Wayfarer sunglasses have been in and out of fashion. They first appeared in the 1950s and remained popular throughout the 1960s. Ray Ban, the creator and manufacturer of this style, kept them in their product line throughout the 70s, although the style itself became less popular during the decade. In the 1980s, however, Ray Ban considered retiring the style unless it caught on. Essentially through product placement in movies, travelers have returned and are considered today a staple of 1980s fashion.

But, as wayfarer sunglasses have shown, fashion is cyclical, trending again every 20 years or so. Not all styles make a comeback, but travelers have and are now a highly sought after item for eyewear. Originally, walkers had an angular appearance, making them more flattering for a variety of face types. Anyone with a long round face shape could wear them and not have an accentuated flaw. In the present, Ray Ban has given sunglasses a different look: while the more angular frames of the past remain, having rounded edges is the ultimate look for wayfarer frames.

Color has been one of the selling points of wayfarer sunglasses. In general, wayfarer frames have a gender-neutral or unisex appearance; A man or woman can wear a pair of black-on-black aviator sunglasses and not look too masculine or feminine. Although black on black is essentially a classic look for these frames, adding color gives them character and personality. The bolder colors for the frames have been popular; Ray Ban, for example, has turquoise, blue and red frames and other manufacturers do the style in neon. The lenses are also offered in a similar color palette, which also includes metallic shades.

Wayfarer sunglasses were back in fashion three years ago and now seem to be a modern fashion must-have. With many color possibilities, the frames fit in with any style. Go for a classic look with black-on-black frames, or experiment more with adding color.