The Complete History and Style Guide to Hooper Glasses

The History of Hooper Glasses

Hooper glasses, also known as hoopers or loopers, have a long and storied history. These unique eyewear frames feature large round or teardrop shaped lenses that are connected by a bridge over the nose. Often made from plastic or lightweight metal, hooper glasses stand out for their oversized and eye-catching look.

The exact origins of hooper glasses are hard to pinpoint. However, they first became popular in the 18th and 19th centuries. During the Regency era, similar large round spectacles were commonly depicted in portraits and paintings. These early versions featured lenses made from glass and frames constructed from metals like steel or silver.

The Rise of Plastic Hooper Glasses

Early hooper glasses were costly and uncomfortable to wear for long periods. The rise of plastics transformed the accessibility and affordability of this iconic style. In the 1920s, manufacturers began producing plastic frames modeled after vintage metallic hoopers. The lightness, durability, and low cost of plastic made the distinctive look attainable for the average consumer.

During the 1950s and 60s, oversized hooper glasses experienced a surge in popularity. Hollywood stars like Audrey Hepburn and Marilyn Monroe famously wore big plastic hoopers both on and off-screen. Their iconic appearances sparked widespread public fascination with the retro glasses. Ray-Ban capitalized on the craze by manufacturing its own line of branded hoopers.

Hooper Glasses in Modern Fashion

Though they fell out of favor in the 1970s and 80s, hooper glasses made a comeback around 2010. Like other retro trends, hoopers offered a vintage-inspired statement look. As streetwear and 1990s style took off, these glasses aligned perfectly with in-vogue outfit aesthetics.

Today, hooper glasses are available from high-end designers as well as mass retailers. From embellished cat-eye hoopers to round Lennon-style frames, there are many modern takes on this iconic shape. Contemporary materials like ultra-lightweight metals and advanced plastics improve comfort and wearability.

Popular Styles of Hooper Glasses

From vintage-inspired wire frames to cat-eye silhouettes, there is no singular type of hooper glasses. Here are some of the most common styles you may come across:

Round Wire Hoopers

Featuring perfectly circular lenses in simple wire or thin metal frames, these are the most quintessential hooper glasses. They resemble early 20th century pince-nez and lorgnette eyewear. Lightweight materials like titanium keep them comfortable for daily wear.

Oversized Plastic Hoopers

Following the trend sparked by 1950s starlets, these hooper glasses have very large, round plastic lenses set in thick acrylic frames. They make a bold statement and stand out from the crowd. Oversized hoopers come in every color and sometimes feature mirrored or tinted lenses.

Teardrop or Cat-Eye Hoopers

A modern twist on round hoopers, these glasses have a cat-eye silhouette. The top of the frame outlines an upswept curve, making the lenses appear teardrop shaped. Slim metal or plastic frames outline the exterior of the lenses. Celebrity influencers have made cat-eye hooper glasses an Instagram favorite.

Where to Buy Hooper Glasses

Today, you can find hooper glasses at specialty eyewear boutiques, designer brands, and major retailers. Here are some top places to buy hoopers:

Online Eyeglass Retailers

For convenience and affordable prices, skipping the optician is a smart option. Retailers like EyeBuyDirect, GlassesUSA, and Warby Parker sell hoopers alongside all their other stylish frames. You can browse inventory online to find colors and shapes you like.

Vintage and Resale Stores

Searching vintage shops can uncover authentic hoopers from past decades. Depending on condition, these retro specimens channel old Hollywood glamor or 1970s quirk. Places like Etsy and eBay are goldmines for finding unique secondhand hoopers.

Luxury Designer Brands

Couture houses like Prada, Versace, and Miu Miu interpret the hooper trend through a high fashion lens. These luxury takes feature sleek metals, crystal accents, and elevated finishes. The attention to detail reflects their staggering price tags.

Whether you seek an affordable statement piece or investment designer accessory, there are hooper glasses to match your personal tastes. From vintage shops to online retailers, you have plenty of places to source these iconic circular frames.

FAQs

What are hooper glasses?

Hooper glasses feature large, circular lenses connected by a bridge over the nose. They are also known as hoopers or loopers. Their oversized, round lenses give them a retro look.

When did hooper glasses become popular?

Similar large, round spectacles first emerged in the late 1700s. Hooper glasses rose to widespread popularity in the 1950s and 1960s thanks to Hollywood stars like Audrey Hepburn wearing them. They had another revival around 2010 as part of the vintage fashion trend.

What frames are hooper glasses available in?

Modern hooper glasses come in lightweight metals like titanium or plastic acrylic. Some have embellishments like crystals or an upswept cat-eye frame shape. Vintage hoopers feature silver, steel, or plastic frames.

Where can I buy hooper glasses?

Today you can find hooper glasses at many major retailers, designer brands, online stores like EyeBuyDirect, and vintage shops on Etsy or eBay.