Eight Most Popular Sunglasses From the 80s

Must-Buy Popular Sunglasses From the 80s


The 1980s was the era of larger-than-life, funky, bold, and loud things. It was the age when individuals were not hesitant to try new things to stand apart from the rest. Whether one was a celebrity or a musician, everyone was clad in baggy sweatshirts to vibrant leggings.


It's no surprise that popular sunglasses from the 80s were not so subtle. And, despite the current era's emphasis on minimalist fashion, several popular sunglasses from the 80s are still trending. Let's take a brief look at them; who knows, you might find yourself a stunning pair.


Curated List of Popular Sunglasses From the 80s


The popular sunglasses from the 80s will allow you to reflect your style. Moreover, they will accentuate every outfit you wear them with. The best part is that they are unisex and add the right amount of drama to your look. So, whether you're a man or a woman, don't be afraid to experiment with the popular sunglasses from the 80s that may be a little flashy. After all, these are the sunglasses that made celebs like Marylin Monroe and Matthew Broderick fashion icons. Let's look at popular sunglasses from the 80s to get that retro mood going.

White Framed Sunglasses

If you want something in between bizarre neon tones and bland brown frames, these are arguably the most popular sunglasses from the 80s. Not only do the white-framed sunglasses offer a calming influence, but they also go nicely with almost any ensemble. This is the ultimate all-year-round pick, and celebrities like Emma Roberts always don it. So, whether you want a chic look in the summer or a smart look on New Year's Eve, white framed sunglasses will be helpful. To meet your preferences, they are available in various styles ranging from cat-eye to sweet-heart.

80s sunglasses

Triangle Frame Sunglasses

Do you want to imitate Billie Eilish's edgy vibe? Then consider investing in a pair of punk-styled triangular sunglasses. These popular sunglasses from the 80s is the improvised version of the cat-eye sunglasses that debuted in the 50s and 60s. Wear these shades in a crowd; I'm sure you won't go unnoticed. This design looks great with boho clothes, but it also works well with casual attire. This 1980s punk fashion is still fashionable today, with celebrities like Billie Eilish and Zoe Kravitz rocking triangular sunglasses to music awards and cover shoots, respectively. Triangle sunglasses are the best way to infuse freshness into your wardrobe.

80s sunglasses

Clubmaster Sunglasses

80s sunglasses

In the 1980s, Bruce Willis donned clubmaster sunglasses in the television program Moonlight and sparked people’s interest. Though these can’t be considered the popular sunglasses from the 80s, the style recently made a roaring comeback. If you wish to break the stereotype, what better way than to start with clubmaster sunglasses?  Clubmaster glasses are also known as browline glasses because the upper rim is built of wayfare-like thick plastic, and the bottom section is composed of thinner metal, just like rimless glasses. Clubmaster sunglasses are probably the only style from the 80s that was not a wild or larger-than-life accessory. Thus if you are looking for something minimal yet chick from the 80s, this should be your go-to pick.

Neon Sunglasses

Now, 80s fashion couldn't be complete without neon, could it? Neon styles are the popular sunglasses from the 80s that only bold people dared to embrace. If you want to be adventurous, get one of these sunnies. In reality, you will not appear silly but will make a fashion statement if you wear them to a party or concert. Cyndi Lauper was a fan of these in the 1980s. Today, superstars like Kim Kardashian and Rihanna are setting the trend with neon sunglasses. If you're concerned about going excessive with them, don't be; they'll only add a splash of color to your overall look. So be fearless and purchase yourself a pair of these sunglasses.

80s sunglasses

Wayfarer Sunglasses

80s sunglasses

The wayfarer sunglasses were predominant in the 1950s and 1960s, but they soon went out of fashion. However, with celebrities donning themselves with wayfarers in the 1980s, their popularity grew, and they are now the high fashion in the modern era. If Don Johnson in Miami Vice, Tom Cruise in Risky Business, and many more celebs can don these sunnies, why can’t you? They are multipurpose; whether you have a business meeting in formals or at a beach in a swimsuit, these go well with every setting. This is a must-have popular sunglasses from the 80s.

Wrap Around Sunglasses

80s sunglasses

Wraparound sunglasses are incredibly durable, wrap around the face giving more coverage to provide greater protection from the sun, and are perfect for strenuous activities such as athletic training. It's no surprise that these were initially meant for athletes. However, because of their stylish look, celebrities and non-athletes are wearing them today. Bono popularized this design in the 1980s, and because these are both functional and fashionable, they will never go out of style. As a result, there is no inappropriate moment to wear them. You can get one today, which may last for generations.

Aviator Sunglasses

80s sunglasses

Aviator sunglasses, as the name implies, were developed for pilots to shade themselves from the sun while flying planes during World War I. However, the beauty and compelling design of these spectacles drew the attention of others. Aviator sunglasses became popular in the 80s with celebs like Tom Cruise and David Soul donning them, and people soon followed suit. But why are these glasses so mainstream? Well, aviator sunglasses are timeless and multipurpose. They are ideal for wearing to client meetings, family gatherings, or friends' parties. Hence, there’s no excuse not to buy these popular sunglasses from the 80s.

Cat-Eye Sunglasses

80s sunglasses

Are you looking for a pair of sunglasses that will boost your confidence, make you feel comfortable, highlight your features, and, most importantly, get you lots of compliments? Then get one of the most popular sunglasses from the 80s, the cat-eye sunglasses. Cat-eye glasses look great with any ensemble and thus are a high fashion item. In the 1980s, Michelle Pfeiffer featured cat-eye sunglasses in the film Scarface, and these sunglasses have been famous ever since.


This is the end of the must-have list of popular sunglasses from the 80s. If any of these sunglasses appeal to you, consider if they will complement your face shape. If they do, then happily add them to your collection.


Final Take!


Isn't it wonderful to relive the nostalgia of older times? Thus, if you're looking for a sense of 80s fashion, choose one of the styles from our round-up of popular sunglasses from the 80s. I'm sure you can't go wrong with any of these sunglasses because they are all-time favorites for the general public and celebrities alike!