As an integral part of popular culture, movies do more than just entertain—they can also influence audiences’ wardrobe choices and overall personal style.
For example, a Marie Claire article lists the various style trends inspired by iconic moments in cinematic history, highlighting the intersection between the two creative industries of film and fashion. Such examples range from generational fashion trends, such as Pretty in Pink’s (1986) floral prints, costume jewelry, and oversized suit jackets that defined ‘80s fashion, to timeless pieces like Audrey Hepburn’s signature little black dress in Breakfast at Tiffany’s (1961).
Since adolescence can be a formative period for self-expression and personal style, coming-of-age movies have emerged as one of the most influential genres in cinematic fashion. What’s more, their impact goes beyond clothing and includes accessories like sunglasses, which are not only practical eyewear choices but can also be an effective vehicle for storytelling and character development.
As sunglasses can reflect a character’s tastes, mood, and personality, they can inspire viewers like you to express who you are through eyewear. So, here are examples of sunglasses styles popularized by your favorite coming-of-age movie characters.
Ferris Bueller’s browline sunglasses
In Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (1986), the titular character Ferris Bueller (starring Matthew Broderick) represents a teen hero who is confident, charismatic, and thrill-seeking. Thus, the protagonist is seen wearing sunglasses that match his blend of coolness and mischief as he convinces his friends to join him in his plan to take a day off from school and embark on a journey through Chicago.
A notable style Ferris pulls off is a pair of browline sunglasses, characterized by an upper frame that is bolder and thicker than the bottom portion. The eyewear brand Ray-Ban, which popularized this style through its Clubmaster sunglasses, released an updated Mega version with sun and optical options, allowing viewers who relate to Ferris to channel the same bold and retro sensibilities.
Cher Horowitz’s tortoiseshell sunnies
Clueless (1995) is not only known for being a fun and fresh adaptation of Jane Austen’s novel, Emma, but has also reached cult status for the characters’ unique and playful wardrobe choices. The main character, Cher Horowitz (played by Alicia Silverstone), is undoubtedly a style icon, with her outfits perfectly capturing her status as a wealthy socialite.
Throughout the movie, Cher showcases her love for patterns, from her iconic yellow plaid skirt suit that’s been recreated millions of times to a pair of tortoiseshell sunglasses she wears while on a phone call with her best friend. Now that ‘90s trends are making a resurgence, you can find similar frame styles on Sunglass Hut, which allows you to try on glasses online to find the perfect pair that screams Cher. By clicking the virtual try-on option, you can use your device’s camera to see how tortoiseshell-patterned sunglasses, such as the oversized, square-shaped Prada PR 23YS, fit your face shape and features.
Olive Penderghast’s classic black shades
Considered both a satire and coming-of-age film, Easy A (2010) joins a previous list of movies worth watching for their realistic portrayal of the complicated yet adventure-filled student life. The movie follows the story of Olive Penderghast (played by Emma Stone), who goes from clean-cut to notorious after a lie about her reputation spreads across her high school’s rumor mill.
In arguably the most climactic scene in the movie, Olive struts through the campus hallways in a black lace corset with equally black sunglasses to symbolize how she embraces her new edgy and provocative persona. The exact pair worn in the movie was identified to be Ray-Ban Wayfarer sunglasses, but the classic frame shape and color are available from virtually any eyewear brand if you want to embody your own transformation like Olive.If you enjoyed this article, continue reading Ruthless Reviews for more insightful movie features and reviews.
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