Summer is just around the corner, which means it’s high time to treat yourself to a new pair of sunglasses to accessorise with your warm weather wardrobe. However, if you find yourself bored of this year’s high street styles, investing in vintage designer sunglasses is a great alternative. Despite the higher price point, choosing designer sunnies is worth the money because of their luxury, sturdy quality. Plus, when you opt for vintage frames, you’ll have access to a wide variety of timeless styles that can elevate any OOTD. If you’re new to the world of high-end brands, we’ve compiled this roundup of the top vintage designer sunglasses that we think would make a stylish new investment piece.
Vintage Gucci Sunglasses
As a true household name of the high-end fashion world, it’s really no surprise that Gucci is at the top of our list. Founded in 1921 by Guccio Gucci, the brand initially started out as a leather goods business in Italy, with horse saddles being one of their biggest sellers. Eventually, the product selection expanded to include leather shoes, silk goods and handbags, before finally transitioning to clothes and accessories. The iconic green and red stripe that we are familiar with today was introduced in 1951, but it wasn’t until the 1990s that Gucci started to design sunglasses - just as Tom Ford was at the helm of the market.
Gucci sunglasses have a notoriously chic, retro style, many of which are adorned with the brand’s signature interlocking G’s logo. Thes classic clubmaster frames from the 1980s are quintessentially Gucci - with stylish hints of tortoiseshell and gold detailing and dark lenses - providing an understatedly luxury look.
Vintage Versace Sunglasses
The House of Versace is known for its bold, luxury designs - all with a signature, high-end edge. With accessories as striking as its clothing, Versace is the brand for those wanting to make a statement.
Versace was founded in 1978 by up-and-coming designer Gianni Versace; today, their range spans from clothing and accessories all the way to fina china and even furniture. With offerings extending to both men’s and women’s sunglasses, these glamorous frames are all handcrafted in Italy. Perhaps the most recognisable vintage Versace sunglasses include the classic cat-eye frame, as well as the butterfly frame.
Vintage Burberry Sunglasses
A cornerstone of British style, Burberry exudes class and sophistication. Although primarily known for its rainwear, the brand has grown to supply clothing and accessories for all occasions. The Burberry print is unmistakable and timeless; one can’t feel high-class and refined when adorned with that signature chequered pattern!
Burberry glasses keep it simple whilst still managing to look beautiful and contemporary, whether they’re a vintage pair or not. They are universally flattering, and we’re not exaggerating when we say there’s a pair to suit everyone. The perfect sunglasses for those looking for understated glamour.
Vintage RayBan Sunglasses
Ray-Ban has become synonymous with high-quality sunglasses practically since it was founded in 1937. This iconic Italian-American brand has been influencing eyewear trends worldwide ever since.
Ray-Ban was created to cater to the needs of the U.S Air Force, who required sunglasses that protected their pilots’ eyes from UV rays whilst flying. They are known for popularising the aviator frame - a popularity that only skyrocketed with the release of Top Gun in 1986, in which Tom Cruise wore these Ray-Ban classics. These Olympian Aviators from the 1990s add a glamorous twist to the original frames, with tortoiseshell and gold detailing and straight arms for a sporty look.
Vintage Dior Sunglasses
This iconic fashion house was established in 1946 by Christian Dior, and gained prominence for popularising the hourglass shape post-WWII. Today, Dior is one of the most celebrated couture brands in the fashion industry.
The brand’s style is typically synonymous with opulence and bygone eras, drawing inspiration from classic shapes and silhouettes. This is just one of the reasons why, since its foundation, Dior has been ahead of the curve when it comes to setting trends, a sentiment that extends to their sunglasses designs. Ever the innovator, vintage Dior frames tend to stand out from the crowd - take these 1980s 2555’s with a unique sports-inspired frame and gradient UV lenses. There’s also the ultra-sleek shield style of sunglasses from the 90s; this particular design is notable for being worn by Lady Gaga.
Find Your New Favourite Summer Accessory with Ed & Sarna
To discover stylish designs from the brands listed above and much more, shop with Ed & Sarna. We travel across Europe and the USA to source vintage designer frames directly from old distribution firms, manufacturers and antique optometrists. We are passionate about supplying our customers with unique, statement-making styles. When you shop with Ed & Sarna, you can be sure that you’re investing in a luxury-quality piece that is sure to help you stand out from the crowd.
If you’re interested in some specific styles from our collection, why not take advantage of our home try on service or book an online consultation, where a member of our team can help you find your dream glasses or sunglasses. Alternatively, you can get in touch with us directly if you have any questions.
