A Grand spectacle
WHat iconic eyewear
WHERE everywhere
Eyewear has long been the accessory of choice for fashionistas around the globe. Who can forget the iconic images of Audrey Hepburn and Jackie O in their signature black sunnies during the ’60s and ’70s? In recent years, spectacles as well as sunglasses have emerged as ‘must-have’ fashion accessories, gracing runways, worn by front-rowers and making their way down many a red carpet. Johnny Depp is rarely seen without his dark-rimmed specs, Amitabh Bachan sports his with sophistication and we’ve even seen the likes of Victoria Beckham, Anne Hathaway and Deepika Padukone channeling some serious retro-cool in their vintage-inspired frames. There’s no better time than the summer to embrace this trend. Instep travels through history to bring you some famous eyewear trends that still rule the style circuit.
Wayfarers
Since their introduction in the ’50s, Wayfarers have gained a reputation as an iconic fashion statement and have never really gone out of style. From Marilyn Monroe to Mary-Kate Olsen, celebs through the decades have embraced these classic frames. Pair them with jeans and a graphic tee for instant oomph or, if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, opt for a coloured pair.
Cat Eye
A style that was made famous by Hollywood royalties such as Elizabeth Taylor and Audrey Hepburn, cat eye glasses scream vintage glamour and sex appeal and are not for the faint-hearted. The women who choose to wear this shape are known for their individualistic sense of style and willingness to take risks – be it the flamboyant Lady Gaga or the trendy Kangana Ranaut.
Windsor glasses
Favored by the likes of John Lennon and Mahatma Gandhi, these round spectacles were introduced more than a
century ago. Their popularity magically revived when Daniel Radcliffe wore them in the Harry Potter movie series. Since Windsor glasses are no longer in production, an original pair is hard to find and quite the collector’s item. But luckily, for those of you looking to emulate the Boy Wonder’s geek-chic-ness, cheap Chinese imitations abound.
- Mariam Mushtaq