Which is better Aviator or Wayfarer?

In sunglass fashion, both aviator and wayfarer are the two most iconic styles we have so far. Although both types are most common and classic, but both may not fit well to everyone’s face. We all have different fashion preferences and different face sizes and shapes, as well. And some glasses will not fit perfectly with specific face shapes which they will with others. 

Brief History of Aviator and Wayfarer Sunglasses 

In the sunglass world, Aviator sunglasses along with running sunglasses have a very long history. In the 1990’s they were initially created by Bausch & Lomb. They mainly created the army pilots’ style to protect their eyes from the sun while they are in the cockpit. The first Aviators were made from the green G15 lens and golden frame. During that time, that was the only Aviator sunglasses available. From that time to now, Aviators have become more mainstream and gained popularity so quickly among all fashion lovers. And these sunglasses have become a staple fashion accessory. 

If we say that Aviator sunglasses began the sunglasses fashion trend, this declaration would be an understatement. 

Let’s get back to the wayfarer sunglasses. Wayfarer sunglasses have been developed many years after the Aviators. The original maker of Wayfarer sunglasses was Ray-Ban. The classic black wayfarers quickly gained acceptance and turned into one of the most popular sunglasses frames, similar to the aviator style.

These days sunglasses have become an essential accessory in our daily life. People don’t only use sunglasses to protect their eyes from harmful UV rays only; sunglasses have become a vital part of fashion and style. You can get many sunglasses in fashion trends. All different styles are now available in many colours, designs, and even materials. This fact will make your job easy to have the perfect Wayfarer or Aviator sunglasses as per your choice since you are not limited to one unique colour or design. You can pick aviator or wayfarer sunglasses made from metal, acetate, or wood and in any style or colour you need.

How to Choose Between Aviator and Wayfarer

How would you know which pair of sunglasses will look best on you? Here are a few tips that you can follow to decide which sunglasses would be best for you. 

1. Personal Fashion Preference 

If you love more cool classic or sophisticated type, then a pair of Aviators would be the perfect option for you. They will add a masculine to your look and appearance. However, this type is versatile that it can match with any outfit, whether you wear a tailored suit, or jeans and a white T-shirt. They would be the perfect accessories for you to uplift your appearance on any day. 

If you are a streetwear type of guy or like to have a more laid-back style, then a pair of wayfarer sunglasses would be the right choice. It will be easy to match with all you wear on top of adding a cold brink to your clothes. Wayfarer sunglasses will be your preferred flattering accessory. 

2. Face Shapes 

If your face cutting is not round, rather more of a vertical oblong, then wayfarer sunglasses will be suitable and best fit for you as it will balance with your face shape. But you can choose Aviator sunglasses if you have a round face shape. This will add extra length to it and will be gratifying on you.  

The best way to understand what style you should be selecting between these two types is to try out which one best fits and is suitable for your face shape and compliments your facial structures. Remember that what you will try to achieve here is a balance. Aviators are for more circular or rounded face shape, and wayfarers are for longer ones.

3. Nose Bridge 

One of the most critical issues to help you decide which shape of sunglasses would be the best fit is the bridge of your nose. A pair of aviators will match comfortably around your nose give you the best and most comfortable fit if you have a high bridge. On the other hand, wayfarers sunglasses may sit too high on your nose based on the design. This would give you an uncomfortable fit after long day wear.

However, if you have middle to low Nose Bridge, it will be way more contented with wayfarers. These sunglasses fit well on the nose. You will have the best look and outfit! But again, you need to do some experiment with all these styles to confirm that you are not avoiding out on the sunglasses with the most excellent fit and comfort.

4. Cheek Bones 

If you have high cheekbones, you can go for wayfarer style sunglasses because they are a bit smaller in their height and won’t be resting on your cheeks. In height, Aviator sunglasses are bit lengthier and can sometimes end up resting on your cheeks that will make for a lousy fitting.

But on the other hand, if you have lower cheekbones, then you have both options. You can choose either aviators or wayfarers. Both types of sunglasses will work for you and be the best fit as well; they won’t be too high on your face or touch your cheeks.

5. Pilots vs. Punks

Are you more with classic American style, or are you a bit edgier? 

If you are the earlier, then Aviator glasses will round out your masculine vibes. But on the other hand, if you are more street guy, then Wayfarers (in black), with the plastic or acetate frame, will be the perfect option for you, and they will not take the shine from the rest of your outfit.  

When selecting a pair of sunglasses, whether aviators, wayfarers, or any other types, your job is to make sure you have the right size, shape, and price. You always have to try them and check which one gives you the perfect fit and comfort. So try different types of sunglasses out there and figure out which one would be perfect for you!