Just kidding =)
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For many fighter pilots during the World War II era, constant sunlight exposure during their flight resulted in permanent eye damage. Keeping the growing trend in mind, researchers from Bausch and Lomb (the former owners of “Ray-Ban“) developed an anti-glare lens and framed it with gold plated metal. They called these particular type of sunglasses, “The Aviator”–a.k.a stunna shades (but who really calls it by that name nowadays?).
You’ve seen Mac Dre making “thizz” faces with them on. Heck, you’ve probably seen everyone who’s “gigged” a day in their life wear a pair of these (Please note that I’m making Bay Area references. If you have no idea what I’m talking about, it’s ok hehe). I remember when everyone had a pair of these back in high school. I’m sure you all did! In all honesty, I’m laughing a little as I write this…I think the whole “stunna shade” thing is a little ridiculous now that I think about it, but hey, it was fashionable way back when–scrunched face and all.
Never thought I’d see him on our page, but thanks to Mac Dre and many other artists like him, these sunglasses escalated to more than just a cool way to block sunlight, it became a fashion phenomenon in the Bay Area when “hyphy” music reached its peak.
Mac Dre (RIP)
Aside from its Bay Area influences, the Aviator is one of the most popular sunglasses to be worn. Celebs from all over can be seen wearing them! Also, tying with the Wayfarer (another entry in the works), it’s been noted that the “Aviator” is the best selling pair of sunglasses in history. Check it out in these pictures!!!
Now that the Aviator’s been introduced, keep up with the site to read on the Aviator’s more polished and sleek cousin, the “Wayfarer”.
-Agnes
