The Best Vintage Shades of All Time

(image: weheartit)

Whenever we’re in doubt about fashion, all we have to do is pick out an old magazine and see what could be cool again. There’s always inspiration for in the past, and that’s especially true when it comes to fashion. As modern as our sunglasses today may be, most of them actually take inspiration from iconic models that were popular in past decades. We went through the archives and found some of the best vintage shades of all times, as worn by celebrities of another century:

It doesn’t get any more iconic than Audrey Hepburn’s look in Breakfast at Tiffany’s! Any fashionista knows it by heart and possibly wore it at least one Halloween: the tiara, the oversized sunglasses, the little black dress, opera gloves and the jewels. Audrey’s sunglasses were mistakenly labeled Ray Ban, when they’re actually Oliver Goldsmith. The sunglasses are still available today.

For menswear, Persol are probably the most classic sunglasses there are. The round, keyhole design was popularized by Steve McQueen in the 60s, and they’ve become synonymous with cool. To this day, the popular model is produced by the brand, and worn by celebrities both male and female.

Another lady of many sunglasses was Jackie Kennedy. The first lady loved her oversized sunglasses (so 60s!), and we loved her square, gradient frames she wore ever so often. The spectacular style, with low arms and a geometric shape, are still reproduced by brands such as Gucci or Burberry.

Marilyn Monroe was an obvious icon of the mid century, and her cat eye sunglasses are still coveted by many. The blond actress had a full bombshell look, which included exaggerated cat eye sunglasses. The style is still made by Tom Ford, but you can also find authentic vintage pairs on Etsy.

Debbie Harry isn't as glamorous as these other ladies, but she is a rock’n’roll queen. Together with torn denim and sexy tank tops, her go-to sunglasses in the 80s were Ray Ban Wayfarers. The small, square, unisex frames couldn’t be more popular now, with virtually any sunglasses seller having them in stock, and every celebrity owning a pair.