If there was ever a timeless fashion trend that has stayed prevalent throughout the years, it would have to be men’s streetwear glasses. These fashion-forward items have the power to transform any outfit and give it an edgy, polished look unlike any other. As versatile as they are stylish, glasses can be worn indoors and outdoors and look great with any dress style.
The History of Streetwear Glasses
What started as a functional necessity to improve vision in the 13th century, has evolved to become a symbol of fashion expression in the 21st century. The first wearable pair featured a primitive combination of lenses, which were held together by either a metal bridge or an animal horn.
Fast forward to the 1950s, they had become increasingly popular among the youth, particularly within youth subcultures such as rockstars and beatniks. During this period, Hollywood stars also helped popularise the trend by wearing them both on-screen and off-screen. These are the predecessors to the modern streetwear glasses for men that we know today.
What Are the Different Types of Men’s Glasses?
Nowadays, there’s no shortage of variety in terms of streetwear glasses for men, with a plethora of options to suit all styles and personalities. Some have become staples in the fashion world, and some remain ever-changing with the trends.
Vintage-Inspired
History has a remarkable way of repeating itself, and this is especially true when it comes to classic vintage-inspired frames. These timeless eyeglasses have a minimalist, yet distinct look that’s versatile enough to wear with casual and formal outfits alike.
Their shape is usually rounded with a slightly wider frame to give them a retro vibe. Their soft-edged frames offer more of a subtle look and they come in a spectrum of colours, from black to tortoiseshell to navy blue.
Clear-Framed
What is perhaps the most contemporary of all men’s streetwear sunglasses are clear-framed designs. These lightweight models have a clear, thin frame that doesn’t detract from the lenses, giving them a trendy and subtle look.F
Given their see-through design, they give off the illusion of being smaller and more delicate, perfect for anyone who likes to keep it low-key. Plus, the clear construction allows you to coordinate your frames easily with any colour scheme.
Half-Rimmed
Have you ever seen glasses with a metal frame and lenses that seem to bleed together at the bottom, with no visible separation? This is essentially what a half-rimmed frame is all about.
These frames are slightly thinner at the bottom than they are on top, and the bridge of the nose and temples are the only parts of the frame that you can see. They complement any face shape and provide an unobstructed view, leaving more room to appreciate the natural beauty of your eyes.
Tortoiseshell
These models take their name from the way they look – like shells, with a combination of dark and light brown mottled patterns on their frames. In fact, up until the 1970s, they were made from the shells of turtles.
But given the harmful implications of such harvesting, manufacturers have since resorted to using plastic or acetate for their frames. They offer a chic and luxurious look with warm, muted colours that are perfect for any season.
Thick-Rimmed
These chunky and quite large frames are an ideal way to make a bold statement. If you want your sunglasses to be the centre of attention, these pronounced and oversized frames can do exactly that.
Their most noteworthy feature is their thick profile, which is typically made of either metal or plastic. It serves as a blank canvas to showcase a variety of vibrant and eye-catching shades and patterns.
Wayfarer
These iconic frames are recognised all around the world, thanks to the popularisation of the style by Hollywood stars in the 1950s and 60s. Wayfarers have a square-shaped frame with slightly curved edges, offering an elongated and more serious look.
Their distinct construction and shape make them an excellent choice for any occasion. Pair them with bright colours to pick up on the vintage aesthetic of their design, or go with a classic black model for an ageless vibe.
Aviator
These teardrop-shaped frames are another vintage-inspired design that’s been around for decades. The aviator frames are designed to mimic the shape of a pilot’s goggles and provide more coverage, often going all the way down to your cheeks.
They come in a range of materials, from gold or silver metal to plastic frames and lenses in different colours. Their dashing and appealing vibe is certainly appealing, and they’re practical for everyday activities too.
How to Take Care of Your Glasses
Regardless of which style you choose, the most crucial thing is to make sure that your glasses are properly cared for. This means regularly cleaning them with a soft cloth to remove any dirt or dust, as well as avoiding contact with abrasive materials and surfaces.
Once you’ve brushed away any dirt, you should also use a cleaning spray formulated specifically for eyewear. This will help to keep your lenses in pristine condition and free from smudges. Store them in a protective case when you’re not wearing them to avoid scratches and other damage.
