From the bustling streets of Milan to the sun-kissed shores of Sicily, Italian sunglasses have adorned the faces of style icons and trendsetters for decades. With a rich heritage steeped in innovation and elegance, these iconic accessories have transcended mere utility to become cultural symbols of sophistication and glamour.
Classic Italian sunglasses through the decades
The history of Italian sunglasses traces back to the early 20th century when visionary artisans began crafting eyewear with meticulous attention to detail. However, it wasn’t until the post-war era that Italy emerged as a powerhouse in the eyewear industry.
In the 1950s and 1960s, pioneering brands like Persol and Luxottica set the stage for Italian dominance, combining traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology to produce sunglasses of unparalleled quality.
The birth of iconic styles
Italy is the birthplace of iconic sunglasses styles that have stood the test of time. Among these, the Aviator, first introduced by American brand Ray-Ban, gained widespread popularity thanks to its sleek design and superior UV protection. However, it was Italian designers who elevated the Aviator to new heights of luxury, infusing it with exquisite materials and intricate detailing.
In the 1960s, the Wayfarer burst onto the scene, capturing the rebellious spirit of the era with its bold silhouette and distinct trapezoidal shape. Italian fashion houses embraced this trend, reimagining the Wayfarer with opulent embellishments and avant-garde flourishes. Today, this timeless style remains a staple in every fashion enthusiast’s collection.
The maximalist 1980s heralded the arrival of oversized sunglasses, epitomized by brands like Gucci and Versace. Characterized by large frames and exaggerated proportions, these OTT sunglasses exuded glamour and excess, reflecting the decadence of the decade. Italian designers embraced this trend wholeheartedly, creating oversized frames adorned with ornate logos and intricate patterns.
In recent years, retro round sunglasses have experienced a resurgence in popularity, drawing inspiration from the iconic styles of the 1960s and 1970s. Italian brands like Dolce & Gabbana and Prada have embraced this vintage aesthetic, infusing it with a modern twist to create sunglasses that are both nostalgic and contemporary.
The best Italian sunglasses brands for spring or summer
Gucci GG0712S Oversized Sunglasses
With their round, oversized frames, you’ll channel Jackie O-style glamour. Unmistakably Gucci thanks to the red and green stripe and signature GG logo, these Gucci sunglasses made in Italy will instantly elevate any ensemble with their iconic design and luxurious aesthetic.
Shop Gucci oversized sunglasses made in Italy
Ray-Ban Rb3447 Gold Round Metal Sunglasses Polarized
Crafted with Ray-Ban’s meticulous attention to detail, these timeless Italian sunglasses boast a sleek round metal frame in a luxurious gold finish, exuding a sense of elegance for him or her. The polarized lenses offer all-important clarity and protection, reducing glare and enhancing visual comfort.
Shop Ray-Ban gold metal polarized sunglasses
Versace Unisex Black Sunglasses VE4361 536087 53
Nailing the YK2 aesthetic, these black Versace sunglasses effortlessly blend turn-of-the-century style with contemporary flair. The Medusa logo looks bold on the sleek black arms, while the sculpted lenses add a futuristic edge to the design.
