The original aviator sunglasses were created by Ray-Ban for military pilots in the mid-1930s. With their efficient and comfortable tear-drop shape, anti-glare lens curvature, and rugged construction, they were a welcome addition to the military pilot’s flight gear.
Ray-Ban later made further improvements to these pilot spectacles by introducing the mirrored lens which increased the clarity of this soon to be famous eyewear. The final improvement to them came with the advent of polarized lenses.
Over the years, Ray-Ban’s aviator sunglasses have become ingrained into the American subconscious. Synonymous with “cool” as a fashion statement, they have never gone out of style.
Because of their adoption by law enforcement, they now represent authority in a somewhat stereotypical manner, as emphasized in movies and in television. This, however, has not deterred them from becoming a fashion favorite among rock stars and celebrities.
It seems everyone loves these sunglasses and looks good wearing them. Age is no barrier, and neither is gender, as men and women of all ages seek to purchase these classy ‘shades’.
At one time, the original aviator sunglasses were only available to military pilots. Now fashionable and trendy, they are available to consumers in the original vintage, mirrored, and polarized models.
Other name brand designers, such as Oakley, have also produced their own versions adding to the variety while still adhering to the quality and basic style of the original.
Inevitably, the original aviator sunglasses have also been copied by “no-name” brands, but they will never match the caliber of the originals.