The 1970s were a fantastic time for fashion, full of hot trends, hip styles, and plenty of creativity! A newfound experimental culture extended to eyewear, with several new shapes and styles of shades born in the era. Read on to learn more and pick a pair of ’70s sunglasses to add to your collection.
What Defined ’70s Sunglasses?
The sunglasses of the ‘70s were generally big, bold, and made to be seen! The ‘70s were when sunglasses started moving from being purely functional to a fashion statement. Some of the big celebrities of the day, including Sophia Loren, John Lennon, Cher, and Jackie O, led the trends and cemented them for future generations.
From the era, there are a few retro-inspired styles that won’t go out of style. Trends always come back around, but when it comes to sunglasses, invest in a few pairs that you can wear again and again.
Gradient Lenses Are Effortlessly Cool
Gradient lenses transition from one color to another or from a darker tone to a lighter tone. They were a favorite of actress and icon Sophia Loren. She was often photographed by the paparazzi in huge, chunky gradient lenses.
These brown-tinted sunglasses by Coach are ideal for year-round use. They’re perfect for pairing with everything from your winter suede boots to your summer easy breezy button-down shirts.
This pair of square Burberry sunglasses is also a wise investment if you want to inject color into your eyewear collection. They feature dainty gold frames and pink gradient lenses.
Perfect for:
Those who prefer lenses that are a little see-through rather than completely blacked out and opaque.
Butterfly Sunglasses Show Off Your Free Spirit!
Butterfly sunglasses don’t literally look like a butterfly! They’re not cartoonish or costume. Rather, the shape starts narrower towards the nose and then curves out to get wider near the edge of your face.
It creates a similar appearance to butterfly wings, hence the name. Hollywood icons loved this style since it’s feminine and provides coverage, which is ideal after a long night. In particular, this was a favorite style of ’70s queen Bianca Jagger, who loved oversized butterfly sunglasses.
You can choose from various frames, but don’t be afraid to experiment with some color. After all, the ’70s were bright and bold. With a butterfly twist, these Tom Ford shades are the perfect mix of trendy and versatile.
Here is another pair of Tom Ford butterfly sunglasses, which are a hit with their mocha frames. They give off that model off-duty look.
Perfect for:
Adding a subtle touch of hippie-chic to any outfit. They are flattering and offer an oversized silhouette, and they can make even a simple outfit look glamorous.
Round Sunglasses Are Timelessly Retro
Trendy round sunglasses are as groovy as it gets. Round shades started becoming huge towards the end of the ’60s thanks to John Lennon. In the ’70s, they became mainstream. To this day, they’re popular with both men and women.
They can make you look fabulous without having to try too hard. Pick a pair that suits the shape of your face. Some are smaller, like the ones often worn by Gigi Hadid. Others are oversized round sunglasses, like those worn by one of the original supermodels, Twiggy, decades ago.
These unisex round sunglasses by Ray-Ban are a good balance between vintage and contemporary. They’re cool, casual, and great for daily wear. Pair them with your favorite jeans and a white T-shirt for the ultimate laidback weekend look.
For something contemporary, these sunglasses by Alain Mikli are the perfect solution. The round, gradient lenses give them a retro look, while the lilac color and fun shape give them a modern edge.
Perfect for:
Those who want a pair of sunglasses that will never go out of style. Round sunglasses suit a range of face shapes (including square and heart). They also fit many different fashion styles, from rock ‘n’ roll to bohemian. They’re incredibly versatile!
Double-Bridged Sunglasses Offer Subtle Flair
As you might expect, double-bridged sunglasses have two bridges between the lenses. They typically feature medium-sized frames. These frames aren’t flamboyant. In fact, they are very easy to pair with many looks.
Aviators, which have remained popular for decades, often have a double or triple bridge. They’re a favorite of men and women of all ages, including celebrities! Thanks to brands like Ray-Ban, aviators transcend trends; they are always in style.
It doesn’t get more classic than these unisex gold-framed Ray-Bans. Their timeless shape works on various face shapes for a flattering fit.
Perfect for:
People who want to look like they stepped off a movie set. Aviators have been popular for years, but Tom Cruise made them mainstream for men and women after he wore a pair in Top Gun.
Oversized Sunglasses Never Seem to Go Out of Style
The 1970s were all about being unapologetic about fashion. It was truly the era of oversized sunglasses, which have been a staple ever since! Jackie Kennedy was one of the biggest fashion icons in the ‘70s, and her signature style always involved huge sunglasses.
Pick a classic pair for that jet-set look, but if you want to have a little fun, try oversized rectangular sunglasses. These Gucci shades will instantly upgrade your accessory collection with their bold design.
For something more subtle and classic, like Jackie Kennedy used to wear, these Michael Kors sunglasses are ideal. The tortoiseshell frames and discreet logo are great for everyday wear, whether you’re heading to work or vacation.
Perfect for:
Those who enjoy being anonymous. Oversized sunglasses are a celebrity favorite, so they can hide from cameras. For us average folk, they’re good for hiding signs of a long day!
Geometric Sunglasses are Fabulously Funky
Geometric sunglasses go the extra mile. They add a hint of whimsy to your look while still being stylish. The trick is to find a pair that’s the right size for your face. This trend goes best with thinner frames, so they don’t overpower you. This style was another favorite of Sophia Loren and complemented her huge hair and bold makeup.
Ms. Loren probably would have loved these epic Furla sunglasses. The transparent khaki frames are equal parts unique and glamorous. They are a great pair to transition from summer to fall.
If you want a modern pair of geometric sunglasses, then these CELINE shades featuring gold frames are a great splurge. They are a popular style among models and singers, including Hailey Bieber and Miley Cyrus.
Perfect for:
Those who are bored with curved sunglasses and want to try a different shape. Geometric shades are easy to pull off if you choose a size that suits your face.
Thick-Framed Sunglasses Are Far Out!
In the ’70s, thick frames were everywhere. They’re still popular today! If you pick the right pair, they can frame your face for a flattering look. This style became popular with celebrities, including Audrey Hepburn. Today, the likes of Emily Ratajowski and Rihanna love thick frames. They work particularly well with heart-shaped faces.
These CELINE sunglasses are an example of a dynamic shape and color that are easy to pull off. The tortoiseshell frames add a vintage-inspired touch that makes them pop.
If you’re a fan of black frames, then you’ll love these sunglasses by Miu Miu. The gold logo shows off your designer taste.
Perfect for:
Those who enjoy being complimented on their accessories. Thick frames are bold and show you enjoy playing with fashion.
Vivid Frames are Cool and Captivating
Color, color, color! The 1970s were vibrant; think disco-glam and Studio 54. Everything was glitzy and full of life, which extended to bright, fashion-forward sunglasses.
Take the spirit of the ’70s and find a pair of sunglasses that take things up a notch. You can select shades with loud frames in an oversized shape. These Kate Spade sunglasses are what I’m talking about!
Or, if you just want to dip your toes in the water, try thinner bright frames in a cat-eye silhouette. These Coach shades are the perfect companion for summer, and they’ll liven up any look.
Perfect for:
Those who love playing with prints and expressing themselves through their favorite colors.
Brightly Tinted Lenses Add a Splash of Sass
Tinted lenses have made a huge comeback in the last few years. No longer is it all about gray or brown lenses. Instead of playing it safe, go for pink, red, and green tones.
You can combine this trend with gradient lenses for a touch of 1970s Saturday Night Fever swagger. These hugely popular Miu Miu oval sunglasses are cute and colorful. The gold frames pair perfectly with the pink-tinted lenses.
These unisex Tiffany sunglasses are also chic and unique. They feature blue lenses for a little sprinkle of individuality.
Perfect for:
Those who enjoy adding color to their outfits with fun accessories. If you see sunglasses for their fashion potential as much as for their function, then tinted lenses are for you.
Turn Heads in Quirky, Funky Sunglasses
Since the ’70s were all about self-expression, it was an age of funky sunglasses. I’m talking about bold, outrageous shapes and quirky designs. Singers like Cher and Elton John were among those who brought disco diva fashion to the forefront.
These Saint Laurent sunglasses feature oversized heart-shaped frames. They’re the perfect mix of cute and glamorous.
Perfect for:
Those who want to make a big statement with their sunglasses! These sunglasses can easily become the focal point of your outfit and show off your fashion credentials.
TL;DR
No matter which ’70s sunglasses you choose, you can bet they’ll add some personality to your outfit. It’s time to take some inspiration from icons like Pat Clevland and Stevie Nicks, and you won’t go wrong!
- Round sunglasses and oversized shades have been trendy for decades, so you know you’re making a wise investment.
- If you want to add some originality to your outfit, then geometric sunglasses and bright printed frames will liven up your look. Thick frames and bold logos will take them a step further.
- For a more subtle ‘70s-inspired accessory, choose butterfly sunglasses or double-bridged shades like classic Ray-Bans.
- Add a pop of color with tinted lenses or gradient lenses in quirky colors such as purple, pink, and blue.
