Classic shapes get a stylish makeover with quirky and refreshing details for summer.
Actor Tom Cruise in aviators. Intrecciato top-rim aviator metal sunglasses, Bottega Veneta, Versailles sunglasses, Eyepetizer [Photo provided to China Daily]
Aviator Style
In 1937, Ray-Ban created the first polarised sunglasses – for United States Air Force pilots. The large lenses (originally green) were made to give eyes in the sky optimal protection and crystal-clear vision. Easily recognisable by their thin metallic frame with a double bridge and their teardrop shape, they were very trendy during the '50s – every man wanted to be imbued with their heroic vibes. Want to channel your inner Tom Cruise in Top Gun? Get a pair of aviators and make them your own; it fits just about everyone and looks just as badass on the sidewalk as it does in the cockpit of a fighter jet.
Actress Audrey Hepburn in a scene from
Breakfast at Tiffany's. Meteor in Striped Havana, Ray-Ban, Eugenio round-frame acetate sunglasses, Tom Ford Eyewear [Photo provided to China Daily]
'60s Chic
In 1952, when the sunglasses style was all about metallic frames and the aviator shape, Ray-Ban launched the Wayfarer, a dramatically different model using a relatively new material called acetate. They were mistakenly associated with Audrey Hepburn's look in 1961's Breakfast at Tiffany's – in fact, she wore a pair of Oliver Goldsmith shades. Funnily enough, the movie significantly contributed to the fame of the Wayfarer. Mysterious, modern and dark, they're still a safe bet for hiding sleepy eyes or escaping from the paparazzi. And since they're unisex, remember that sharing is caring.
Actress Diane Keaton in round glasses. Zev round sunglasses, Moscot, Bug-embellished sunglasses, Alexander McQueen Eyewear [Photo provided to China Daily]
Going Round
Round-shaped sunglasses are a key feature of the hippie dress code – how could we forget John Lennon's iconic look? Far from the mood of cat-eye sunglasses, which perfectly embody Hollywood glamour and drama, round frames express intellectualism and a laid-back spirit. If you have a square face, dare to wear lenses as round as goggles; they'll soften your angles. If not, go for a slightly more elongated model and enjoy their quirky retro look. Now you're part of the circle alongside Diane Keaton (pictured below), Mahatma Gandhi and Harry Potter.
Former first lady of US Jacqueline Onassis in oversized sunglasses. Larry sunglasses, Rick Owens, Dior So Light 1 sunglasses, Dior Eyewear [Photo provided to China Daily]
Bigger and Bolder
If your desire to be seen exceeds the mere practical need to see, oversized shades are for you. Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis made bug-eyed sunglasses her famous signature. To emulate her elegant style, make her shades your own and choose the Spa 2 or Jacky 1 models that François Pinton designed for her in the '60s. Otherwise, make your own stylish statement and go for contemporary yet fabulous oversized sunglasses – but be sure they're suitable before you splash out on the craziest design.
