Big Sunglasses Will Channel Your Inner Jackie O. and Audrey Hepburn

Mini sunglass frames have had their moment for far too long. Over the last couple of years, it's as though we all collectively agreed to pretend that big sunglasses, let alone oversized frames, were nonexistent. But finally, the pendulum of fashion has swung back, and oversized sunglasses are making a big comeback. These larger-than-life accessories are not just practical for shielding your eyes from the sun but also serve as a bold statement piece that can elevate any outfit. The resurgence of big sunglasses has been embraced by celebrities and fashionistas alike, signaling a shift towards more dramatic, expressive styles, whether they're known for sporting a boho chic vibe, a minimalist aesthetic, or a glamorous look, and everything in between. From street style to high fashion runways, oversized frames prove that sometimes, bigger is better. With that, join L'OFFICIEL as we look back at how fashion icons have rocked them over the years. Who knows? Maybe you'll take inspiration from one (or two) of these stylish looks.  

Oversized sunglasses trace back to the glamorous icons of the mid-20th century. In the 1960s, Audrey Hepburn popularized the look in Breakfast at Tiffany's, cementing big sunglasses as a symbol of chic sophistication. However, her affinity for big sunglasses extended beyond the silver screen and became a staple of her personal wardrobe. Often photographed wearing them in her daily life, Hepburn used oversized sunglasses to add an air of mystery and elegance to her ensembles. This enduring association with her off-screen style helped to solidify oversized sunglasses as an essential accessory for women seeking to emulate her effortless glamor.

But it wasn't just Audrey Hepburn who popularized the look. Throughout the decades, oversized sunglasses have been a favorite accessory for stars like Jackie Kennedy Onassis, who used them to maintain an air of mystery and elegance. Jackie O's iconic style often featured large, dark shades, adding to her sophisticated appearance and providing a sense of privacy amidst her highly publicized life. Her effortless chic and poised demeanor while wearing oversized sunglasses made them a symbol of graceful allure.

Fast forward to the early aughts, oversized sunglasses saw a resurgence in popularity, becoming a defining accessory of the Y2K era. Style icons like Paris Hilton and the Olsen twins were frequently spotted wearing large, statement-making shades, which perfectly complemented their trendy, paparazzi-ready looks. These sunglasses became synonymous with the celebrity lifestyle. The early 2000s embraced a mix of bold fashion choices, and oversized sunglasses were a key element in achieving the era’s distinctive, playful aesthetic.

Then, the big sunglasses weren't on-trend for quite some time. But, there were few who kept the trend alive during its quieter moments. Celebrities like Vanessa Hudgens, Sienna Miller, and Sofia Richie Grainge continued to embrace oversized shades, incorporating them into their off-duty looks and red carpet ensembles, even when they weren't dominating the fashion scene as prominently. These trendsetters proved that oversized sunglasses were more than just a passing fad—they could elevate any outfit. So, with oversized sunglasses making a slow comeback, perhaps it's time to start picking out your favorite oversized frames before everyone else does.