Nowadays, the inherently cool 70s style is making its comeback via screens both big and small — from TikTok creators donning their roller skates and dancing to Fleetwood Mac, to the return of double denim. With disco and rock ’n' roll silhouettes trickling back into mainstream fashion, it's no surprise that 70s sunglasses are back in style too.
What sunglasses were popular in the 70s?
The 70s catapulted sunglasses style from functional to fun. Bold, cat eye, supersized, and geometric style glasses frames came to the fore and can still be seen echoed in fashion today. Superstar celebrities were the style trendsetters of the 70s, sporting retro sunglasses and becoming infamous for their iconic eyewear looks.
How to get the look: 70s sunglasses for men and women
Introducing vintage, 70s sunglasses into your wardrobe is a subtle take on the trend and a surefire way to achieve the look without it being overkill. Check out our top picks below.
Acetate pilot style sunglasses
The Trends are flooded right now with brown and orange hues, and if you pair these tortoiseshell colours with the iconic pilot style, you’ve nailed the 70s aesthetic.
These Specsavers Port Douglas sunglasses feature a chunky acetate frame, moulded into a pilot-style shape with its classic double brow detail — 70s sunglasses perfect for any summer day.
All black sunglasses
Opt for these all black Marc Jacobs oversized frames for the ultimate 70s feel.
The deep square shape features a subtly curved brow line for a feminine feel, complemented perfectly by the gold detailing on the templates.
Glossy black sunglasses
Or go for these glossy black oversized frames. They are a great way to achieve the off-duty model look, it’s no wonder the style has remained so popular over time.
For fans of 70s sunglasses that want a bit more vintage glamour, amp up your glasses collection with these HUGO Men's sunnies. They ooze a striking coolness and sophistication.
Chunky, square sunglasses
Nothing says ‘70’s style’ quite like a chunky pair of square-framed, vintage sunglasses. To execute the look, opt for thick, square-framed glasses such as these Specsavers statement pair.
Their light tortoiseshell pattern combined with the oversized, chunky acetate plastic come together for maximum effect.
If you like the angular, geometric style but you don’t want a thick frame, the Liberty London LL SUN RX 01 frame is ideal.
Bright, orange sunnies
Orange and yellow sunglasses were all the rage in the 70s.
These Specsavers Wineglass shades are a pair of retro sunglasses that are a modern take on the square shape that is bound to draw attention to your eyes.
Made from crystal-amber acetate, deep-sided temples and a visible glittery core wire, you’re sure to channel 70s vibes.
Earth tones and tints
Nothing says 70s style like earthy warm tones. With so much time spent indoors recently, bring a natural element to your look with earth-toned frames. If you want to experiment with colour for this look, stand-out burgundy, maroons and copper work best.
Opt for these burgundy Karen Millen sunglasses for a bold and glamorous cat eye look that is sure to turn heads. The frames feature the brand’s signature chain-link effect at the metal temples and are finished in tortoiseshell temple tips.
It’s also worth knowing that you can add a coloured lens tint to almost any of our prescription glasses frames to transform them into tinted sunglasses. Find out more about lens tints here
Bold, tortoiseshell sunglasses
These brown bow-shaped tortoiseshell shades are the perfect oversized fit to channel the 70s.
What’s more, their temples boast gold metal cut-outs, zigzag detailing, and distinctive Karen Millen accents.
Circular sunglasses
The influence of John Lennon’s trademark round-eye glasses carried on well into the 70s.
If you want to recreate the look, try these striking Vivienne Westwood sunnies. The exposed-core gold metal temples add a modern element to the 70s sunglasses style, while the blue and brown tortoiseshell pattern is reminiscent of the earthy tones of the era.
Pair with some bell-bottom jeans and you’ve nailed 70s fashion for women.
Feeling inspired to experiment with the 70s sunglasses fashion trend? Our virtual try-on tool lets you try-out as many pairs of glasses before you buy — so you can find the perfect fit for your hair colour and face shape.
Explore all 70s style glasses and sunglasses here.
