The right sunglasses are a style enhancer and play a pivotal role in providing crucial protection against the sun's harmful UV rays. This fusion of style and protection elevates them beyond ordinary fashion choices, making selecting the timeless pair of sunglasses essential for both sun protection and a fashionable look.
NASA
In this article, we’ll delve into the iconic styles of aviators, the vintage allure of Saratoga, and a wide array of classic sunglasses designs. These styles are celebrated for their ability to complement various face shapes ensuring that everyone benefits from their timeless appeal. As we explore, we'll uncover how these classic designs have transcended fashion trends, maintaining their status as indispensable accessories in any wardrobe.
Why Do Some Sunglasses Never Fade?
Sunglasses, like any fashion accessory, fluctuate in popularity, but certain styles have remained timeless due to their classic design and historical significance. These enduring sunglasses styles, such as aviators, wayfarers, and cat-eye frames, transcend fleeting trends due to their strong association with iconic figures and moments in fashion history.
For instance, aviators were originally designed for pilots but gained widespread appeal due to their practicality and association with a sense of adventure. Aviator sunglasses, particularly those with an oversized aviator shape or mirrored lens sunglasses, have become a staple for fashion insiders, offering a timeless design that never seems to go out of style.
On the other hand, styles that don't stay on trend often lack this deep-rooted connection with cultural history or universal appeal. They might cater to specific fashion moments or niches but fail to adapt to the evolving tastes and diverse needs of a broader audience. Hence, while trends come and go, classic styles remain steadfast in the world of fashion, offering timeless elegance, wide appeal, and a nod to the enduring legacy of style icons like Audrey Hepburn and JFK.
Top 7 Iconic Sunglass Styles from AO Eyewear
In the realm of eyewear, certain styles have become iconic, standing the test of time with their timeless design and enduring appeal. Our team at AO Eyewear has put together a collection that encapsulates these classic styles, each offering a unique blend of trend and functionality. Here are the top 7 iconic styles.
1. Original Pilot Sunglasses: The Quintessential Aviator
The Original Pilot has been an icon of style and functionality since its introduction to U.S. military pilots in 1958. Its squared aviator shape, complemented by sturdy metal frames and bayonet temples, is ideal for a wide range of face shapes. These sunglasses not only offer polarized lenses for superior glare reduction but also provide unmatched ultraviolet protection, making them a top choice for both fashion and practicality.
2. Saratoga Sunglasses: A Blend of Classic and Modern
The Saratoga frames stand out with their unique square shape, similar to the Wayfarer, offering a contemporary twist on a classic design. These stylish sunglasses are versatile enough for everyday wear while still providing excellent sunray protection with a touch of vintage elegance.
3. Oxford Sunglasses: Retro Round Perfection
Echoing the timeless round sunglasses styles, Oxford shadows bring vintage vibes into the modern day. These frames are ideal for those who love a touch of nostalgia. They offer a comfortable fit and effective UVA and UVB protection, making them a sophisticated choice for any outfit.
4. Hazemaster Sunglasses: A Statement of Boldness 
The General, redefines the aviator style with a more pronounced and bold frame, commanding attention. Its double bridge design adds a touch of ruggedness, appealing to those who prefer a stronger fashion statement while ensuring optimal eye safety.
5. Times Sunglasses: Sleek for the Modern Era
The Times sunglasses represent a sleek, contemporary approach to eyewear. No wonder they’ve been the choice of TV and film productions more than half a century after they were first introduced. Lightweight and versatile, they're ideal for a range of settings, blending seamlessly from casual to formal while providing essential sun protection.
6. Flynn Sunglasses: For the Fashion-Forward
The Flynn has a modern and oversized design that’s perfect for those who want to make a bold trendy statement. These stylish frames aren’t just about looks — they also offer substantial protection from the sun's rays with a stylish, handcrafted acetate insert that acts as a side shield.
7. Lucinda Sunglasses: Feminine and Chic
Inspired by the classic cat-eye design, the Lucinda adds a touch of femininity and elegance to your style. These frames have distinctive upswept angles that are universally flattering and provide both style and sun protection.
Each of these iconic sunglass styles from AO Eyewear offers a unique combination of classic style aesthetics and modern functionality to ensure that you don't just wear sunglasses, but wear a piece of history fashioned for today's world.
How to Choose the Right Pair of Sunglasses
Choosing the perfect pair of sunglasses involves a few key considerations:
1. Face Shape Determines Frame Shape
Choosing the right glasses for your face shape is one of the important decisions when purchasing glasses.
Here’s a quick rundown of styling tips:
- Round faces: Best complemented by square or rectangular frames, which provide a contrasting effect to the face's natural curves. Oversized sunglasses can also be a bold choice for round faces.
- Oval faces: Highly versatile, they can pull off almost any sunglass style, including classic aviators or trendy round frames.
- Square faces: Benefit from round or oval sunglasses to soften their angular features. Mirrored lens sunglasses or cat eye sunglasses can add a sleek look.
- Heart-shaped faces: Look great with aviator sunglasses or cat-eye styles, balancing the wider forehead with the narrower chin.
- Diamond faces: Can pull off oval or rimless styles, which soften strong cheekbones and highlight delicate features.
2. Size Proportion
The right fit is important for both comfort and style. Oversized frames can dominate your facial features and make them look disproportionate, while too small frames may not provide adequate protection from the sun or visual balance. Measure the width of your face to ensure the frames align nicely with the widest part of your face to ensure a harmonious and balanced look. Use our Virtual Try-On feature while shopping to ensure you’re getting a stunning look.
3. Lens Quality and Functionality
The quality and functionality of the lenses in your sunglasses play a critical role in eye protection and visual clarity.
Here are some considerations when you shop for sun lenses:
- UV protection:
- Essential for shielding your eyes from the sun's harmful ultraviolet rays.
- Look for sunglasses, that provide 100% UV protection to prevent eye problems caused by prolonged exposure to UV rays. You can rest assured that all AO sunglasses meet this standard.
- Ensures comprehensive sun protection, which is crucial for maintaining long-term eye health.
- Polarized lenses:
- Highly beneficial for minimizing glare from reflective surfaces like water, snow, and glass.
- Ideal for enhancing visibility and safety during outdoor activities, driving, or participating in water sports.
- Reduce eye strain and improve comfort in bright conditions.
- Mirrored lenses:
- Feature a reflective coating that offers an additional layer of protection against glare and intense light.
- Popular for their fashionable look and the privacy they offer, as they conceal your eyes from view.
- Useful in highly sunny environments and provides extra comfort by reducing glare in intense sunlight.
- When choosing your next pair of sunglasses, consider these lens features to ensure optimal eye protection and comfort, whether you’re engaging in sports, driving, or simply enjoying a sunny day outdoors.
4. Frame Material
Selecting the right sunglasses frames involves careful consideration of both shape and material as this will impact both durability and comfort:
- Acetate frames:
- Flexibility: Ideal for those seeking a comfortable, adaptable fit.
- Weight: Generally heavier, suitable for those who prefer a solid feel.
- Suitability: Best for everyday use and running errands, where comfort is key.
- Metal alloys:
- Strength: Offers a durable and sturdy frame that’s ideal for long-lasting use.
- Classic look: Often features a thin metal rim for a sleek and timeless style.
- Lightweight feel: Perfect for all-day wear without causing discomfort, especially on the nose bridge with adjustable nose pads.
When choosing sunglasses frames, it’s important to balance the style with practical aspects like weight and comfort. This ensures your sunglasses aren’t just a fashion statement but also a practical accessory for daily activities.
5. Lifestyle and Personal Style
Your sunglasses should be an extension of your personal style and cater to your lifestyle needs. For a sporty lifestyle, look for durable and secure frames. If you're fashion-forward, explore the latest trends and unique designs. Minimalistic styles are perfect for a sleek and understated look. Matching your sunglasses to your personal style and everyday activities ensures they're not just an accessory but a necessary and enjoyable part of your daily wearing.
By considering these factors, you can find the perfect pair of sunglasses that offers style, protection, and comfort.
Select an Iconic Pair of Sunglasses with American Optical Eyewear
Finding the perfect pair of sunglasses is about blending style with functionality. Classic sunglasses styles are timeless choices that cater to all face shapes and preferences. Whether you're looking for polarized sunglasses for enhanced vision clarity or a stylish pair to complete your outfit, AO Eyewear is the perfect match.
Remember, choosing the right pair of sunglasses isn’t just about sun protection — it's about making a statement with a timeless design that will never go out of style.