When discussing the category of eyewear, sunglasses brands have always held a prominent spot. The allure of a perfectly crafted pair of sunglasses, be it the best mirrored sunglasses or classic aviators, is timeless. These aren’t just tools to shield our eyes from the sun; they are definitive style statements, representing the wearers’ personalities, tastes, and, often, aspirations.
Sunglasses Brands
The right pair can transform a simple outfit into a fashion-forward ensemble and give its wearer an air of mystery. Our guide dives into some of the best sunglasses brands, tracing their histories, unique features, and the statement pieces that have made them household names.
Carrera: Pioneers of Contemporary Eyewear
Founded in 1956, Carrera has become an emblem of avant-garde eyewear, intertwining style with sports. Known for its distinctive aviator designs, such as the Champion and the Panamerika, Carrera’s sunglasses are not just accessories but statements. These pieces embody Carrera’s dedication to both functionality and design.
Costa Del Mar: Marine Elegance
With its inception in 1983, Costa Del Mar has been synonymous with premium polarized sunglasses tailored for water enthusiasts. Their classic styles, like the Fantail and the Tuna Alley, capture the brand’s essence: durability blended with sophistication.
Crafted meticulously with ocean explorers in mind, Costa Del Mar’s creations exemplify the harmony between adventure and elegance.
Dita: Artistry & Opulence
Dita, founded in 1995, is a beacon of luxury in the eyewear industry. Their designs, like the Sequoia and the Flight, speak volumes about the brand’s commitment to artisanal craftsmanship and unique aesthetics.
Every Dita piece is a careful blend of modernity and tradition, making them a coveted choice among fans seeking unmatched opulence in eyewear.
Garrett Leight: California Craftsmanship
Emerging from Venice Beach in 2011, Garrett Leight California Optical is a homage to West Coast lifestyle and culture. Signature different styles like Brooks and Kinney epitomize the brand’s dedication to timeless design.
Every pair crafted by Garrett Leight offers vision and sight into Californian soul and style, blending the relaxed beach vibe with sophisticated city life.
Jacques Marie Mage: Exclusivity & Elegance
Founded in Los Angeles in 2014, Jacques Marie Mage specializes in the micro-production of artisanal eyewear. Renowned pieces like Zephirin underscore the brand’s attention to detail and passion for unique designs.
Every frame by Jacques Marie Mage is a story, weaving together luxury and precision, making them treasures in the world of premium sunglasses.
Le Specs: Trendsetter from Down Under
Founded in 1979 on the sunny shores of Australia, Le Specs quickly carved its name as a leader in iconic and innovative sunglass design. Celebrated for its iconic styles like the Air Heart and The Last Lolita, Le Specs doesn’t just create sunglasses – they create fashion moments. From its audacious frames to minimalist aesthetics, the brand showcases its knack for staying ahead of the curve.
Linda Farrow: The Epitome of Luxe Elegance
Linda Farrow, established in 1970, has continually placed luxury at the heart of its vision. Known for its lavish designs, the label’s sunglasses transcend mere accessory status, becoming objects of desire. Its aviator sunglasses even appeared in the classic film Scarface.
Having collaborated with fashion elites such as Dries Van Noten and Paco Rabanne, Linda Farrow’s reputation reflects its uncompromised pursuit of luxury in eyewear.
Maui Jim: Aloha to Sun-Perfect Clarity
Emerging from the beaches of Hawaii in 1980, Maui Jim has been on a mission to make the world brighter and more colorful. Best known for their iconic styles, such as the Peahi, Mavericks, and Banyans, Maui Jim’s styles are quite the experience, with the lens color ranging from electric blue to lava red. Infused with PolarizedPlus2® lens technology, the brand promises unparalleled visual clarity, capturing the vibrancy of island life.
Moscot: Big Apple Design
Established in 1915 on Manhattan’s Lower East Side, Moscot is a brand rich in history and heritage. Through styles like the Lemtosh Sun and the Arthur Sun, Moscot delivers pieces of New York’s storied past.
A blend of downtown aesthetics with over a century of craftsmanship, the frames are instantly recognizable and exude authenticity. With five generations of expertise behind them, Moscot’s commitment to classic design is evident.
Oakley: Pioneering Sports Optics
Since its inception in 1975, Oakley has stood as a titan in performance eyewear. With an iconic variety of styles, such as the Holbrook, Frogskins, and Radar, Oakley is synonymous with performance.
Their patented High Definition Optics (HDO) technology has set industry standards, embodying the brand’s ethos of merging scientific rigor with cutting-edge design. Athletes and sports fans favor this brand.
Oliver Peoples: Hollywood’s Quintessential Eyewear
Emerging in 1987 from the sunlit boulevards of West Hollywood, Oliver Peoples quickly became the eyewear choice of Hollywood’s elite. Their signature frames, including the Gregory Peck 1962, Sheldrake, and the O’Malley, epitomize a vintage elegance transcending fleeting fashion trends. Each piece reflects the brand’s attention to detail and an appreciation for timeless style.
Persol: Italian Craftsmanship, Timeless Elegance
Emerging from the heart of Turin in 1917, Persol stands as an enduring icon of Italian eyewear craftsmanship. Through styles like the 649 and the Steve McQueen, Persol artfully melds technology with art, offering sunglasses that are as functional as they are stylish.
Renowned for its signature Meflecto system — the world’s first flexible stem — Persol glasses are the epitome of comfort and design.
Randolph Engineering: Military Precision, Classic Allure
Founded in 1972, Randolph Engineering began its journey by crafting eyewear for the U.S. military. Styles like the Aviator and the Concorde are the epitome of American-made quality and embody the rigorous standards demanded by fighter pilots.
Handcrafted in Massachusetts, each frame undergoes a 200-step process, ensuring durability and precision. Beyond military circles, Randolph Engineering has also carved a niche for itself among fans who appreciate classic design rooted in genuine craftsmanship and history.
Ray-Ban: Timeless Icons of the Eyewear World
Founded in 1937, Ray-Ban has etched an indelible mark in the history of sunglasses. Pioneering with their quintessential Aviator, initially designed for U.S. pilots, they introduced the world to practicality and impeccable style.
The Wayfarer, another timeless creation, became an emblem of mid-century cool, adored by both celebrities and the public. Each frame that Ray-Ban crafts carries a legacy of innovation, marrying classic designs with a modern twist.
Saint Laurent: Parisian Meets Bold Modernity
With its origins steeped in the vibrant world of 1960s Paris, Saint Laurent has long been synonymous with unapologetic modernity and elegance. Sunglasses ranging from cat eyes to the heart-shaped LouLou style shows the brand’s audacious spirit and a keen eye for trends.Â
Every pair of designer shades, with its sleek lines and contemporary edge, embodies the brand’s rebellious soul and devotion to luxe Parisian style.
Sun Buddies: Scandinavian Simplicity, Artistic Flair
Born out of Sweden’s contemporary cultural scene in 2013, Sun Buddies reflects minimalist Scandinavian design infused with an artistic edge. Sunglasses like the Zinedine and the Bibi highlight the brand’s commitment to organic forms, high-quality materials, and a palette inspired by nature. For those in the know, Sun Buddies represents the intersection of art and everyday functionality in eyewear.
Tom Ford: Hollywood Glamour, Unrivaled Luxury
Launching his eponymous brand in 2005, Tom Ford swiftly established himself as a juggernaut in the world of luxury fashion and eyewear. With designs like the Morgan and the Anoushka, the brand’s sunglasses infuse a blend of old Hollywood charm with contemporary sophistication. Every piece exudes Ford’s signature style: bold, provocative, and undeniably luxurious.
Warby Parker: A Vision of Modern Eyewear
Warby Parker, established in 2010, has revolutionized the eyewear industry with its blend of contemporary design and offering at-home try-on. Known for its iconic styles like the Haskell and Durand, the brand seamlessly marries aesthetic appeal with quality.
Each pair is a testament to Warby Parker’s commitment to excellence and innovation in eyewear at affordable prices. Their signature designs have set them apart as leaders in modern sunglasses fashion.
Final Words
Looking at eyewear, one can’t help but acknowledge the pivotal role of sunglasses brands in shaping fashion and popular culture. From Hollywood’s brightest names donning their favorite shades to athletes ensuring optimal performance with the right pair, sunglasses have transcended their functional use.
They symbolize style, status, and, sometimes, rebellion. As we’ve journeyed through these iconic brands, we’ve seen tales of innovation, craftsmanship, and an unwavering commitment to quality. While trends come and go, the allure of a well-crafted pair of sunglasses remains constant.
