Is there any accessory more pivotal to your wardrobe than a solid pair of sunglasses? Versatile, practical, and undeniably cool, they’re the underrated workhorse in your daily get-up. Whether you’re sporting them to cut the summer glare or to simply look good, picking the right pair is essential. So, let’s cut through the noise and dive into the fabulous world of the top 5 designer sunglass brands, each with a distinct personality and style.
1. Ray-Ban
The perfect blend of timeless style and quality, Ray-Ban is the quintessential American eyewear brand. From the iconic Aviators, originally designed for U.S. pilots, to the Wayfarers, a favorite of movie stars and musicians alike, Ray-Ban sunglasses exude effortless cool.
Pros: Classic styles that transcend time; frames that fit most face shapes. Cons: High prevalence of counterfeit models due to brand popularity.
Story Time: Did you know that Ray-Ban started its journey by solving a problem for U.S. Air Force pilots who were experiencing headaches and nausea due to intense blue and white hues of the sky?
Where to Buy: Check out official Ray-Ban stores, their website, or authorized retailers like Sunglass Hut.
Ray Bans
2. Gucci
Nothing spells flamboyant glamour like a pair of Gucci shades. Offering more than just UV protection, they are a statement of personal style and a testament to the brand’s legacy in the fashion industry.
Pros: Bold, trendy designs; strong brand prestige. Cons: Priced at the higher end of the spectrum; may be too flashy for some.
Story Time: Gucci’s emblematic GG logo stands for Guccio Gucci, the founder of the brand, and was introduced by his son Aldo Gucci in 1933.
Where to Buy: Gucci’s official website, their flagship stores, or luxury department stores like Neiman Marcus or Nordstrom.
Gucci
3. Prada
When high fashion meets eyewear, you get Prada. Known for their modern and often avant-garde designs, Prada sunglasses are the epitome of luxury.
Pros: Unique, fashion-forward designs; excellent craftsmanship. Cons: High price point; styles might be too bold for some.
Story Time: Prada began as a luxury leather goods store in 1913 and didn’t start making sunglasses until almost a century later, but they quickly became leaders in the eyewear industry.
Where to Buy: Prada’s official website, their brand stores, or online luxury fashion retailers like Farfetch.
Prada
4. Versace
A daring concoction of glamour and boldness, Versace sunglasses come with the promise of the brand’s Italian lineage and a distinctive flamboyant style.
Pros: Striking designs that stand out; high brand recognition. Cons: Styles may be too extravagant for some; pricing is premium.
Story Time: Gianni Versace chose the head of Medusa as the brand’s logo because she made people fall in love with her and they had no way back – much like how people fall in love with the brand’s products.
Where to Buy: Visit Versace’s official website, their stores, or online luxury fashion retailers like SSENSE.
Versace
5. Tom Ford
If sophistication had a name in the world of designer sunglasses, it would be Tom Ford. Their glasses echo elegance and modern minimalism.
Pros: Sleek, contemporary designs; high-quality materials. Cons: High price point; designs might be too minimalistic for some.
Story Time: Before launching his own line, Tom Ford was the creative director for Gucci and Yves Saint Laurent and is credited with turning Gucci’s fortunes around in the 1990s.
Where to Buy: Check out Tom Ford’s official website, their brand outlets, or high-end department stores like Bloomingdale’s.
Tom Ford
Did You Know?
While today we see sunglasses as a combination of style and eye protection, they have a history that dates back to Roman times. However, they weren’t used for sun protection back then. Roman emperors, such as Nero, watched gladiator fights through emeralds to reduce squinting.
Additionally, the first pair of protective sunglasses was created by James Ayscough in the 18th century. He believed that blue or green tinted glass could potentially alleviate specific vision impairments.
Finally, Polaroid, as a brand, has an intriguing story as well. The company’s founder, Edwin H. Land, first invented the polarizing lens to help reduce the glare for pilots in World War II.
The Round-Up
Whether you’re going for classic cool or bold glamor, there’s a designer brand out there to suit your taste. In this sartorial journey, remember, the right pair of sunglasses isn’t just about UV protection or brand prestige, it’s about finding a pair that resonates with your personal style and makes you feel like a million bucks every time you step out into the sun.
The Review
Top Designer Brands
Whether your style leans toward the classic cool of Ray-Ban or the bold flamboyance of Versace, there's a designer brand to cater to your preferences. The key to choosing the right pair of sunglasses is finding a style that resonates with your personality and makes you feel fantastic every time you step out in the sun. So, don your favorite shades and keep your style quotient soaring high!
