Cat-eye sunglasses have long been a symbol of bold femininity and retro glamour, with their distinctive upswept frames evoking a sense of elegance and playful sophistication. While their origins trace back to the 1930s, thanks to visionary designer Altina Schinasi, it was the 1960s and 1970s that truly cemented their status as an iconic fashion statement. This era saw the style evolve from delicate and dainty to oversized and dramatic, with celebrities and designers alike embracing the feline-inspired look. Let’s dive into the history of cat-eye sunglasses during these vibrant decades and explore the famous faces who brought them into the spotlight—while also spotlighting a rare vintage gem that captures the essence of this era.
The 1960s: A Star-Studded Rise to Fame
The 1960s marked a turning point for cat-eye sunglasses, transforming them from a quirky eyewear choice into a must-have accessory. The decade kicked off with one of the most iconic moments in eyewear history: Audrey Hepburn’s unforgettable appearance in Breakfast at Tiffany’s (1961). As Holly Golightly, Hepburn donned a pair of oversized tortoiseshell cat-eye sunglasses designed by Oliver Goldsmith, known as the “Manhattan” frames. These shades, with their subtle upward sweep and bold silhouette, perfectly complemented her chic black dress and pearl necklace, creating a look that’s still synonymous with timeless style. Hepburn’s influence was seismic—suddenly, women everywhere wanted to channel that sophisticated yet approachable glamour.
But Hepburn wasn’t alone in popularizing the style. Marilyn Monroe, already a 1950s darling of the cat-eye trend, continued to sport narrower, pointed versions into the early ’60s, adding a touch of playful seduction to her on-screen persona in films like Some Like It Hot. The combination of Monroe’s flirtatious charm and Hepburn’s refined elegance made cat-eye sunglasses a versatile accessory, appealing to a broad audience. By mid-decade, the frames had grown larger and more exaggerated, reflecting the era’s shift toward bold experimentation in fashion.
The 1970s: Oversized and Outrageous
As the 1970s dawned, cat-eye sunglasses took on a new life, mirroring the decade’s flair for the dramatic. The subtle sweeps of the ’60s gave way to oversized, geometric shapes that dominated the eyewear scene. This evolution aligned with the broader trend of larger-than-life fashion—think bell-bottoms, platform shoes, and statement jewelry. Celebrities like Cher and Diana Ross embraced this exaggerated take on the cat-eye, often pairing them with vibrant outfits and voluminous hairstyles. Cher, in particular, made the style her own, sporting oversized frames that amplified her bohemian-chic aesthetic during her reign as a pop culture icon.
Another key figure of the ’70s cat-eye resurgence was Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, affectionately dubbed “Jackie O.” While she was known for her oversized round sunglasses, she also favored cat-eye-inspired shapes that echoed the decade’s love for bold geometry. Her influence as a fashion trailblazer ensured that these frames remained a staple among the stylish elite. Meanwhile, designers like Emmanuelle Khanh, a French eyewear innovator, began pushing the boundaries of the cat-eye silhouette. Khanh’s creations—often featuring striking colors like red and unconventional proportions—blended Parisian elegance with a modern edge, making them a favorite among trendsetters.
The Designers and the Legacy
The 1960s and ’70s weren’t just about the celebrities; designers played a crucial role in shaping the cat-eye’s legacy. Oliver Goldsmith’s “Manhattan” frames became a benchmark for the style, while Emmanuelle Khanh emerged as a standout in the ’70s with her avant-garde approach. Khanh’s designs, like the rare vintage red cat-eye sunglasses available on Etsy (a true collector’s piece!), showcased her knack for combining bold hues with sculptural forms. These frames, with their deep red finish and dramatic sweep, are a perfect encapsulation of the era’s fearless creativity—a wearable piece of history that nods to the women who made the style iconic.
Why Cat-Eye Sunglasses Endure
The cat-eye sunglasses of the 1960s and ’70s remain beloved for their ability to fuse vintage charm with modern versatility. Hepburn brought them into the mainstream with her understated glamour, Monroe infused them with a touch of Old Hollywood allure, and ’70s icons like Cher and Jackie O turned them into a statement of individuality. Today, these shades continue to inspire, whether you’re channeling a retro vibe or adding a pop of personality to a contemporary look.
For those looking to own a piece of this storied past, treasures like the vintage Emmanuelle Khanh red cat-eye sunglasses offer a direct connection to the era. Their rarity and bold design make them more than just eyewear—they’re a testament to the creativity and charisma of the decades that defined them. So, next time you slip on a pair of cat-eyes, remember the trailblazing women and visionary designers who turned a simple frame into a fashion legend.