Wayfarer Eyeglasses and Sunglasses Will Always be a Timeless Style

Eyeglasses are no longer just a matter of medical necessity, but a mark of style and individual expression. When it’s time to purchase a pair of designer eyeglass frames, many glasses wearers consider both the usefulness and stylistic appeal of their eyewear. The last few decades have seen the introduction of many forms of glasses, including cat-eye, browline, aviator, clubmaster, Ray-Ban wayfarers and more. One popular eyeglass frame style commonly known as the “wayfarer,” has made countless comebacks in stylistic expression and proves to be a classic and timeless frame.

Wayfarer sunglasses for men were introduced in the 1950’s by Raymond Stegeman of Ray-Ban. Artists like James Dean, Buddy Holly and Bob Dylan popularized the style, and it became a symbol of rebellion among the youth. The rebellious anti-hero, post war sentiments represented by youth who sported leather jackets and Levi jeans, were also armed with the mysterious and defying Ray-Ban wayfarers. The shape of the wayfarer was sometimes compared to the peaked fins of the 1950’s cadillac, but it was the reflective nature of the eyeglass frame that made it appear dangerous. The frame’s UV protection had the unintended effect of hiding the wearer’s eyes. It’s mirror-like reflection keeps the eyes of the individual covered and creates an aura of mystery – something that was not seen in previous generations of eyeglass frames. 

The distinctive trapezoidal form of wayfarers were first made of the moldable material acetate. Originally marketed to men, soon after it hit the market women were quick to embrace this style, making it a fashion norm for both genders. This style of eyewear contains shark fin shaped temples, metal rivets on endpoints, and the popular trapezoidal shape. In many cases, it can be purchased as both eyeglasses and sunglasses, like our Dylan sunglasses shown below.

Over the decades, the Ray-ban wayfarer would experience rise and falls in popularity. It came back on the scene again in the 1980’s when Tom Cruise wore them in the movie Risky Business. Other artists like Madonna, Jack Nicholson, Don Henley have paid their respects to this classic eyeglass frame and continued to keep its memory alive and well in the mind of American consumers. Today wayfarer glasses can be seen on anyone -- from juvenile high school students to prolific tech entrepreneurs.

Designer-Inspired Wayfarer Reading Glasses and Sunglasses for the Whole Family

If you are interested in purchasing great looking reading glasses, check out our online catalog to see the latest styles. Sort by type, shape and style to narrow down to our wayfarer eyeglass frame styles for the whole family!