Aviators sunglasses, yesterday, today and tomorrow…

In our series ‘Fashion from the King of Pop”, we couldn’t not talk about one fashion item that Michael made it his own: the Aviators!

The iconic accessory was created by Ray-Ban and represented and still represent being cool and rebellious!

The Ray-Ban Aviator sunglasses have a fascinating history that traces back to the 1930s. Let’s delve into a brief overview of their evolution:

1. 1. Origins (1930s): Developed by Bausch & Lomb, the Aviator sunglasses were born out of a request from the U.S. Army Air Corps. They needed sunglasses that could offer optimal eye protection and style for pilots. The result was a sleek design with teardrop-shaped lenses, a thin metal frame, and UV ray-blocking capabilities.
   2. Popularity and Cultural Impact (1940s-1960s): The Aviator sunglasses achieved prominence during World War II, becoming an essential part of military aviators’ gear. After the war, these sunglasses made a seamless transition into civilian fashion. They soon captured the attention of celebrities, musicians, and Hollywood stars. Notably, the iconic design was embraced by Michael Jackson, who sported them during performances and public appearances.
   3. Hollywood Endorsement (1950s-1960s): The Aviator sunglasses garnered even more acclaim as they graced the silver screen and adorned the faces of Hollywood legends such as Marlon Brando in “The Wild One” and Paul Newman in “Cool Hand Luke.” These endorsements solidified their status as a symbol of rebellious style and American culture.
   4. Michael Jackson’s Influence (1970s-1980s): The Aviator sunglasses experienced a new wave of popularity during the 1970s and 1980s, partly thanks to their association with counterculture movements and the music scene. Michael Jackson’s signature look often included Aviator sunglasses, making them an iconic accessory that perfectly complemented his unique style and musical prowess.
   5. Resurgence and Enduring Allure (1990s-Present): As the 1990s and early 2000s rolled in, the Aviator sunglasses enjoyed a revival. A new generation of trendsetters embraced their timeless appeal, and the sunglasses once again found their place in mainstream fashion. Ray-Ban continued to innovate, introducing modern lens technologies and frame variations, ensuring the Aviators stayed relevant. Amidst this resurgence, Michael Jackson’s influence on their popularity remained palpable, as his legacy continued to inspire fashion choices.

Michael Jackson makes them the style banner of the Thriller era, optioning them in the mirror in the memorable Halftime Show of the Superbowl, in January 1993, in Pasadena.

During his career, Michael released few ranges of sunglasses, some looking more or less like the Ray-Ban’s. The Estate carried this legacy with releasing similar products and we are sure we will see more coming in the future!