Fashion trends come and go, but some accessories have the power to transcend decades, and few do it better than vintage eyewear. From oversized 1970s glam to sleek 1950s cat-eyes, retro sunglasses brands are now just as collectible as designer handbags or sneakers. These shades weren’t just functional, but they were also status symbols, artistic statements, and cultural icons. Whether you’re a fashion enthusiast or a niche collector, here are 10 retro sunglasses brands that continue to turn heads and fetch big bucks.
10. Neostyle
Neostyle gained status when Elvis Presley wore their “Nautic 2” model. These large frames became synonymous with ’70s flair. Today, vintage Neostyles are hot commodities for collectors who love bold statement pieces with celebrity history attached.
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9. Polaroid
Yes, the same company that made instant cameras also made sunglasses with polarized lenses in the 1930s. While later models became mass-produced, early Polaroid sunglasses were both stylish and functional. Their contribution to lens technology gives them a unique place among retro sunglasses brands.
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8. Oliver Goldsmith
A British favorite, Oliver Goldsmith was the go-to sunglasses designer for Audrey Hepburn, Grace Kelly, and Jackie O. His futuristic designs helped shape the look of the ‘60s. Many of his original designs have been reissued, but nothing beats finding an original pair in mint condition.
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7. Christian Dior
Dior’s move into eyewear in the 1950s and ‘60s resulted in some of the most glamorous retro sunglasses brands ever made. Think cat-eye frames with rhinestones, bold temples, and sophisticated curves. Authentic Dior sunglasses from this era are sought after not just for style but for craftsmanship.
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6. Foster Grant
In the 1960s, Foster Grant became a household name thanks to its “Who’s That Behind Those Foster Grants?” ad campaign. These affordable yet stylish shades were worn by Hollywood’s elite. Vintage pairs, especially those with dramatic shapes, are now in high demand among budget-conscious collectors.
5. Cazal
Bold, oversized, and unapologetically flashy, Cazal defined 1980s street style and became an essential in hip-hop fashion. Designed by Cari Zalloni, vintage Cazals are now some of the most wanted retro sunglasses brands thanks to their unique silhouettes.
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4. Vuarnet
This French brand rose to popularity in the 1960s, especially in the ski and surf scenes. Vuarnet lenses were praised for their clarity and UV protection. Today, collectors hunt down retro styles like the Glacier model, which had polarized shades with leather side shields that scream vintage alpine cool.
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3. American Optical
One of the oldest eyewear companies in the U.S., American Optical was the official supplier of sunglasses to U.S. military pilots. Their “Original Pilot” sunglasses were even worn on the Apollo 11 mission. American Optical frames from the mid-20th century are appreciated for their history, durability, and clean aviator lines.
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2. Persol
Founded in Italy in 1917, Persol gained recognition when Steve McQueen sported the folding 714 model in The Thomas Crown Affair. These sunglasses combined European luxury with practical design, and vintage models with the signature arrow hinge are especially valuable among collectors of retro sunglasses brands.
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1. Ray-Ban
Arguably the most iconic of all retro sunglasses brands, Ray-Ban introduced the Aviator in 1936 and the Wayfarer in 1952. Both styles became the definition of American cool, worn by everyone from James Dean to Tom Cruise. Vintage Ray-Bans with original Bausch & Lomb lenses are highly collectible, and their quality still holds up today.
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