How Ray-Ban Sunglasses Became a Hollywood Staple

In cinema, costume design is paramount to character development. Just as we curate our wardrobes to communicate our personalities, film characters use costumes to define their identities and make a statement. This intersection between fashion and film has, for some, brands, become a golden ticket to mainstream success. A quintessential example is Ray-Ban, whose Wayfarer sunglasses appearance in Risky Business(1983) led to a 50% surge in sales, marking the brand’s ascent to cultural icon status. And it didn’t stop there. Since then, Ray-Ban shades have made an appearance in countless other Hollywood projects. Here’s a closer look at three more films that have propelled Ray-Ban to legendary heights, cementing their place in pop culture and beyond.

Taxi Driver (1976)

Before Tom Cruise donned Ray-Bans in Risky Business, there was Robert De Niro in Taxi Driver. Though the Scorcese-directed film didn’t make as much of an impact on sales, it was the moment that marked Ray-Ban shades’ transition from a functional to an aspirational fashion accessory. De Niro’s character, Travis Bickle, is a disillusioned Vietnam War veteran who drives a taxi through the seedy underbelly of New York City.

One of the film’s most memorable elements is Bickle’s distinct look, which includes Ray-Ban Caravan sunglasses. The glasses hide his eyes, making expressions inscrutable and adding to his character’s enigmatic and troubled persona. The choice of square aviators also harks back to their military origins, subtly linking Bickle’s past as a marine with his present turmoil. To capture Bickle’s intense yet iconic style, Ray-Ban Caravan RB3136 frames are a must. Pair them with a military-style jacket for a complete homage to this classic character.

Top Gun franchise (1986; 2022)

The original Top Gun, starring Tom Cruise as the daring fighter pilot Pete “Maverick” Mitchell, is a film synonymous with cool. Its 1986 release not only caused a spike in navy recruitment but also skyrocketed the popularity of Ray-Ban Aviator sunglasses. The long-awaited sequel Top Gun: Maverick, continued this legacy 36 years later. After its release was delayed multiple times, the second installment finally hit the big screen on Memorial Day weekend 2022.

In both films, Ray-Ban sunglasses are prominently showcased as part of the pilots’ uniforms, representing a blend of style and actual function. The iconic scenes of Maverick speeding on his motorcycle or soaring through the skies wouldn’t be the same without the gleaming Aviators. For those looking to emulate Maverick’s suave style, head to Sunglass Hut, which offers a variety of iconic Ray-Ban styles, including the RB3025 Aviator Classic. Pair these with a leather moto jacket and jeans for a look that screams high-flying adventure.

Expend4bles (2023)

The Expendables series, known for its ensemble cast of action legends, reached a new peak with Expend4bles (2023). Featuring stars like Sylvester Stallone, Jason Statham, and Liam Neeson, the film is a powerhouse of action and style. Ray-Ban’s presence is felt through the character’s rugged eyewear choices, particularly the Ray-Ban Aviators.

In Expend4bles, the militaristic Aviators complement the tough, no-nonsense attitude of Stallone’s character, Barney Ross. Whether he’s engaged in high-octane action sequences or delivering witty one-liners, the shades add a layer of self-assured coolness. The choice of Aviators also underscores the timeless appeal of these sunglasses, aligning perfectly with the film’s fusion of old-school action and modern-day flair. To mimic the vibe of the film, opt for the new RBR0101S Aviator Reverse, which is perfect for both rugged and refined looks.

Ray-Ban sunglasses have become an integral part of Hollywood’s visual language. Their presence in these films has defined characters as well as propelled Ray-Ban to the pinnacle of fashion and pop culture. By emulating these eyewear styles, anyone can capture a piece of cinematic history and enduring charm.