Why Aviator Sunglasses are a Timeless Fashion Staple

Fashionable Woman Wearing Aviator Sunglasses

Whether driving, walking, or relaxing on the beach, sunglasses are essential for protecting your eyes from the sun. According to Invision, around 71% of adults regularly wear sunglasses. While there are countless classic sunglasses styles, you can't discount the popularity of aviator sunglasses

Aviator sunglasses have been around for decades. This blog will talk about the history of aviator sunglasses and how they became a staple in the protective eyewear industry. 

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For an in-depth look at aviator sunglasses, read this article: All Things Aviator Sunglasses: Types, History, Facts & FAQs

The Origins of Aviator Sunglasses 

When considering aviator sunglasses, you may think of Tom Cruise and other Hollywood movie stars, but the sunglasses got their start in the military. This type of eyewear can be traced back to the Victorian era. Aviator sunglasses were created to help cyclists. 

In 1935, the US Army Air Corps worked with the American Optical to create the iconic sunglasses we know today. Aviator sunglasses were intended to be worn under pilots' headgear. Some of the ways aviators helped pilots fly planes include:

  • Thin steel, titanium, or monel frames

  • Slightly convex lenses instead of being flat 

  • Dark and reflective lenses 

What's great about convex lenses is that they cover your eye's entire field of vision. This reduces the amount of light that enters your eye from any angle. 

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Civilian Interest in Aviator Sunglasses

American Male Model Wearing V Shades Aviator Sunglasses

Photo by Trevor Schornack, Global Systems 1 Management

Civilians were able to purchase aviator sunglasses before World War Two, but it wasn't until after that period that they gained commercial popularity. Bausch & Lomb first sold aviator sunglasses in stores in 1937. They were patented as the "Ray-Ban Aviator" in 1939. 

General Douglas MacArthur launched the sunglasses into the public eye during WWII when he wore them as he landed on the beach in the Philippines. Photos were taken of General MacArthur and they spread like wildfire during the war. Pictures of him, wearing the iconic sunglasses, became the defining images of the war. 

Versatile Design Features

Aviator Sunglasses by V SHADES

‘Night’ Aviator Sunglasses by V SHADES

One of the best things about aviator sunglasses is their simple yet versatile design. While they started as being made for those in the military, they quickly became a symbol of glamor and luxury. 

The main components of aviator sunglasses stayed the same as the eyewear evolved over the years. The key elements of these sunglasses include:

  • Teardrop shaped lenses

  • A double bridge that adds a distinctive style and strength

What people love about the classic metal frame and lens shape is that they're flattering on any face shape. The adaptability of aviator sunglasses allows them to be dressed down or up with ease. Some of the outfits you can pair your sunglasses with include:

  • Jeans and a T-shirt for a casual vibe

  • A tailored suit for a professional look

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Protect Your Eyes in Style With V Shades

If you're looking for timeless eyewear trends, you can't go wrong with aviator sunglasses. Their ability to be paired with a casual or dressed-up outfit makes them one of the best sunglasses to wear. 

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At V SHADES, our goal is to provide high-quality eyewear options to our customers. We carry aviator sunglasses in various metal and lens colors that'll match any outfit you own. Shop our selection of aviators and be sure to follow us on social media @buyvshades so you can tag us in your trendy eyewear looks!

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