition styles).

BUYING THE SUNGLASSES

However, not every teen can afford $100 sunglasses. With every hot trend, stores will carry similar shades in a more extensive variety of colors at a more affordable price, usually clocking in at around 20 bucks. That will erase the fear of crushing your expensive sunglasses by leaving them on a chair that your friend decides to unknowingly take a seat on. If you hit the trendy fashion street in your city, not the upscale street but the one where the fashion world takes inspiration, you can find these shades. If you have patience, this fashion trend should soon trickle into your local mall.

Another way to avoid shelling out 100 bucks for these hot shades is to scavenge. Something happened when Tom Cruise wore Ray-Bans as he slid across his living room floor in tighty whities and a white collared shirt. The 1983 flick Risky Business made the black plastic Ray-Bans a hit with teens everywhere. This means that at your local thrift store or, better yet, your basement/attic, there may be a pair of Ray-Bans or ’80s knockoff versions of the iconic shades hiding.

STYLE GUIDE

Almost anyone can pull off these sunglasses because, in truth, they look a bit quirky on every face. Color is another story; adventurous people can pull off any color they like, but if you want something that will go with anything and everything, stick to the classic black or tortoiseshell.

They do not offer the best sun protection because they don’t fit in a curve close to the face. Indeed they sit farther away, allowing the sun to come in from the sides. There is an advantage to this because they do not curve, and any prescription can be put into the lens, which isn’t possible with a curved sunglass lens. Also, the frame style is excellent for driving since the sides of the shades sit high and do not block side vision, allowing for quick checks of your blind spots when driving.

Whether you pick up a pair of named brand shades or their $20 counterparts, to be sure you’ll be on trend this upcoming season, remember two things: make sure they’re plastic and in a fabulous color.