Without doubt the most popular style in designer sunglasses, the Ray Ban aviators are a legend in their own. Introduced in the mid 1930’s, they have captured the fancy of many a fashion lover and today, the classic teardrop shape is one of the most copied styles in the history of sunglasses. Apart from Ray Ban, other brands like Gucci, Prada, Versace etc have also incorporated the aviator style in their sunglasses collections- Gucci 1622/S being a popular example. So, if you are one of those religious fashion followers, I bet you
(especially the menfolk) own at least one pair of aviator sunglasses! And if you don’t, then go buy a pair. Believe me, not only will your confidence and style change for the better but also people around will be throwing envious glances at you. And yes, it really makes a hot impression on the opposite sex!

Anyways, whether you buy them or not, it becomes imperative for me to enlighten you all on the spectacular history of the Ray Ban aviators. The stories of many top brands have been kinda chequered but for Ray Ban, it has been up, up and away! (Superman!)

So, how did it all start? Back in the 1930’s, fighter pilots found that the bright glares from the sun were becoming a major impediment in their military pursuits. However the sunglasses manufactured in those days were rarely used by pilots. Why? Because the traditional designs used in them were hardly of any benefit during combat. Then in 1936, Ray Ban
introduced a new tear drop shaped sunglasses for military pilots- these were the first aviators.

In 1938 this new style was launched for the general public and it quickly became the rage when many celebrities started flaunting them. It became a favorite with the American people when in WWII, several snaps of General Douglas Mc Arthur wearing  Ray Ban aviators appeared in various newspapers.

Slowly and surely, aviator sunglasses became a global icon and a status symbol. In the 1960s and 80s, one could find tabloids splashed with pictures of supermodels, movie stars and sports personalities showing off their aviators. The late king of pop, Michael Jackson made them famous through his music videos. And who can forget Tom Cruise looking super- cool in ‘Top Gun’ with his Ray Ban 3025 shades?

Today, one can see aviator sunglasses in nearly every part of the world. They’re the most preferred style with heyday celebrities and Lindsay Lohan, Megan Fox, Will Smith are some who swear by them. They’re a huge hit with law-enforcement officials because of the superb anti-glare function that they offer. And of course they are the most loved by regular folks like
you and me because of their unbeatable style statement.