Sunglasses have long been a staple in pop culture, signifying coolness and individuality. In the 90s, television characters rocking shades were always cast as the epitome of cool. Often seen as trendsetters, these characters exuded an air of nonchalance and rebellion, making them immensely popular among viewers. They were portrayed as independent, setting their own trends rather than following the crowd, which only boosted their appeal. Everyone admired them and aspired to mimic their style, demonstrating how a simple accessory like sunglasses could define an entire cultural persona and influence generations.
Around this time, sunglasses became more than just a practical accessory; they were a crucial element of personal branding and style identity in the realms of rap, R&B, and rock music videos. Artists like Aaliyah, Mary J. Blige, and Missy Elliott utilized sunglasses to craft their unique images and enhance their on-screen personas, making these accessories emblematic of their signature styles. Meanwhile, male artists such as LL Cool J and Lenny Kravitz embraced sunglasses as part of their larger-than-life personas, often opting for styles that conveyed a blend of luxury and street-smart cool. Tupac Shakur’s bandana and aviator glasses became an emblematic image of hip-hop culture.
Together, these artists used sunglasses not just as a tool for eye protection or a fashion accessory but as an essential component of their artistic expression in music videos. Their choice of eyewear helped set trends that influenced both their fans and broader fashion trends, making sunglasses a significant cultural marker of the era.
This spring through the summer cop yourself a pair of shades and channel your inner cool 90s fave.
