The groovy vibes of the ’70s are back in full swing, and this time, it’s gracing your eyewear. Half a century later, the iconic sunglasses of the decade are making a stylish comeback. From oversized aviators to bold, geometric frames, these retro shades offer a fun and fashionable way to add a touch of nostalgia to your modern look.
WHAT SUNGLASSES WERE POPULAR IN THE 70S?
The 1970s marked a transformative era for sunglasses, shifting their purpose from mere utility to a bold fashion statement. Iconic styles like cat-eye, oversized, and geometric frames emerged, setting trends that still resonate today. Superstar celebrities of the time embraced this newfound accessory, sporting retro sunglasses with panache and solidifying their status as eyewear trendsetters.
HOW TO ROCK THE 70S SUNGLASSES LOOK
Channel your inner groovy spirit with a pair of 70s-inspired sunglasses. Whether you’re a man or a woman, these retro shades can instantly elevate your style. Don’t be afraid to experiment with bold colors and patterns. To complete the look, pair your sunglasses with flared jeans, a flowy blouse or a denim jacket. Discover our top picks and find the perfect pair to elevate your style.
OUR TOP PICKS
AVIATOR-STYLE SUNGLASSES
Aviator sunglasses, icons of cool since their creation in the 1930s, have a special connection to the 70s. This decade saw aviator lenses grow slightly larger, and the introduction of molded “ski” versions, often with mirrored lenses, expanded the style beyond the slopes. These retro-inspired aviators remain a popular choice today, adding a touch of classic flair to modern outfits.
OVERSIZED SUNGLASSES
Oversized sunglasses were a defining accessory of the 1970s, their popularity stemming from the mod style of the preceding decade. Iconic stars popularized the look, sporting round or square frames with thick black lenses. Today, a myriad of colors and variations on these classic shapes are available. However, it’s important to consider face shape; oversized glasses can be overpowering on smaller faces.
ALL BLACK SUNGLASSES
Embrace the ultimate 70s vibe with a pair of all-black Marc Jacobs oversized sunglasses. The deep square shape, softened by a subtly curved brow line, exudes feminine charm. The gold detailing on the temples adds a touch of luxury, elevating these shades from mere accessories to statement pieces. Whether you’re dressing up or keeping it casual, these sunglasses will effortlessly transport you back to the groovy era.
THICK-FRAME SUNGLASSES
Thick-framed sunglasses have evolved significantly from their bulky, unattractive predecessors of the 60s. Once synonymous with discomfort and outdated style, these frames have transformed into trendy, geometric shapes that epitomize the 70s aesthetic. Today’s thick-framed sunglasses often feature hypoallergenic optical materials, ensuring both comfort and longevity, making them a fashionable and practical choice.
DOUBLE-BRIDGE SUNGLASSES
Double-bridge sunglasses are iconic symbols of the 70s, often spotted alongside long brown cars and bushy mustaches in films from that era. These distinctive glasses feature an extra bridge running above the usual nose bridge, adding a unique touch to squared-off or rounded frames. Today, you can find double-bridge sunglasses in various frame shapes and colors, making them a versatile accessory for any outfit.
BOLD, TORTOISESHELL SUNGLASSES
Embrace the 70s vibe with these oversized, brown tortoiseshell sunglasses. Their unique bow shape is a playful nod to the era, while their generous size perfectly captures the decade’s essence. The temples are adorned with intricate gold metal cut-outs, zigzag patterns, and signature Karen Millen details, adding a touch of luxury and sophistication to this retro-inspired accessory.
GEOMETRIC SUNGLASSES
Geometric sunglasses are a bold throwback to the psychedelic era of the 1970s. Their angular shapes, often hexagonal or trapezoidal, perfectly complement the decade’s flamboyant fashion. Imagine these striking frames against a backdrop of bell-bottoms and platform shoes, and you’ll understand their disco-era appeal. However, geometric sunglasses aren’t for the style-shy. Their distinctive design demands attention and confidence, making them a statement piece for those who aren’t afraid to stand out.
BUTTERFLY AND CAT-EYE SUNGLASSES
Butterfly sunglasses, reminiscent of a butterfly’s wings, feature frames that narrow at the bridge and widen towards the temples. Often overlapping with the cat-eye style popularized in the 1950s, these sunglasses typically boast an upward sweep at the temples, either pointed or rounded. Today’s butterfly sunglasses have evolved beyond their 70s origins, offering a diverse range of materials, colors, and designs, making them a timeless and versatile accessory.
BRIGHT, ORANGE SUNNIES
Revive the iconic 70s vibe with the Specsavers Wineglass shades. These retro sunglasses capture the essence of the decade with their bold, square frame, reminiscent of the era’s vibrant fashion. Crafted from crystal-amber acetate, these shades boast a striking color palette that perfectly embodies the 70s spirit. The deep-sided temples and glittery core wire add a touch of modern flair while staying true to the vintage aesthetic. Prepare to turn heads and channel your inner disco diva or groovy dude with these eye-catching sunglasses.
EARTH TONES AND TINTS
Embrace the earthy vibes of the 70s with sunglasses in warm, natural tones. Burgundy, maroon, and copper shades are perfect for adding a touch of retro glamour. For a bold statement, consider a pair of burgundy cat-eye sunglasses with a chain-link detail. This style combines the classic 70s shape with a modern twist, creating a look that’s both stylish and eye-catching.
CIRCULAR SUNGLASSES
John Lennon’s iconic round glasses remain a powerful symbol of the 70s. To channel this legendary look, consider the striking Vivienne Westwood sunnies. Their exposed-core gold metal temples offer a contemporary twist, while the blue and brown tortoiseshell pattern evokes the earthy vibes of the era. These sunglasses are the perfect finishing touch for a 70s-inspired ensemble. Pair them with flared jeans and a flowy blouse to complete the retro-chic look.
CONCLUSION
Sunglasses of the 70s were not only eye protection accessories but also bold fashion statements. Today, 70s sunglasses are making a strong comeback, bringing a touch of nostalgia and modernity to your style. Confidently express your unique personality by owning a pair of 70s sunglasses and immerse yourself in the attractive fashion flow.
