Women’s aviator sunglasses are much more than just a chic accessory. Throughout the years, they’ve ingrained themselves in our culture, evolving from a mere piece of protective eyewear to a staple fashion item cherished globally. Charting the history of women’s aviator sunglasses opens up a captivating narrative of design innovation, cultural impact, and fashion trends, allowing us to truly appreciate why these beloved glasses continue to resonate with so many individuals. As we delve into the world of aviator sunglasses, we will also explore an array of popular brands and models and how to choose the perfect pair. Addressing elements including face shape, skin tone, and personal style, we aim to provide a comprehensive guide that will help you select a pair that suits you best.
History of Women’s Aviator Sunglasses
Origins of Women’s Aviator Sunglasses
Aviator sunglasses, originally termed as ‘pilot glasses’, were developed in 1936 by the optical firm Bausch and Lomb to aid pilots. Initially meant for men, they were designed to protect the eyes from harmful UV rays and glare during flights. The design provided broader coverage due to the larger lens area, coupled with a dark lens, usually with a green tint, to reduce eye strain at high altitudes. Despite their purpose catering to men in the aviation sector, women started embracing them, leading them to become known as “women’s aviator sunglasses”.
Culture Transition of Women’s Aviator Sunglasses
During the Second World War, pictures of General Douglas MacArthur sporting aviator glasses became increasingly popular. Famous pictures of him landing on a Philippines beach in 1944 helped catapult aviator sunglasses to fame. Although originally worn by men, women–who had started to be recognized as equals and felt an affinity towards property associated with power and resilience–began to embrace aviator sunglasses. Wearing them was not merely for style––it carried symbolism, signifying the breaking of boundaries and conventional societal norms.
Women’s Aviator Sunglasses in Cinema
The 1960s and 1970s saw aviator sunglasses become a fashion staple. Its popularity soared following the 1980 release of the film “The Blues Brothers”, where characters sported the frames throughout the film, effectively popularizing them.
Mainstream Acceptance and Evolution
Beginning in the 1980s and continuing into the 21st Century, women’s aviator sunglasses evolved from being a military accessory to a fashion must-have enjoyed by all sectors of society. Today, we see a variety of forms of the aviator style, including mirrored, teardrop-shaped, square, oval, and even colored lenses. The frames have strayed from standard metal into plastic and other materials, showing versatility in design and appeal. Dubbed by stylists and fashion influencers as timeless and chic, they often showcase women’s empowerment and strength.
Aviator Sunglasses: A Trendsetter in Women’s Fashion
Aviator sunglasses for women aren’t just eyewear, they’re also a statement of style, empowerment, and independence. These sunglasses have unquestionably become one of the most popular and evergreen styles in the fashion spectrum. Their flexibility and adaptability make them a universal choice for various ages, face types, and unique fashion preferences. Aviator sunglasses for women have indelibly marked their presence, from high-fashion runways to everyday street styles. Not only do they serve the functional purpose of protecting the eyes, but they also let women express their personality and power. The dominance of aviator sunglasses symbolizes the modern woman’s strength and is here to dominate the fashion scene for the foreseeable future.

Popular Brands and Models
The Iconic Legacy of Ray-Ban Aviator Sunglasses
Speaking of women’s aviator sunglasses, one cannot overlook the dominance of Ray-Ban. Its legacy in crafting iconic aviator sunglasses has been unwavering since the 1930s. This esteemed brand caters a variety of aviator styles to accommodate diverse face shapes and individual styles. Their product lineup includes a multitude of lens and frame colors that caters to everyone – from the classic combo of green lenses with gold frames to the modern mirrored or gradient lenses. Investing in quality like this typically runs between $150 to $200 for a pair, faithfully reflecting the timeless allure of Ray-Ban aviators.
Gucci Aviator Sunglasses
Gucci has a reputation for opulence and glamour, and it doesn’t disappoint when it comes to aviator sunglasses. This luxury Italian brand offers styles that often feature distinctive embellishments, like the brand’s signature red and green webbing, or logo detailing on the temples. For a pair of Gucci aviators, you may have to part with around $200 to $400.
Prada Aviator Sunglasses
The Prada brand is synonymous with luxury, sophistication, and style. Their aviator sunglasses often feature innovative and bold designs while maintaining their classic allure. Prada sunglasses often come with features such as polarized lenses and anti-reflective coating. The price for Prada aviators can range from $200 to over $400.
Tom Ford Aviator Sunglasses
Tom Ford is celebrated for creating alluring and contemporary designs. This brand’s aviator sunglasses are often characterized by distinctive features such as the signature T-logo detail on the temples or unique lens shapes. Tom Ford’s aviator sunglasses uphold the brand’s reputation with their high-quality materials and craftsmanship, with prices typically running between $250 and $500.
Michael Kors Aviator Sunglasses
Micheal Kors, an American luxury fashion company, offers a range of sophisticated and stylish aviator sunglasses. Known for its clean lines and modern shapes, the brand’s aviator sunglasses come in traditional as well as stylish color options and are often polarized to reduce glare. The sunglasses typically retail for between $99 and $200.
Oakley Aviator Sunglasses
Best known for sporty and functional designs, Oakley also makes a range of women’s aviator sunglasses. These sunglasses often feature lightweight and durable frames, as well as UV-protected and mirrored lenses. Oakley aviator sunglasses come in around $100 to $200 depending on the specific model and features.
Your choice of brand for women’s aviator sunglasses greatly hinges on your budget, personal style, and preferences. Each brand presents a unique interpretation of the quintessential aviator silhouette, offering diverse styles and innovative aspects that align with your specific requirements.

How to Choose the Perfect Pair of Women’s Aviator Sunglasses
Delving Deeper into Women’s Aviator Sunglasses
Aviator sunglasses, initially crafted for pilots in 1936 by Bausch & Lomb, became widely known under the brand name Ray-Ban. These sunglasses are characteristically distinguished by dark, usually reflective lenses that are two to three times larger than your eyeball. Additionally, they feature slender metal frames with a double or triple bridge and either bayonet or cable temples that curve round the back of the ears. From inception, aviator sunglasses have become increasingly popular within the fashion arena, breaking beyond gender boundaries to appeal to both men and women.
Choosing Based on Face Shape
Face shape plays a significant role when selecting sunglasses. Aviators are versatile and suit most face shapes, thanks to their softly curved shape. They are particularly flattering on oval, square, and heart-shaped faces. For oval-shaped faces, almost all styles work, yet square aviators can help maintain balance. Those with square faces can opt for classic or teardrop aviators to soften their strong jawline. For heart-shaped faces, smaller aviators help enhance facial symmetry.
Selecting According to Skin Tone
Skin tone is another crucial factor in picking sunglasses. The general rule of thumb is to choose a pair that contrasts with your skin tone. For lighter skin tones, dark or brightly colored frames can offer a beautiful contrast. Meanwhile, gold frames look stunning against warmer skin tones. Bronze and tortoiseshell frames can complement all skin tones.
Factor in Personal Style
When shopping for aviators, consider your personal style. Aviators come in numerous colors, frame materials, and lens technologies. From the classic gold-framed with green lenses to sleek black frames with mirrored lenses, there’s something for every style.
Ensuring Comfort and UV Protection
It’s equally important to ensure the glasses are comfortable. They should sit comfortably on the bridge of your nose and not touch your cheeks when you smile. Look for ones with adjustable nose pads for personalized comfort.
UV protection is another essential feature. Sunglasses should shield your eyes from the harmful UV rays. Always choose sunglasses that offer 100% UVA and UVB protection. Polarized lenses are an added bonus as they reduce glare, making them perfect for driving or any water activities.
Maintaining Your Sunglasses
Maintaining your sunglasses can prolong their lifespan. Regular cleaning with a lens solution and a microfiber cloth can keep your lenses smudge and scratch-free. Avoid using abrasives or ammonia-based cleaners that can damage the lens coating. Although aviators are strong, they can deform under extreme heat, so store them away from direct sunlight.
Additionally, consider buying ones with scratch-resistant lenses or investing in a sturdy carrying case for extra protection. Pairs with replaceable lenses or parts can also be a wise investment in the long run.
Choosing women’s aviator sunglasses involves analyzing face shape, skin tone, personal style, along with ensuring comfort and UV protection. With careful maintenance, your chosen pair can last for years to come, offering style, comfort, and great vision.

Having journeyed through the compelling history of women’s aviator sunglasses, surveying some of the top brands and models, and learning about the criteria to consider when choosing the perfect pair, it’s clear that these iconic glasses are etched into the fabric of our society. Women’s aviator sunglasses are the ultimate blend of form and function, providing sun protection while adding a classic touch to any look. The transcendent appeal of these frames lies not only in their universal style but also in the significance they carry, representing freedom, individuality, and an unapologetic expression of personal style. The next time you grab your aviator sunglasses before heading out, remember that you’re not just wearing a pair of glasses; you’re donning an emblem of cultural history and timeless style.
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