Eyewear's Enduring Style

Eyewear has always been more than just a tool for vision correction; it's a powerful statement of style, personality, and even rebellion. From Hollywood's golden age to today's digital innovators, certain frames have transcended mere function to become cultural icons, profoundly influencing fashion trends across decades. 

The Fifties: Glamour, Intellect, and Rebellion

Cat-Eye Glasses, with their upswept outer edges, became a symbol of glamorous femininity, famously worn by Hollywood stars like Marilyn Monroe in "How to Marry a Millionaire" 

Browline Glasses, emphasizing the brow with a bold upper frame, exuded intelligence and sophistication, becoming a signature for figures like Malcolm X.

Wayfarer, introduced by Ray-Ban in 1952. Its thick, trapezoidal frames quickly became synonymous with cool rebellion, immortalized by James Dean and worn by Audrey Hepburn, cementing its status as a classic unisex design. 

Horn rim square, Buddy Holly, with his distinctive horn-rimmed square glasses, also defined an era of rock 'n' roll.

The Sixties: Counterculture and Chic Grandeur 

Small, round wire-frame glasses, John Lennon made this small round shape often called "teashades," an iconic symbol of counterculture and intellectualism. 

Oversized sunglasses,  Jackie Kennedy Onassis wore these and became known for unparalleled chic sophistication. 

Clear, translucent frames Andy Warhol, ever the artist, chose this distinctive look as part of his unique look.

Seventies & Eighties: Boldness & Beyond

Extravagant and eclectic, often oversized and flamboyant glasses, Elton John makes them an extension of his showmanship.

Eighties Power is Bigger is Better A mantra of the 1980s translated directly to eyewear, with very large and chunky plastic frames. Wayfarer experienced a massive resurgence thanks to strategic placements in films like "The Blues Brothers" and "Risky Business"

These iconic designs have consistently influenced fashion trends and continue to be reinterpreted by designers today. Figures like Steve Jobs, with his custom-made rimless round glasses , Bill Gates and his subtle square eyeglasses , Diane Keaton and her bold frames , and Bono with his distinctive tinted glasses, all demonstrate how eyewear remains integral to personal branding and style.

As we look to the future, it begs some interesting questions for designers: How are eyewear styles continuing to evolve in response to changing lifestyles and technological advancements? Are people increasingly thinking of eyewear as a prominent part of their personal style, or do they prefer it to recede and subtly complement their look?  

Next up dear eyewear lover we will explore what your eyewear selection says about you?