Three Shades Of Ray-Ban

Almost no pair of specs are a creation completely in and of themselves anymore; almost all have been influenced by Ray-Ban shades that have made an indelible mark on eyewear. Founded in 1937 with little pomp and circumstance, the once-humble American company today finds itself at the forefront of accessorising, a pioneer of eyewear. With recognisable models now imitated by designers the world round, Ray-Ban has forever changed the landscape of sunglass fashion.

Check out these three signature Ray-Ban styles to figure out which one is for you.

Aviator

When in 1929 US Army Air Corps Lieutenant General John MacCready commissioned Rochester-based medical equipment manufacturer Bausch & Lomb to create sunglasses for his pilots, the Aviator was born. They were popularised after General Douglas MacArthur was photographed in them landing in the Philippines. What was originally designed to prevent the nausea and headaches caused by the intense glares of sky and sun, is today a fashion staple.

Wayfarer

The 1950s saw Ray-Ban come up with the edgy Wayfarer model. Instead of the lightweight metal frames on the Aviators, the Wayfarers featured thick plastic ones. They were quickly propelled to Hollywood-level fame, with James Dean donning them in ‘Rebel Without A Cause’, and Audrey Hepburn’s legendary character in ‘Breakfast At Tiffany’s’ practically living in them. Today they can be seen on the likes of Anna Wintour, proving the Wayfarer never goes out of style.

Clubmaster

Inspired by the ‘50s, the Clubmaster has a distinctly intellectual air to it. Malcolm X owned several pairs of American Optical Sirmont browline glasses, so in Denzel Washington’s portrayal of him in the 1992 biopic, the actor naturally wore a pair of Ray-Ban Clubmasters. With a bold browline as its most prominent feature, it’s no wonder it satisfies that penchant we now have for anything remotely retro. If you’re a sucker for throwbacks, then throw on a pair of Clubmaster Ray-Bans.

Even if you’re not into any of these classic styles, there’s a pair of round hippie sunglasses or flat-tops to appease your alternative fashion tendencies. With all the jealousy-inspired shade that will be thrown your way when you’re sporting Ray-Bans, you’ll be glad you have a pair to shield you.

Be a part of the legacy that is Ray-Ban with a pair of their shades.