Vintage Sunglasses

Ashley Martin
11 min readMar 17, 2024

--

Vintage-Sunglasses-1

Step into the world of retro style with our roundup of the best vintage sunglasses. From classic aviators to retro round frames, we’ve curated a selection of timeless designs that will add a touch of nostalgia to any outfit. Ready to make a statement with your eyewear? Dive into our collection and discover the perfect pair for you.

The Top 6 Best Vintage Sunglasses

  1. Vintage-Inspired Dark Sunglasses with UV Protection — Embrace 80s retro style with ShadyVEU’s super dark sunglasses, offering ultimate UV protection, perfect fit with spring hinges, and a choice of matte or glossy finish.
  2. Vintage-Inspired Sunglasses: Fun Retro Optix Style & Super Dark Lenses — Retro Horn Rimmed Sunglasses bring a classic 80s vibe to your look, with high-gloss black frames, non-polarized lenses, and the perfect blend of modern and vintage style. Enjoy these fun and affordable sunglasses at any occasion!
  3. Retro ’80s Vintage Sunglasses with Clear Red Frame — Elevate your retro style with these 80’s inspired Vintage Sunglasses, featuring plastic frames, polycarbonate lenses, non-polarized UV-protected clear lens, and a red color frame reminiscent of Owl’s head.
  4. Sheen Kelly Vintage Sunglasses: Retro Design and UV Protection — Step into the world of luxury fashion with Sheen Kelly’s Vintage Johnny Depp Round Sunglasses, offering superior UV protection, a distinctive design, and an all-rounder style for any occasion.
  5. Vintage Inspired Retro Horned Rim Sunglasses — Tortoise Brown — Experience the timeless style of vintage sunglasses with this tortoise brown horned rim pair, featuring 100% UV protection and iconic design.
  6. Retro-Inspired, Oversized Vintage Sunglasses — Elevate your style with the Rappers 80s 90s DJ Lonnie Oversized Vintage Retro Classic Sunglasses, offering superior UV400 protection and a perfect fit for most faces.

As an Amazon™ Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Reviews

🔗Vintage-Inspired Dark Sunglasses with UV Protection

shadyveu-super-dark-black-sunglasses-uv-protection-lens-spring-hinge-80s-vintage-retro-inspired-shad-1

I recently fell in love with the ShadyVEU Super Dark Black Sunglasses. The dark black wayfarer design was a refreshing change from the usual sunglasses I’d owned. What stood out to me was the option to choose between a soft matte finish and a glossy black finish, making these sunglasses perfect for any occasion.

The 80’s vintage-inspired shades not only look incredibly cool but also provide the ultimate privacy. The spring metal hinges ensure a comfortable fit for all head sizes, and the 100% UV protection is fantastic, especially on sunny days.

One downside, I wish the company had a wider selection of lens colors to choose from. But overall, I am thrilled with my purchase of the ShadyVEU sunglasses and the fact that I am supporting a small family-run business with a mission to give back.

🔗Vintage-Inspired Sunglasses: Fun Retro Optix Style & Super Dark Lenses

sunglasses-classic-80s-vintage-style-design-black-gloss-super-dark-1

I recently had the chance to try on the Classic 80s Vintage Style Design Sunglasses, and I must say, they’re a fun addition to any outfit! These sunglasses have a high gloss black finish that definitely adds a touch of sophistication to their retro design. The lenses are dark and smooth, perfect for protecting your eyes from harmful UV rays during sunny days. However, I wouldn’t recommend wearing them at night — they’re really dark!

The classic black frame is versatile and looks great on both men and women. And, as an added bonus, each pair comes with a kiss tag, making them a unique conversation starter at parties or events. But remember, they’re non-polarized, so if you need a specific lens type, you might want to consider a different pair.

Overall, these sunglasses are a fun and affordable way to add a touch of retro style to your wardrobe. Plus, their lightweight design makes them a great accessory for any casual outing. Give them a try and experience the timeless appeal of vintage sunglasses for yourself!

🔗Retro ’80s Vintage Sunglasses with Clear Red Frame

retro-style-sunglasses-80s-classic-vintage-unisex-nerd-colored-frame-owl-1

I’ve been sporting these Retro Style Sunglasses in my daily life, and they’re truly a sight for sore eyes. The 80’s Classic Vintage Unisex Nerd Colored Frame Owl’s design stands out from the crowd, making me feel like a stylish throwback to a bygone era.

One feature I appreciate is the plastic frame, which feels sturdy yet lightweight. The polycarbonate lens, though non-polarized, offers excellent UV Protection Coating, keeping my eyes safe from harmful rays. While they’re not the smallest at 55 millimeters in lens width, they somehow manage to fit comfortably on my face.

Of course, no product is perfect. The sunglasses could use better polarization, and perhaps a more secure nose bridge for a snugger fit. Despite these minor quibbles, I’ve been making quite the style statement with these Retro Style Sunglasses, and I’m sure you will too.

🔗Sheen Kelly Vintage Sunglasses: Retro Design and UV Protection

sheen-kelly-vintage-johnny-depp-round-sunglasses-tint-lens-nerd-colorful-eyewear-see-through-film-to-1

I recently tried on the ‘Sheen Kelly Vintage Johnny Depp Round Sunglasses’ and I must say, they’re quite the statement maker! These retro-styled glasses give me a cool, vintage vibe. It’s not often I come across a pair of sunglasses that are not only stylish but also functional — perfect for all those sunny outdoor adventures.

These Sheen Kelly sunnies came with a hand-wash-only care instruction, which seems like a gentle reminder to take care of this piece of eyewear and its unique tint lens. The lens blocks a whopping 100% of UVA and UVB radiation, keeping my eyes protected from the harsh sun. I can also attest to their high-quality materials. They’re surprisingly durable and can handle various weather conditions without any discomfort.

Their versatility is another plus. These sunglasses are not only great for outdoor activities like driving or hiking, but they also perfectly complement high fashion outfits. They’ve become my go-to accessory for every day, whether I’m running errands or heading out to a party.

However, I did notice one downside: if these glasses were to break, contacting the seller for a resolution could be a bit of a hassle. But with the quality and style, I think it’s a minor inconvenience to deal with. Overall, the Sheen Kelly Vintage Johnny Depp Round Sunglasses are a stylish and functional addition to my wardrobe.

🔗Vintage Inspired Retro Horned Rim Sunglasses — Tortoise Brown

vintage-inspired-retro-classic-horned-rim-sunglasses-tortoise-brown-1

I recently tried out these Vintage Inspired Retro Classic Horned Rim Sunglasses in Tortoise Brown and I must say, they exceeded my expectations. The tortoise brown frame gives off a vintage vibe that’s both trendy and timeless. One of the things that stood out to me was the 100% UV protection, which not only looks great but also ensures my eyes are safe from the sun’s harsh rays.

However, one downside was the delivery time, as it took longer than expected. But other than that, the sunglasses themselves were durable and comfortable to wear. They even fit a smaller face quite well, according to one of the reviews. Overall, I recommend these sunglasses to anyone looking for a stylish yet affordable option with great UV protection.

🔗Retro-Inspired, Oversized Vintage Sunglasses

rappers-80s-90s-dj-oversized-vintage-classic-retro-lonnie-sunglasses-1

I recently tried out these “Rappers 80s 90s DJ” sunglasses, and I must say, they stood out in a good way. The oversized vintage classic retro style truly gives them a unique look, with a throwback vibe that’s both cool and hip. One of my favorite features has to be the wide frame that fits most faces comfortably. I’ve tried them in various weather conditions, and I’m happy to report that the frame is not only durable but also flexible enough to withstand the elements.

Of course, every product has its pros and cons. While the UV400 protection is great for ensuring my eyes are protected from the sun’s harmful rays, I found the lenses to be a bit tinted during cloudy days. However, this is something I could easily get used to, given their otherwise remarkable features. Overall, these sunglasses have become a reliable and stylish addition to my daily life, and I can see myself reaching for them during the brightest days of summer.

Buyer’s Guide

Welcome to our buyer’s guide section for vintage sunglasses! In this guide, we’ll discuss the essential features to consider when purchasing vintage sunglasses, share some useful tips on how to find the best pair, and provide general advice for anyone interested in adding a touch of retro charm to their wardrobe.

Vintage-Sunglasses-2

Important Features to Consider

  1. Frame Style: Vintage sunglasses come in a wide variety of frame styles, such as aviator, wayfarer, round, and cat-eye. Consider the shape of your face and the overall look you’re aiming for when choosing a frame style. Remember, vintage sunglasses are all about making a statement, so don’t be afraid to go bold!

Frame Material

  1. Frame Material: Vintage sunglasses are often made from materials like acetate, celluloid, or even metal. Acetate frames are lightweight and flexible, while celluloid frames offer a more classic aesthetic. Metal frames, on the other hand, are durable and can give your sunglasses a more robust, retro feel. Think about which material suits your personal style and preferences.
Vintage-Sunglasses-3

Lens Type

  1. Lens Type: Polycarbonate lenses are a popular choice for vintage sunglasses because they are lightweight and offer excellent UV protection. Glass lenses, while heavier, are often found in higher-end vintage sunglasses and can provide better optical clarity and durability. Consider your budget, as well as your preferences for weight and optical quality, when selecting the right lens for your vintage sunglasses.

General Advice and Tips

  1. Authenticity: If you’re looking for genuine vintage sunglasses, be prepared to invest more time and money in your search. Look for vintage sunglasses from reputable dealers, inspect them carefully for wear and tear, and research the brand and model history to ensure you’re getting an authentic pair. Don’t be fooled by replicas that may look similar but lack the genuine character and craftsmanship of true vintage sunglasses.
Vintage-Sunglasses-4

FAQ

What makes sunglasses vintage?

Vintage sunglasses are those that were produced during a certain era or have a timeless design that has lasted many years. These sunglasses often have unique features and styles that were popular during their time of production. Some common characteristics of vintage sunglasses include round or oval lenses, metal frames, and intricate designs.

Vintage sunglasses are a popular choice for those who appreciate classic styles and want to stand out from the crowd. They also make excellent conversation starters and can add a touch of vintage charm to any outfit. Many vintage sunglasses are still in excellent condition and can be worn daily, while others may be collectors’ items that are displayed and enjoyed as a piece of fashion history.

Vintage-Sunglasses-5

What are some popular vintage sunglass styles?

There are many popular vintage sunglass styles that have stood the test of time. Some of the most iconic include aviators, wayfarers, and cat-eyes. Aviators, which are characterized by their teardrop-shaped lenses, were first introduced by Ray-Ban in the 1930s and have since become a classic style. Wayfarers, another Ray-Ban design, feature a rectangular frame and were first introduced in the 1950s. Cat-eyes, which have a pointy corner on the top of the frame, were introduced in the 1950s by designer Jack Rodgers and have remained a popular choice for vintage sunglass enthusiasts.

Other vintage sunglass styles that have gained popularity over the years include round sunglasses, which were popular in the 1960s, and square sunglasses, which were popular in the 1980s. These styles have been re-introduced by many modern designers, but they still retain their vintage charm and appeal.

Where can I find vintage sunglasses?

There are many places where you can find vintage sunglasses, both online and offline. Some popular options include specialized vintage stores, eBay, Etsy, and other online marketplaces. These sites often have a wide variety of vintage sunglasses from different eras and styles, and you can usually find something that suits your taste and budget.

If you prefer to shop in person, you may want to check out local vintage stores, flea markets, or thrift shops in your area. Many of these stores carry a selection of vintage sunglasses, and you may be lucky enough to find a hidden gem that is just waiting to be rediscovered. Don’t be afraid to ask the staff for recommendations or advice on how to care for your new vintage sunglasses.

Vintage-Sunglasses-6

How much do vintage sunglasses cost?

The cost of vintage sunglasses can vary widely depending on the age, condition, and rarity of the sunglasses. Some vintage sunglasses can be quite affordable, while others can be quite expensive, particularly if they are rare or in excellent condition. Factors that can affect the cost of vintage sunglasses include the brand, the model, and the popularity of the style at the time of production.

If you are looking for a budget-friendly option, you may want to consider shopping at a thrift store or flea market where vintage sunglasses can often be found for a fraction of the cost of a new pair. If you are looking for a higher-end option, you may want to consider shopping from specialized vintage stores or online marketplaces where you can find more expensive, collectible sunglasses.

How do I care for my vintage sunglasses?

Caring for your vintage sunglasses is essential to ensure that they maintain their quality and value over time. Here are some tips on how to care for your vintage sunglasses:

  1. Avoid getting your sunglasses wet, as this can damage the hinges and break the frames. If you do get your sunglasses wet, make sure to dry them immediately with a soft cloth.
  2. Store your sunglasses in a hard case or pouch to prevent scratches and other damage. This will also help to protect the lenses and frames from dust, dirt, and other debris that can damage your sunglasses while they are not in use. 3. Clean your sunglasses regularly with a soft, microfiber cloth. This will help to remove any dirt, dust, or smudges that may have accumulated on the lenses or frames.

Are vintage sunglasses still in fashion?

Yes, vintage sunglasses are still in fashion and have become a popular choice for many people who appreciate classic styles and want to stand out from the crowd. Many vintage sunglasses have been re-introduced by modern designers, but they still retain their vintage charm and appeal. Vintage sunglasses are often associated with a sense of nostalgia and can add a touch of glamour to any outfit.

Whether you are looking for a vintage sunglasses to wear every day or to add to your collection, there are many great options available. With a little bit of research and some patience, you can find the perfect pair of vintage sunglasses that will suit your style and budget. So, why not explore the world of vintage sunglasses and see what you can discover?

As an Amazon™ Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

--

--