Rediscover Iconic Retro Shades and How to Style Them in 2023

The Rising Popularity of Retro Shades

Vintage inspired sunglasses are making a major comeback in recent years. Also known as retro shades, these eyewear accessories hark back to previous decades while still feeling fresh and contemporary. Many factors are driving the growing popularity of retro shades across age groups.

The Nostalgic Factor

There is an undeniable nostalgic factor associated with retro shades. For older generations who grew up in the 1950s, 1960s or 1970s, these sunglasses remind them of their younger years. The iconic cat eye glasses from the 50s and 60s or the oversized shades from the 70s and 80s make people feel nostalgic about the good old days.

Younger millennials and Gen Z consumers did not directly experience previous eras but they have been exposed to those time periods through old photographs, movies and pop culture influences. Wearing retro shades allows them to tap into the aesthetics and styles of bygone times.

Vintage Style Makes a Comeback

Fashion always moves in cycles. Trends fade away only to make a comeback years or decades later. After years of slender metallic or plastic frames dominating the eyewear market, the pendulum has swung back towards the vintage look.

Thicker, bolder plastic frames which were popular during the 20th century are back in vogue. Whether it is the cat eye, wayfarer, aviator or oval retro shapes, sunglasses brands are reinventing these vintage styles using contemporary colors and lens technology.

The Rise of Vintage Retailers

The growth of online vintage clothing and accessories retailers has also fueled the resurgence of retro shades. Sites like Etsy, Depop and eBay have made it easier for people to shop for second-hand genuine vintage sunglasses from different eras.

Besides being eco-friendly and light on the pocket, these vintage shades carry the charm that modern reproduction designs cannot replicate. The availability of these sites has led to heightened consumer interest in retro eyewear fashions.

Key Styles in Retro Shades

Some of the most iconic shapes that epitomize the vintage sunglasses look include:

Cat Eye

With its uptilted frame and pointed edges reminiscent of cat eyes, these women's shades first became popular in the 1950s and 60s. Modern versions use bold and bright colors on top of the classic winged design.

Wayfarer

The distinct trapezoidal frame of Wayfarer sunglasses sparked a revolution in eyewear when introduced in the mid-20th century. Their widespread popularity among celebrities coupled with retro revival has brought this iconic shape back in vogue.

Aviator

The thin teardrop shaped metal frames of Aviator shades have endured decade after decade since being popularized by pilots in the 1930s. Their vintage look continues to be preferred by men and women alike.

Oval

The clean oval frame front has managed to retain its retro appeal from 1950s Hollywood to today. Oversize oval frames in bright colors make a bold fashion statement.

How to Style Retro Shades

Since vintage style sunglasses have an inherently retro look, they lend themselves perfectly to recreate iconic outfit combinations from the past with a modern twist.

Mod Styling

For a 1960s mod inspired look, pair cat eye shades with a check shift dress, knee high boots and a vintage shopper bag. Use bright colors and patterns to get a retro vibe.

Disco Fever

Channel a 1970s disco diva appearance with metallic aviators, wide leg sequin pants, wrap top and heels. Go for an all black palette or colorful disco prints.

80’s Block Party

Create an 80’s block party costume with oversize wayfarers, ripped mom jeans, graphic band tee, high top sneakers and a puffy jacket for a hip retro teenager look.

The beauty of vintage style sunglasses is that they blend in effortlessly with all kinds of modern indie, boho chic and festival outfits. Match them with floral dresses, solid rompers or even everyday jeans and tee combos. Express your unique personality by accessorizing with retro shades.