Aviators
Aviator sunglasses date as far back as 1936 when Rayban developed them for sale to the military. After wide spread demand the style was made available to the general public. History states that this occured two years later in 1938. Classic aviators are characterized by a tear drop shaped lens and wire frame. Originally designed for use while flying they mimicked the shape of flying goggles worn by the military at the time they were originally developed. The lenses are quite large and often have a slight rounding in them to provide as much protection from light as possible.
Aviators have evolved over the years and are now referred to as a general style of sunglass. Not all lenses are tear drop shaped anymore, nor are they all metal in construction. This sunglass style is perhaps the most timeless and has seen it’s popularity rise and fall, but never disappear, over the past several decades.
Some aviator style glasses are now available with polarized lenses. Polarized sunglasses are an excellent choice for the average person however true aviators, or pilots, should not wear polarized lenses while flying. The glare reduction that polarized lenses offer can actually obscure a pilot’s ability to read his instrument panel and see reflections off of other aircraft.
This large lens style of sunglasses has been popular with celebrities and now can be seen on tabloid covers around the world. Available in various colors and finishes the glasses can provide not only a disguise for celebrities who wish not to be noticed but also the opportunity to make a fashion statement for those that do.