ON THE SUNNY SIDE
Louis Armstrong famously sang, “Life can be so sweet — on the sunny side of the street.” That’s even more true when you’re wearing a stylish pair of sunglasses
Aviator Style: In 1937, Ray-Ban created the first polarized sunglasses — for United States Air Force pilots. The large lenses (originally green) were made to give these eyes in the sky optimal protection and crystal-clear vision. Easily recognizable 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. Wanna 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.
’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 as they’re unisex, why not share them with your betrothed?
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 above), Mahatma Gandhi and Harry Potter. 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 suit you before splashing out on the craziest design.