You don’t need to be a pilot to wear aviator sunglasses! These classic glasses are a great mix of cool vibes and timeless style. You can wear them with just about anything! Boho, business, or sporty? Yes! Casual, edgy, or retro? Absolutely!
Aviators are timeless fashion staples we keep coming back to. This year, we’re highlighting our top picks—read on to see if your favorite made the list.
A Little Bit of Aviator History
Aviators were created in the 1930s so pilots could see better at high altitudes. They needed glasses that wouldn’t fog up and could handle the bright blues and whites of the sky. The first samples used green lenses with “anti-glare” features. Over time, there was a transition to darker, smoke-tinted lenses for better coverage from the sun’s glare.
Many contractors made aviator sunglasses for the military. Each design was different, but all of these glasses had great features. Teardrop-shaped lenses, plastic nose pads, brow bars, and bendable cable temples are still used today!
After the war, civilians started to like military items for everyday use, even aviator sunglasses. As a result, companies adjusted their goals and got to work selling these aviation-inspired shades to everyone. And you know what they say—the rest is history.
Why Aviator Sunglasses Are Always a Top Pick
Aviator sunglasses aren’t just for pilots, but Top Gun sure put them in the public eye. It’s easier to stay on the ground and still look stylish, but you might not look as cool as Tom Cruise.
We love aviators because they go with everything. They work with jeans and a T-shirt, a cute dress, or comfy joggers and a hoodie for a Costco run. Beyond their military origins, they come in many colors and styles and have a chic look that lasts.
You can find the right pair of aviators for any mood, event, outfit, or time of day. This is why we turn to these stylish glasses again and again.
The Best Aviator Sunglasses To Buy This Year
Aviators never go out of style, and 2025 is no exception! Since these sunglasses will be our go-to all year long, we’re kicking things off with our top picks for women. Is your favorite on the list?
1. Stella McCartney SC0165S Aviator Sunglasses
The SC0165S Sunglasses by Stella McCartney are fantastic for today’s active women. They can be stylishly casual or the perfect accessory for a fancy look. Wear them for brunches, picnics, or even when you’re doing work outdoors.
They feature tinted lenses and full-rim frames etched with the brand logo. Eco-conscious consumers will be happy to know that Stella McCartney uses a material derived from over 50% natural sources in their sustainable sunglasses. You can enjoy a chic look that’s also good for the planet!
2. Ray-Ban RB3025 Classic Aviators
Ray-Ban is probably the most well-known brand in the world of aviator sunglasses, and their RB3025 is a true classic! They feature glass lenses fitted in full-rim metal frames. Choose from several color combinations, like light brown frames with pink lenses, gunmetal frames with grey lenses, and silver frames with polar blue lenses.
Want the perfect Top Gun style? Go for gold frames with green lenses. Grab a pair and show everyone who’s in charge! And remember—these aviators aren’t just for women, so no one has to miss out.
3. Maui Jim Mavericks
From one “Maverick” to another! We had to include the unisex Maui Jim Mavericks on our list because they might be the lightest aviator sunglasses ever! The frames are made from very light titanium, and the technology used to make them is amazing.
A material called MauiPure makes the lenses so very thin and light. They are known for their scratch resistance and do not break easily with normal wear. Plus, the lenses, which come in colors like Maui Sunrise and HCL Bronze, use cutting-edge PolarizedPlus2 technology.
These aviators help keep you safe from bright light and provide defense from the sun’s harmful UV rays. They aren’t just fashionable—they’re functional. No matter what you do outside, these shades shouldn’t let you down!
4. Michael Kors Chelsea Aviators
Want stunning style at an affordable price? Michael Kors Chelsea aviators are the right pick for just about any occasion. They are ideal for sightseeing, hiking trips, and relaxing outdoor get-togethers with friends.
The strong, full-rim frames support a variety of colored polycarbonate lenses, which come in shades like Purple Mirror, Burgundy, and Rose Gold. Polarized lenses offer extra glare and UV protection. And for so much style at this price, who could complain?
5. Kate Spade Avaline Sunglasses
Last but certainly not least, we have Kate Spade’s Avaline Aviators! They’re as fun and ultra-stylish as they are useful.
They have full-rim frames and light lenses that can handle impacts well. So, you get a strong pair of aviator sunglasses that protect against harmful UV rays. Plus, when you slide them on, they stay on.
These shades put a contemporary twist on a classic style. And not only do Avaline aviators look good—you will look great wearing them!
Final Thoughts on Fashionable Aviators
Aviator sunglasses have stood the test of time. Whether you prefer a bold statement or a sleek, understated look, there’s a perfect pair for everyone.
From high-fashion picks to budget-friendly options, aviators remain a must-have accessory for any wardrobe. Keep rocking your aviators in style!
