Iconic Thunder Sunglasses from 80s Movie Days of Thunder | 80s Style

The Iconic Sunglasses from Days of Thunder

In the hit 1980s movie Days of Thunder starring Tom Cruise, his character Cole Trickle wears a distinctive pair of sunglasses that became iconic from the film. With their teardrop shape and neon orange tint, Cole's thunder sunglasses encapsulated the flashy excess of 80s fashion and became a recognizable symbol of the era.

The Stylish Sunglasses of the 1980s

Sunglasses took on an increasingly stylish role in the 1980s, becoming a key accessory in fashion. Pop culture icons helped fuel the popularity of sunglasses, with movie characters and musicians wearing bold, attention-grabbing shades. This aligned with the materialism and bright, flashy aesthetics that defined so much of the 80s.

Against this backdrop, Cole Trickle's thunder sunglasses made an impact when Days of Thunder premiered in 1990. Tom Cruise was already a huge star at the time, so his character's fashion choices influenced many fans. The neon orange lenses and angular shape captured a sporty, race car driver look that people wanted to emulate.

The Origin of the Thunder Sunglasses

In the movie, Cole wears the sunglasses when he competes in high-stakes stock car races. The orange tint improved visibility while driving, especially in glare and direct sunlight. This practical advantage for racers led to the sunglasses being dubbed "thunder" sunglasses, after the film's title.

Product placement became increasingly common through the 1980s, with brands paying film studios to feature their merchandise on screen. However, the thunder sunglasses were created specifically for Days of Thunder without an official branding tie-in. This gave them a bespoke, custom-made appeal that added to their cool, exclusive vibe.

The Legacy of Thunder Sunglasses

After the massive box office success of Days of Thunder, thunder sunglasses quickly reached iconic status. The sports sunglasses industry took off, with many racing-inspired, angular wrap-around models hitting stores. Neon and colored tints also became a signature 80s look inspired partly by Cole's shades.

To this day, thunder sunglasses remain synonymous with 80s retro style. Their association with high-speed racing carries rebellious, edgy connotations. When musicians, celebrities and athletes want to channel the decade's adventurous fashion, a pair of thunder sunglasses is a go-to accessory.

Thunder sunglasses distill both the flashy materialism and carefree, reckless attitude that defined the 80s for many people. They symbolize the boldness and vibrancy of the era through their unusual angular shape and vivid orange lenses. Even for those born decades after Days of Thunder came out, the iconic sunglasses evoke nostalgia for the 1980s.

Bringing Back 80s Style

After years out of the spotlight, 80s fashion has made a comeback in recent years. A wave of nostalgia for the loud prints, bright colors and bold accessories has hit the fashion world. Thunder sunglasses fit perfectly with this retro trend.

Modern takes on the classic wrap-around racing shape and colored lenses capture the 80s vibe. This allows anyone to add some high-speed rebel flair to their look. Beyond fashion, thunder sunglasses are a wearable symbol of the decade, giving off instant 80s credentials.

Much like Cole Trickle tearing up the track in Days of Thunder, thunder sunglasses make a statement. They convey the excess, excitement and vibrancy of 80s style in a single accessory. So for a blast from the past, grab a pair of thunder sunglasses and feel the need for speed and 80s nostalgia.

FAQs

Where can I buy thunder sunglasses?

Many retailers like Amazon, eBay, and 80s nostalgia shops sell thunder style sunglasses. Look for neon orange, wrap-around racing designs to capture the iconic Days of Thunder look.

How can I create an 80s look with thunder sunglasses?

Pair thunder sunglasses with other bold 80s trends like acid wash denim, leather jackets, high-top sneakers, fingerless gloves, and big hair for an authentic retro vibe.

What makes thunder sunglasses different from other 80s sunglasses?

The neon orange tint, angular wraparound shape, and origin from the movie Days of Thunder set thunder sunglasses apart as one of the most recognizable 80s sunglass styles.

Why were thunder sunglasses popular in the 80s?

Thunder sunglasses captured the bold, flashy aesthetic of 1980s fashion. Tom Cruise's star power in Days of Thunder made the sunglasses an iconic symbol of the era's excessive style.

Are thunder sunglasses good for driving?

The original racing design improved visibility for drivers. Modern takes on the style still offer UV protection and glare reduction good for driving.