Aviator eyeglasses are as cool as it gets in the eyewear world!
Yes, they may not be as famous as their aviator sunglasses counterparts. But these specs are just as stylish. And they’re practical, too!
Want to get in on this trend? I’ll walk you through the best way to pick a pair you can wear year in and year out.
At a Glance
- Aviator eyeglasses are in fashion, but they also never really went out of style.
- This style has been popular for decades. Aviator sunglasses have received the most attention over the years. But the eyeglasses are also becoming a top choice for those who need prescription lenses.
- They suit both men and women, and they offer a timeless look. Just make sure they work with your face shape and features.
- Black frames, a triple bridge, and oversized shapes add a contemporary twist.
Are Aviator Eyeglasses Still in Fashion?
2026 is a big year for aviators, with lots of influencers and celebrities wearing the shape while out and about.
That’s the thing about aviator eyeglasses. They share the same shape as classic aviator sunglasses, so they can’t really go out of style.
The style has been popular for a century, and it’s been immortalized by movies such as Top Gun, where Tom Cruise sported aviator sunglasses. The eyeglasses share that same famous shape, minus the tint.
What’s the Hype With Aviator Glasses?
They are one of the most instantly recognizable glasses styles in the world. But the story behind the look goes beyond fashion. Aviator frames were originally associated with pilots. They then gained wider popularity through brands like Ray-Ban and appearances on top Hollywood stars.
These frames aren’t a passing hype or a fleeting trend. Aviator eyeglasses are a part of fashion history.
What Makes These Eyeglasses So Distinct?
The teardrop lenses are the first sign of aviator eyeglasses. Unlike round glasses, they are wider at the top and taper toward the bottom. This was originally so they would cover pilots’ field of vision better.
The double bridge design is the other major notable part of the aviators. They usually have two (or sometimes even three) bars that connect the lenses above your nose. This is practical and helps reinforce the strength of the glasses. It’s also become an iconic part of the glasses’ look.
Many aviator frames are made from metal, but there are plenty of acetate options available today, too. So, you can choose which one suits you best!
Top Aviator Styles for Women
For women, the key to pulling off aviators is finding a pair that fits well.
Many aviator styles are unisex, including popular options from Ray-Ban. So don’t feel limited to frames marketed specifically for women. Check the measurements and consider how the frame’s size and proportions work with your face.
Oversized aviators are in fashion and can look especially great on women with heart, square, and oval faces. Just make sure the frame edges don’t extend too far past your face, and that the glasses don’t slide down your nose.
Here are a few tips for choosing your frames:
- This year, acetate frames are in. Black acetate aviator eyeglasses look bold and contemporary.
- If you prefer metal over acetate, try mixing up your color choice. For example, rose gold suits many different skin tones thanks to the mix of silver and yellow gold.
- Tortoiseshell or brown frames are perfect for that retro look. They are also timeless; tortoiseshell has been popular even longer than aviators! Try a pair like the Chesterfield pair below.
Top Aviator Styles for Men
Aviator eyeglasses are perfect for men who love the sunglasses version and want a prescription pair. They look great with everything from suits to casual weekend jeans.
They can bring out your personal style better than many other types of glasses. Why? Because they have the cool factor that can take any outfit from a 5 to a 10.
Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- If you want a modern, more architectural look, try navigator styles. These are a more angular cousin of the aviator, with more edges than curves.
- For something more contemporary, opt for a triple bridge instead of a double.
- Go for stylish black frames if you want something other than metal. They are also perfect if you wear a lot of black (or gray-toned) clothing for a sleek look. See the Vesari pair below for an example of a cool pair of black specs.
Celebrities in Aviator Eyeglasses
As mentioned, lots of influencers and celebrities have been seen in these eyeglasses in recent years! Jennifer Aniston is one of the biggest A-listers often spotted in aviator glasses. She loves oversized pairs with metal frames.
Supermodels Bella Hadid and Kendall Jenner were both seen in oversized aviator glasses, proving they’re a trend for all ages.
Robert Downey Jr. is another longtime aviator fan. He’s been spotted in acetate and metal frames on red carpets and at events, including the Oscars. This is proof the style has the superhero stamp of approval!
FAQs
Are aviators good for women?
Yes, it’s a common misconception that aviator glasses are made for men. It’s a unisex shape that also suits women. The key is finding a pair that fits your face and features.
Do aviator eyeglasses look good?
If you’re tired of wearing the same shape you’ve had for the past few years, step outside the box. Aviators let you try something new while staying timeless and not trend-driven.
Will aviator glasses suit my face shape?
In general, aviators suit most faces. However, they often work especially well with heart, square, and oval faces because they match their proportions.
But try on a few pairs (virtually or in person) to see what works best for you.
Ready to try out the aviator trend? Check out aviator glasses on EZContacts!
