If you were to have a discussion about brand name eyeglasses, it is more than likely that the most well-known company would be none other than Ray-Ban. In fact, it’s usually the first to be brought up in such a conversation! Especially with the rise of the popularity that glasses have recently obtained, stylish and funky designs are constantly being yearned for! Among the pioneers of fashionable eye-wear, they originally only produced sunglasses; however the last century has offered many developments in the range of designs and styles they now offer! With a matching pair of Ray-Bans eyeglasses and sunglasses, it’s very safe to say that they have certainly made a name for this popular company. It’s now truly a household name.
Ray-Ban, originally an American company, was founded in 1937 by Bausch & Lomb – the dominating supplier of optical-related material. The original focus of the company was directed only toward sunglasses production, and were requested personally by a military pilot. The original signature design were referred to as aviator sunglasses – after their target audience – and quickly became very popular among those crowds. Soon, the Ray-Ban aviators could be found on movie screens, and not just soldiers and pilots. By 1952, they created a new glasses style called wayfarer frames. As Ray-Ban initiated both the classic aviator [and wayfarer] glasses frame styles, aviator frames have since remained their most well-known piece to date. Furthermore, both of those designs have been picked up by the optical industry as an actual frame category.
The thing about popular fashion trends and statements is that they tend to get recycled every few decades… With this inevitability, aviators recently made a comeback, and wayfarers quickly followed! Since Ray-Ban’s have been around for so long, they weren’t always ranked number one within the optical industry. However, with the current re-popularity of both the aviator and wayfarer styles, it’s safe to say that they have successfully regained any kind of foothold within the last decade, that may have been lost before. Throughout the rise of the ‘Geek Chic’ phenomenon, thick plastic glasses frames have begun taking precedence to sleek metal frames. While the aviator was really trending a few years ago, it’s the wayfarer design that is all the rage as of late. Either way, it’s all attributed to Ray-Ban!
Luckily for all of your Ray-Ban enthusiasts, the famous brand can now be made into just about any style of prescription eyeglasses as well as their classic, sunglasses option. If you don’t already have an ongoing collection of brand-named items, it might be time for you to join in on all of the fun! When determining what to get, it’s important that you invest in a pair of glasses frames that will bring you style, comfort, affordability, and strength! Ray-Ban: never hide!
Elea Kalin is a fashion stylist – turned optical specialist. Her focus is on accessories and statement pieces – like prescription eyeglasses. She is currently working for GlassesUSA.com – the easiest way to buy glasses online, which now offers free shipping all over the US, with the code FreeShip10.