Current, cool, low-key or classical? The aviators and navigators for the season offer so much style and design intrigue, that we think this shape should be your number one…
It might be a little surprising, but one of the classics of eyewear apparently never goes out of style. Thanks to its extraordinary history and endorsement through the decades, the shape that has famously been worn by some of the most iconic celebrity influencers of the past, from Steve McQueen to Paul Newman, Elton John to Princess Diana, Tom Cruise to Brad Pitt, and of course Sarah Jessica Parker…has popped back up into the top 5 bestselling sunglass styles of the year (here at Reading Glasses!), with a variety of shapes and colors ensuring they are versatile and interesting to wear, as well as protecting the eyes.
Also this year, it’s a style for everyone, not just the guys. So take a leaf out of Gwyneth Paltrow’s book (her courtroom style is the one to take another look at) and consider this shape as an optical style…
For Women
1. Randolph Aviator 23k Gold
The innately cool look of these traditional gold frames is ideal for vacations, city days and summer weekends away. The slightly square lens shape offers a flattering fit and the styling is precise, coming from a brand with an exceptional heritage in classic aviator design.
2. Coach 7107
A designer brand that puts a whole load of glamour into the classic aviator shape! This Coach style has a classic front with the teardrop eye shape, combined with feminine temples with a slightly ornate detail that softens the look.
3. Ray-Ban 4376V
A classic Ray-Ban aviator shape in a lightweight acetate material, this frame is modern and refined, as well as comfortable to wear. It’s a no-fuss choice, with plenty of individual style!
4. Maui Jim Baby Beach 245
The ideal choice for a smaller fit, this titanium frame has a glossy sleek finish. The pink tinted lenses offer a statement look which is unlikely to go out of fashion.
5. Ray-Ban 3025L
There is a new love for oversized optical aviators in women’s fashion. We’re not sure if it’s thanks to some celebrities or just a part of the general 1970s fad; however you look at it, this style’s a winner for summer, and very likely, on into fall!
For Men
6. Lamborghini 331S
If you are sticking to classics this eyewear is slick: the overtones of the styling of the sports cars of the same name elevate the classic double bridge design while the slightly different shaping of the lens adds a modern and mature look that is very tasteful and refined.
7. Randolph Anderson
Our favorite for large faces in a beautiful Bronze Oxide tone, the Anderson is a frame you will keep for your lifetime, with its classically luxurious lines. Coming from the US company Randolph who make frames for the US military, we know that this one offers great protection as well as being very light to wear.
8. Canali CO206
Give your personal style a boost with these designer sunglasses in acetate. Canali combines Italian know-how and luxury with designs that blend wearability, lasting quality and style. There’s a hint of retro and the style that Paul Newman wore in 1979 at Le Mans.
9. Maui Jim Mavericks 264
For an oversized statement this model will stand out! As well as all the technical features of this well-known brand, the frame shape is free-spirited and a great look for the most active, sporty guys.
10. Seattle Eyeworks 980
It’s out there, it’s confident, an optical version of the aviator style. The large rectangular eye shape combines with a very narrow double bridge design to create a frame that’s very wearable – another one that’s never going to go out of style.