The Best Designer Aviator Sunglasses for Men and Women

Updated AUG 10, 20233 min read

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By Kara Nesvig

women aviator glasses
a GlassesUSA.com blog

Summary in 30 seconds:

Your wardrobe isn’t complete without a pair of designer aviator glasses. Whether you choose a classic gold-rimmed pair or a unique twist on the trend, the aviator exudes effortless cool for both men and women. They look as good on the beach as they do for your morning commute and will never, ever go out of style, making them a great investment for years to come. 

Finding the perfect pair of designer aviator sunglasses shouldn’t be intimidating; there’s truly a pair for every face shape and style. You may have to try on a few different styles to figure out which style and shape looks best on your face and works with your lifestyle, but believe us, your pair is out there — and we’re here to help you find it! 

If you’re ready to expand your eyewear horizons and put your unique spin on this timeless sunglasses trend, look no further for glasses online at GlassesUSA.com for the best designer aviator sunglasses, including brands like Burberry, Persol, Versace, and Armani, as well as prescription sunglasses.

Below, discover the best designer aviator sunglasses for any occasion.


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  1. The history of aviator sunglasses
  2. What to look for from the best designer aviator sunglasses
  3. Men’s designer aviator sunglasses to try
  4. Women’s designer aviator sunglasses to try

The history of aviator sunglasses

As their name suggests, aviator sunglasses were created in the 1930s for pilots and members of the military, in part to block the bright colors of the sky and to reduce the risk of fogging. The unique shape was key to ensuring the entire eye was covered and protected. 


During WWII, the style gained popularity amongst military members and civilians alike, with Ray-Ban introducing their now-iconic thin, sleek aviator sunglasses design. The trend boomed from there and aviators became a must-have for everyone, including celebrities like Elvis, who became known for his love of a thick-framed ‘70s aviator style.

mens aviator glasses


What to look for in a pair of aviator sunglasses

The typical aviator sunglasses style includes a teardrop-shaped lens, a thin metal frame, and a bridge, though it can vary. Traditionally, the lenses are black or brown. Some designs feature a thicker frame and bridge, while others play with proportions or lens shape and color, like a bright green or a pretty pink.

classic gold aviator

When you’re shopping for aviator sunglasses, keep a few important things in mind:

  • What is your face shape? The traditional teardrop aviator shape works well on oval and heart-shaped faces, while round faces should try a square or hexagonal shape for a cool contrast. If you have a long face, you can try a pair of designer oversized aviator sunglasses

  • Are you careful with your frames or do you toss them in your bag, wear them on your head or keep them in your car? While designer sunglasses are made with premium materials and attention to detail, thinner aviator sunglasses can be fragile and may easily bend out of shape. If you know you won’t regularly use a sunglasses case, you may want to consider trying a thicker, more durable frame. 

  • How will you wear them? Are you looking for an everyday pair or something for a special occasion or vacation? What’s your personal style? If you’re looking for daily wear or you prefer a more classic look, choose a style that will go with everything in your closet. Otherwise, have a little fun with color and shape!

  • How much do you want to spend? Designer aviator sunglasses range in price.

What are the best men’s designer aviator sunglasses?

Aviator sunglasses have been a mainstay for stylish men of all ages since they first became popular. They’re so versatile — you can channel Old Hollywood movie stars, politicians, or your favorite athletes with just a frame change. Check out some of our favorite designs of men’s glasses to get you started.

The Burberry Oliver frame gives off a stylish but not over-the-top vibe with its double bridge and Burberry print arms.

burberry aviator frames

The Persol P02496SZ style would feel right at home in the 1940s with its detachable leather blinders.

persol aviator glasses


You’ll never go wrong with a pair of Ray-Ban aviator sunglasses when all else fails. Try the all-black look for a mysterious vibe or the go-to gold for a classic movie-star appeal. GlassesUSA.com offers many men’s sunglasses online, so you’re sure to find a pair or two.

What are the best women’s designer aviator sunglasses?

Aviator sunglasses may have gotten their start as a practical solution for pilots during WWII, but they’ve become one of the most popular sunglasses trends for women due to their easygoing, effortlessly cool look that can feel hippie-chic one day and dressed-up luxury the next. No matter your outfit, there’s a pair of women’s designer aviator sunglasses to go with it. From sophisticated and sleek to colorful and funky, find the designer aviator sunglasses that suit your personal style at every age.

If you love the look of designer oversized aviator sunglasses, go glam with these Versace frames with luxurious gold arms featuring the Versace logo.

versace aviators

Alternatively, these shades, an all-black pair with the Medusa on either side for the ultimate fashion-forward style.

black versace aviators

See the world through rose-colored lenses with these chic rose gold Michael Kors frames and pair or combine the cat-eye silhouette with the aviator thanks to Burberry and Miu Miu.

pink michael kors aviator

If you have a round face, the DITA Flight.006 is a graphic square-shaped aviator that will balance your face shape. See you at the pool! 

square shaped aviator

Published August 8, 2023|Updated August 10, 2023

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Kara Nesvig

Kara Nesvig is a Minnesota-based freelance writer. She writes for a variety of publications and brands across the lifestyle, beauty, pop culture, fashion and wellness space.