Choosing your vintage style sunglasses
Vintage style sunglasses have grown in popularity due to their timeless appeal. Even though they are classic, their shapes and styles are constantly being reinvented to create a modern take on retro designs. Read this guide to find the perfect vintage-inspired sunglasses, as well as insights on the right shapes and colours to look out for to suit you.
Aviators
Aviator sunglasses originated in the 1930s when pilots wore these sunglasses to help protect their eyes from glare and UV rays whilst flying at high altitudes. Read more about the importance of UV protection here. Aviators are known for their iconic teardrop shape and provide a wider field of vision as well as better glare protection. Brands such as Ray-Ban and Boss are popular for these designs. View our aviator shapes here.
Compliments: Heart or oblong face shapes
Recommended frame colours: Gold, silver, black
Recommended lens styles: Gradient brown, mirrored chrome, or yellow tint for a retro look
Round frames
Round sunglasses became a popular fashion trend in the 1960s and 1970s. Celebrities like John Lennon and Janis Joplin often wore round glasses at the peak of their careers and have since become associated with the era. Offering a bohemian vibe, round sunglasses have made a comeback. Round sunglasses are a popular choice at festivals too - read more our top 5 summer festivals looks here. View our round shapes here.
Compliments: Square face shapes
Recommended frame colours: Clear acetate, blush tones, or tortoiseshell (any colour)
Recommended lens styles: Soft yellow, rose-tinted, mirrored blue, or grey
Cat-eye
Cat-eye sunglasses are trendy and flattering. They became popular in the 1950s due to their association with Hollywood glamour and were worn by famous figures such as Marilyn Monroe and Grace Kelly. They are known for having an upsweep at the outer edges, creating a feminine shape. See how you can create a classy, chic look by pairing your cat-eye sunglasses with your outfit here.View our cat-eye shapes here.
Compliments: Heart shaped faces
Recommended frame colours: Black, white, blush pink, or gold-tone metal
Recommended lens styles: Dark gradient brown, champagne-tinted, or mirrored lenses
Oversized square and geometric shapes
Oversized square and geometric frames in bold colours or chunky acetate were popular styles worn in the 1970s and 1990s. Nowadays, they create a trendy and refined look, offering a great opportunity to express individuality. View our square and geometric shapes here.
Compliments: Round or oblong face shapes
Recommended frame colours: Tortoiseshell, nude, ivory, or transparent
Recommended lens styles: Amber-tinted, grey gradient, or smoky green
If you would like further help and guidance on finding the right lenses for you, check out our lens guide here. Or, for further tips on how to choose your vintage style sunglasses, come in and see us by booking an appointment today.
*25% off sunglasses: Discount will be applied when you purchase a complete prescription or non-prescription pair of sunglasses. Excludes Boots brand sunglasses, Maui Jim, Radley Sun and AllSaints Sun. Offer limited to maximum three pairs per customer. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or discount on glasses or sunglasses, including over 60s discount, student discount and our additional pairs half price offer. You will need a valid prescription for prescription sunglasses. Valid 23rd April 2025 to 15th July 2025.
