For aspiring artists, it helps to take inspiration from the greats that have gone before them, whether from their performances or style.
Wearing iconic fashion statements can be critical to enduring stardom, with eyewear being an essential artist accessory. Case in point, sporty wraparounds have been all the rage in recent years thanks to pop artists like Justin Bieber, Rihanna, and Dua Lipa frequently wearing them. And if you could turn back time, you’d no doubt witness how artists have long been trendsetters in both sound and style.
Whether it’s how Beatlemania made hippy, round frames the go-to eyewear in the 60s, or the way the reluctant Voice of His Generation Bob Dylan led his signature sunglasses to become a classic wardrobe staple, taking eyewear inspiration from musical legends is a surefire way to stay on trend and channel some of their star power. So, here are a few artists with notable eyewear game you can copy and easy styling tips to make them your own.
One-fourth of the Beatles and co-writer of hits like “Strawberry Fields,” “Cry Baby Cry,” and “All You Need Is Love,” John Lennon was a visionary and pop genius. But he also stands out in people’s minds everywhere as an activist who was vocal on political issues during his lifetime. The flame of his legacy continues to burn brightly decades after his untimely passing. One of the things he’s remembered for is the iconic John Lennon wire-rimmed eyeglasses, a pair of which recently fetched a sum of $80,000 at the Icons and Idols: Rock N Roll auction. To channel Lennon’s aura, explore round frames with thin metal rims, evoking the artistic essence of the 60s. For a touch of nostalgia, go for a subtle blue or yellow tint. Throw on a jacket or blazer on top of a white shirt, and soon you might just look like a “rich man” too.
In many ways, Bob Dylan’s hits, such as “Like A Rolling Stone” and “A Hard Rain’s A-Gonna Fall,” likened to protest anthems, set off a cultural and generational movement—one big enough to recently induct him into the Folk Americana Roots Hall of Fame some 50+ years later, among other top tier accolades, including a Nobel Prize in Literature for his work and lyrical mastery. However, his influence also extends to fashion; Dylan is credited as one of the artists who made Wayfarer sunglasses the epitome of cool.
To mimic his laid-back and effortless brand, you can opt to wear a pair of Ray-Ban polarized sunglasses in the style of the RB4140, which are part of the brand’s sustainable collection made from 68% organic content—aligning well with Dylan’s social consciousness, while not outright copying his signature shades. Polarized lenses are also excellent for enhancing clarity and contrast while reducing glare. Pair these with a casual outfit; the less structured, the better – perhaps a loose pair of jeans and a slouchy vintage tee to start.
This five-time Grammy Award-winning R&B artist, whose real name is Gabriella Wilson, is rarely seen in public without oversized sunglasses shrouding her face. The “Every Kind of Way” singer revealed in an interview with Elle magazine that her decision to keep a low profile is deliberate – she wants fans to focus on her music, not her appearance. And for this, we are grateful. Because now, we have a veritable fashion inspo whose choice of eyewear never disappoints. Emulating her vibe calls for breaking out your most oversized frames or adding a new pair of sunglasses to your wardrobe, like Ray-Ban’s Bill frames. Wear them with a sleek hairstyle like a bun or slicked-back ponytail for a touch of glamour. You can also work in different colors and textures in your wardrobe, but always keep the shades on.
Treat these artists’ eyewear game as a blueprint for developing your on-stage style. Mix eras, play with colors, and don’t be afraid of putting your own spin on it. Go beyond replication and create a look that’s all yours, inspired by the legends who never shied away from the spotlight.
[This was a collaborative post by Kimberly Wright.]
