All About Octagonal-Shaped Sunglasses
Photo by Sidney Herrington, CSA Models
Welcome to the fascinating world of octagonal sunglasses—a fashion statement that defies the traditional norms of eyewear design. Far from your usual round or square frames, these eight-sided wonders bring a unique flair to your look, standing out in a crowd of conventional styles. This article will explore what makes these sunnies so special.
What are Octagonal Sunglasses?
Octagonal sunglasses are, as the name suggests, shades with an eight-sided frame that holds the lenses. They fit into the broader category of geometric sunglasses, which also include other shapes like squares, triangles, and hexagons. What sets octagonal sunglasses apart is their balanced blend of edgy and classic, offering a middle ground between the avant-garde and the traditional.
SHOP NOW
●
SHOP NOW ●
The History of Octagon Glasses and When They Were Popular
The origin of octagonal eyeglasses can be traced back to the early 19th century. However, their heyday appears to be between the 1940s and 1960s. During this period, these distinctive frames graced the faces of a variety of Americans, each prominent in their own right. Steel tycoon Ernest Weir was featured on the cover of Life magazine in 1931 sporting a pair. The versatile shape was also favored by bandleader Glenn Miller, civil rights activist Rosa Parks, and even gangster Enoch Johnson. This speaks volumes about the universal appeal of the octagonal shape.
What are Geometric Sunglasses?
Photo by Chris Loveridge, CSA Models, A-Z Photography
Geometric sunglasses are a broader category of eyewear featuring frames in various geometric shapes. Octagonal sunglasses fit comfortably within this category, but they bring their own unique charm. While hexagonal sunglasses might evoke a more futuristic look and square frames often lean towards the classic, octagonal sunglasses strike a balance, making them adaptable and timelessly chic.
V SHADES
●
V SHADES ●
To learn more about geometric sunglasses, read this article: Why Geometric Sunglasses Should Be Your Next Bold Style Piece
3 Popular Types of Geometric Sunglasses
The geometric sunglasses family is vast and includes a variety of types. This segment of eyewear is defined by its utilization of various geometric shapes, each bringing its own set of characteristics and aesthetic appeals. In this section, we’ll cover into three popular geometric sunglasses. For a full list, click here.
Hexagonal Frames: Often seen as modern and edgy.
Photo by Siah
Hexagonal sunglasses are characterized by their six-sided shape, offering a modern and edgy look. This style is particularly noted for its ability to blend the softness of round frames with the defined edges of square ones, making it a versatile option for those looking to make a subtle yet distinct fashion statement. The angular design not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also improves the field of vision for the wearer, merging functionality with style. Hexagonal frames are favored in contemporary fashion circles, appealing to individuals seeking to incorporate a modern twist into their wardrobe.
Square Frames: Classic and versatile, suitable for most face shapes
Photo by Jamie Van Veen
Square sunglasses are known for their four equal-length sides, presenting a classic and versatile design. This shape is universally flattering, capable of complementing a wide range of face shapes and sizes. Square frames convey a sense of stability and strength, appealing to individuals who prefer a mix of traditional style and modern simplicity. The popularity of square sunglasses is enduring, thanks to their straightforward design and the reliable image they project, making them suitable for both casual and formal settings.
Triangular Frames: A rarity, but they make a bold fashion statement
Triangular sunglasses, marked by their three sharp angles and distinct lines, are a great example of bold eyewear. They are less common than other geometric shapes, which contributes to their unique appeal. These frames are designed for those who wish to make a daring fashion statement, standing out from the crowd with a piece that is both unconventional and eye-catching. Triangular frames suit avant-garde and eclectic styles, offering a striking complement to outfits that challenge traditional fashion norms.
Conclusion
From their intriguing history to their varied types, octagonal sunglasses are more than just a fashion statement—they are an expression of individuality. Whether you’re channeling the vintage vibes of the mid-20th century or embracing modern-day chic, octagonal sunglasses offer a look that is uniquely yours. We encourage you to step out of the comfort zone of conventional shapes and explore the edgy, stylish world of geometric sunglasses, starting with the octagonal variety. To learn more about all types of sunglasses, make sure to check out the rest of our articles on our blog!
