Pilot Glasses

The history of the Ray-Ban Aviator 

Pilot glasses – a classic model that is hard to imagine not sitting on the noses of the world. This eyeglass model was developed in 1936 by the American company Bausch & Lomb for pilots who were often exposed to glare when flying. In military aviation, the teardrop shape offered protection from the sun from all directions, when the pilots were doing battle in the air. The glasses were perfectly flush with the pilot’s helmet without actually touching it. The narrow frame and temple did not impede the field of view. In addition, the green lenses offered the best contrast when reading the cockpit instruments which at that time were red.

Today, all this is history: modern combat pilots now fly with full-face helmets. However, the Aviator glasses still survive thanks to their reputation from glorious aviation days,  having become an icon like the T-shirt or jeans. What initially was intended as protective goggles developed over the next decades into a hallmark for the cool and beautiful. The broad masses discovered the pilot glasses, above all, through the disco fashion of the 70s and 80s. The glasses even became a star on the screen when Tom Cruise wore them when he flew into a million hearts in “Top Gun”. With colour gradient lenses, the Aviator sunglasses are coming back with a bang.

Who do pilot glasses suit?

Pilot glasses have a rounded eyeglass shape and as opposites attract: pilot glasses let angular faces look softer and also accentuate oval faces. However, for round and heart-shaped faces, pilot glasses can be unflattering. This face shape should rather have a frame with square edges.

What kind of styling matches these frames?

This spectacle shape is extremely versatile and suits both men and women. You can combine it with any outfit. Mixing styles, like matching a masculine double bridge to a feminine long dress can give an interesting edge. And you can perfectly match the current trendy colourful mirrored glasses to colourful outfit styles.