A Look At Ray-Ban As The Brand Turns 75

Can you believe Ray-Ban is turning 75 this year? Ray-Ban’s first aviator sunglasses, which were released in 1937, are still iconic to this day. They were my first pair of “expensive” sunglasses which were sold at my college’s bookstore. Since the bills were not itemized I think I told my parents they were a book. Sorry Mom and Dad, but I wore them for years! And who can forget Tom Cruise in his Wayfayer’s in “Risky Business?” I had a knock-off pair of those too. In celebration of this momentous birthday, Ray-Ban is releasing a new “Ambermatic” collection inspired by Ray-Ban’s first aviators. The capsule collection of four aviators incorporates a light-sensitive photochromic yellow lens that darkens depending on light and temperature conditions. “People may not realize that Ray-Ban first started out from a military request for pilot’s sunglasses. This Aviator style is something that was developed long ago but that continues to be nurtured by the brand with new frame materials and lens development,” said Sara Beneventi, Ray-Ban brand director. The new collection will hit Sunglass Hut, Henri Bendel and upscale department stores in June and retail for $219. I love that they are so on trend, yet cost significantly less than some of the major designer brands I covet. If you can’t for the Ambermatic Collection to be released, here are some Ray-Bans we still love available now:

How can you NOT love these? They are flattering on virtually every face shape and because they are mirrored you can basically stare at anyone you want and not get caught! Perfecto.

I actually own this pair of Ray-Bans and love them to death. I find myself wearing them more than my more expensive designer brands. Ray-Ban Vagabond, $150

I just love the shape of these sunglasses. You won’t blend in wearing these! I might need these next. Ray-Ban Meteor Sunglasses, $208.74

How can you resist the original Risky Business sunglasses? I know I can’t, so I have a pair of these in black too! Ray-Ban Icons Wayfarer Sunglasses, $145

This is the exact same pair I bought in college. I wonder where they are now! Ray-Ban Wrap Aviator Sunglasses, $140 – Lauren Dimet Waters Source & Top photo: WWD