How did a brand that started by making eyewear for pilots become a global fashion icon? For almost 100 years Ray-Ban has embodied timeless style, innovation, and cultural significance. From the teardrop-shaped Aviator to the angular Wayfarer, Ray-Ban is a major eyewear brand, offering styles that are regarded as classic trendsetters. These iconic models have not only made the brand famous but have also influenced how the world sees Ray-Ban prescription glasses and sunglasses.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the history of Ray-Ban, from its inception in the early 1930s to its current position as a dominant figure in eyewear fashion.
The Birth of Ray-Ban and the Aviators
Ray-Ban’s story began in the 1930s when the U.S. Army Air Corps needed eyewear for pilots that could reduce glare at high altitudes. Bausch & Lomb, an American eyewear company, developed the Ray-Ban Aviator in 1936 to solve this problem. The Aviator featured large, teardrop-shaped lenses and a lightweight, gold-plated metal frame. Originally designed for military use, the Aviator’s appeal quickly spread to the civilian population due to its practical design and stylish appearance.
The classic teardrop shape of the Aviator provided effective coverage and protection from the sun’s rays, leading to high demand among civilians when soldiers returned home wearing them.
The Aviator’s popularity rose in the following decades as it became an iconic style in popular culture. They were featured in Hollywood films like Top Gun, making its status and stature as a must-have accessory. Aviators became a symbol of rebellion, adventure and fashion that doesn’t follow trends, but rather sets them.
The Introduction of Wayfarer and its Cultural Significance
In the 1950s, Ray-Ban took a bold step away from the Aviator’s classic style metal frames, introducing a new style that would become just as iconic: the Wayfarer. Launched in 1952, the Wayfarer had thick plastic frames and an angular shape. This was very different from the teardrop Aviators. The bold design showed a shift towards modern and innovative eyewear trends.
Popular celebrities wore Wayfarer sunglasses in films. Both men and women of different ages liked the new style. The simple design and rebellious attitude represented the 1950s and 60s – a time of social change and breaking traditions.
The trend of wearing Wayfarers had started fading in the 80s and that it when Ray-Ban came up with smart product placement in famous films like The Blues Brothers and Tom Cruise dancing in his Wayfarers in Risky Business helped the style stay in demand.
Ray-Ban’s Enduring Legacy and Expansion
Ray-Ban has remained popular for over eight long decades; thanks to its timeless, classic designs and a clear understanding of the evolving world. The brand keeps updating its product line while maintaining its commitment to quality and style. For example, the Aviator and Wayfarer have been updated in terms of materials, colours and lens technology, while preserving their classic design elements.
Ray-Ban’s expansion to include a variety of styles, such as Clubmasters, round frames and a huge range of prescription glasses, reflects its dedication to quality and innovation in the eyewear industry. The brand’s global appeal is evident in its diverse audience, from A-list celebrities to regular people across the world. Ray-Ban has become more than just a brand; it is a cultural symbol representing individuality, authenticity, and a sense of adventure.
Where to shop Ray-Ban prescription glasses and sunglasses
If you are looking for branded eyewear and eye care products, ensure that you are shopping from an authorised retailer. Feel Good Contacts is an official distributor of major eyewear brands, including Ray-Ban.
Ray-Ban Aviator RX6489 2501 55 Silver
Ray-Ban Wayfarer Ease RX4340V 8223 50 Transparent Dark Blue
Explore a wide range of Ray-Ban prescription glasses and sunglasses along with other eye care essentials like contact lenses, solutions and eye drops at competitive prices. At Feel Good Contacts, you can also turn your favourite pair of glasses into prescription sunglasses; so, you don’t have to worry about your vision when out and about in the sun.
Also Read: The Past, Present, and Future of Ray-Ban: Where Is The Eyewear Giant Headed?
