‘70s disco sunglasses for men and women 

Summary in 30 seconds:

TLDR: The 1970s was a time to behold, with the advent of disco and the rise of hippie fashion trends. If you knew what was cool in the ‘70s, your hair was long, your pants tight with a fun flare, and your sunglasses were big and bold. Looking at icons of the decade — Elton John was famous for his oversized tinted styles, complete with funky frames, while Robert Redford and Gloria Steinem made aviator glasses their signature looks. Cher embraced both, naturally.

The 1970s was an era of taking fashion risks, especially where accessories were concerned. Sunglasses featured lenses in sun-kissed hues like pink and orange and thick (read: sometimes embellished) frames. The double bridge over the nose design was all the rage during this time, too. Ahead, more on ‘70s disco glasses and how you can get the retro-inspired look. 

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• ‘70s Disco Sunglasses Are Making a Major Comeback
• ‘70s Stars and Their Go-To Favorite Disco Glasses
• Modern Style Icons Embracing ‘70s Disco Glasses
• Shop the Retro Look

The Resurgence of ‘70s Sunglasses

The groovy aesthetic of the 1970s and the era’s staple disco glasses seem to be more popular than ever today. Everyone from actors and pop stars to Instagram influencers and TikTok content creators are sporting vintage-style sunglasses that call to mind the electric disco decade.

Along with statement patterns, crochet, headscarves, and platforms, sunglasses reminiscent of on-trend styles seen in the ‘70s are ubiquitous of late. More and more, we’re seeing tastemakers sporting glasses with colorful lenses, distinctive frames, and bulky bridges. Typically, said glasses are substantial in size, but updates in technology mean styles are lighter than back in the day. Manufacturers today are using materials that are less cumbersome on the face and in turn, more comfortable for the wearer.

‘70s Celebrities and Their Signature Shades 

When looking back on women’s disco sunglasses, it’s impossible not to think of celebrities like Bianca Jagger, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Pam Grier, and Jane Fonda. 

• Jackie O’s motto was ‘the bigger, the better’ when it came to her shades. The former first lady frequently wore glasses that hid nearly half of her face to shield herself from paparazzi when stepping out. Never one to shy away from a fashion statement, she even made bold hexagon sunglasses a thing. 
  
  
• Bianca Jagger was regularly photographed wearing tear-shaped aviator sunglasses featuring thin metal frames and a double bridge. There’s actually a noteworthy shot of her sleeping in a pair of aviators alongside ex-husband Mick Jagger during a flight in 1973. 
  
  
•  Pam Grier oozed ‘70s bohemian glamour when she wore a pair of oversized glasses with a slinky white crochet bikini in the 1973 film Coffy. 
  
  
• Jane Fonda often donned super big, round glasses throughout the flower-power decade. 

Most Popular Sunglasses Shapes

Square Aviator Wayfarer Rectangle Cat Eye Round

In terms of men’s disco sunglasses, stars like Paul Newman, Marvin Gaye, and Jack Nicholson are top of mind. All of these guys were fans of aviators, with some, like Nicholson, tending to favor golden-tinted glasses. Meanwhile, Paul Newman is known for his signature oversized aviators featuring a wider, solid bridge. 

Modern Style Icons Embracing ‘70s Disco Glasses 

Now, let’s discuss current celebrities with an affinity for retro sunglasses inspired by the aforementioned ‘70s style icons. 

•  Chrissy Teigen is known to gravitate toward large-and-in-charge sunglasses, including rounder styles.
  
  
•  Justin Bieber often infuses his head-turning outfits with a touch of ‘70s flair by adding aviators or tinted lenses. He’s been seen in regular glasses on many occasions, so it’s definitely possible he wears prescription sunglasses. 

Most Popular Men’s Sunglasses Shapes

Square Aviator Wayfarer Rectangle Oversized Round

• Rita Ora is also one to rock XL sunnies from trendy brands like Miu Miu and more.
  
  
• Jennifer Lopez seldom forgets a flamboyant pair of designer glasses when she hits the town. 
  
  
• Jared Leto’s passion for aviator sunglasses is well documented. The actor loves a pair of men’s glasses that take over the whole face, as well as a colorful tint. 

Shop the Look 

If you love the ‘70s disco aesthetic, it’s probably time to shop for a pair of your own glasses online. Here, we selected a few great options for both men and women. 

There are several ways to style these pairs as they’re easy to dress up and down, depending on the occasion. These extra-large Ray Ban aviators featuring a classic double bridge detail are perfect for any situation.

There’s no going wrong with these Burberry tortoise-rimmed frames. Channel Jackie O and style them with a chic headscarf.