Retro sunglasses: the best styles from the 1920s and 1930s

Retro sunglasses are not just a style statement or an example of how designers played with shapes and colors to create unique pieces. They are a window into the eras that defined elegance and sophistication.

When talking about retro sunglasses, we can't overlook the trends of the 1920s and 1930s, two crucial decades in the evolution of eyewear. These years marked the rise of sunglasses as a fashion accessory, reflecting the spirit of the time—from Hollywood glamour to the functionality of aviation pioneers.

Today, vintage design is more popular than ever. Major brands have successfully reinterpreted these iconic models, blending nostalgia with innovation. But what were the most representative styles of these decades?

The birth of glamour in sunglasses during the 1920s

The Roaring Twenties ushered in the modern era, shifting away from the rigid fashion of the 19th century and embracing creative freedom. The influence of art deco, silent films, and high society drove the first iconic sunglasses designs.

Round glasses with thin temples

One of the most popular styles of the decade was round metal frames, inspired by the eyewear worn by intellectuals and artists of the time. These glasses featured:

• Lightweight materials, such as gold-plated metal and silver.
• Association with the upper class and cultural elite, worn by silent film stars and jazz icons.

Sunglasses with art deco details

The art deco movement shaped the aesthetics of the time, favoring geometric lines, contrasting colors, and gold accents. In eyewear, this resulted in frames with engraved decorations and more stylized shapes.

Common art deco features included:

• Oval and hexagonal frames for a bold, modern look.
• Dark acetate materials, an early innovation in eyewear design.

Functionality and sophistication in the 1930s

The 1930s brought a more structured approach to fashion, including optical design. Aviation and Hollywood cinema had a major impact on sunglasses, leading to more refined and elegant styles.

Aviator sunglasses: from the cockpit to mainstream fashion

This iconic aviator design was originally developed to protect the eyes of Air Force pilots but quickly gained popularity in Hollywood and beyond—a trend that continued with movies like Top Gun.

Key features of 1930s aviator sunglasses:

• Large, wraparound lenses to block intense sunlight.
• Ultra-lightweight metal frames in gold or silver, offering a sophisticated yet bold aesthetic.

Cat-eye sunglasses: the rise of feminine sophistication

By the late 1930s, eyewear began to differentiate between genders, leading to sleeker, more daring styles for women. One of the standout styles of the era was the cat-eye frame. While this design became immensely popular in the 1950s, it had its first major moment in the 1930s.

Defining features of early cat-eye sunglasses:

• Elevated corners, accentuating facial expressions.
• Bold color choices, including red and tortoiseshell patterns.

Looking to the past to create the future

Today, designs inspired by the 1920s and 1930s are more alive than ever. Luxury brands and independent designers have rediscovered the beauty of these classic silhouettes, incorporating modern materials, high-quality lenses, and advanced technology.

This revival is deeply connected to nostalgic appeal, as consumers seek vintage-inspired accessories with a unique character. At the same time, brands are reinventing these classic models using sustainable processes, incorporating eco-friendly materials and recycled elements.

Retro sunglasses are not just an aesthetic reference but a testament to how design and functionality have evolved over time. Today, brands and designers continue to honor these golden decades of eyewear, ensuring that the legacy of the 1920s and 1930s remains as vibrant as ever.

At Pinkadillac, we help optical and fashion brands expand internationally and establish their presence in key markets. If you’re ready to take your retro-inspired eyewear collection to the next level, contact us and let’s make history together.