By Mitch Rice
There’s no denying the transformative power of fashion in the music industry. From eccentric outfits to signature hairstyles, musicians have always used fashion as an extension of their artistic expression. Among the most prominent of these fashion statements are glasses. Some artists have made glasses so iconic, that we almost can’t picture them without them. Let’s dive into the stories of five music stars and their unforgettable eyewear.
1. John Lennon – Round Spectacles
When you think of John Lennon, the image that likely comes to mind is of the legendary Beatle with his trademark round glasses. The minimalistic wire-framed spectacles became synonymous with Lennon in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Not only did they give him a distinctive look, but they also became a symbol of peace, love, and counterculture. Today, these glasses are still known as “Lennon glasses,” a testament to the indelible mark he left on both music and fashion.
2. Elton John – Flamboyant Frames
Sir Elton John is not only one of the world’s best-selling music artists but also a true glasses icon. Over the years, he’s been seen in an array of flamboyant, colorful, and over-the-top eyewear, matching his exuberant personality and stage presence. From star-shaped frames to oversized and bedazzled glasses, Elton’s eyewear choices are as varied and spectacular as his musical repertoire. His glasses aren’t just an accessory; they’re a bold statement of his unique style and have been a significant part of his onstage persona for decades.
3. Buddy Holly – Thick Black Frames
Before hipsters made thick-rimmed glasses a mainstream fashion staple, Buddy Holly wore them with unmatched style and grace. Holly, one of the pioneers of rock ‘n’ roll, embraced these glasses as part of his brand, making them one of the most recognizable aspects of his image. His bold choice in eyewear, contrasting with the more conservative styles of the 1950s, signified a break from the norm and a nod to a new era of music and youth culture. Today, those distinctive black frames are a nod to vintage fashion and a reminder of Holly’s enduring influence.
4. Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes – Conspicuous Eye Black
While not glasses in the traditional sense, Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes of TLC fame made an unforgettable fashion statement with her unique eye black. Often, she sported a black stripe or design under her left eye, which became her signature look throughout the 90s. It added a touch of edginess and originality to her style, complementing TLC’s messages of self-expression and confidence. Left Eye’s eye black became an emblematic part of her identity, showcasing how even the most unconventional choices can leave a lasting impact.
5. Roy Orbison – Dark Sunglasses
Known for his emotive voice and melancholic ballads, Roy Orbison also became famous for consistently wearing dark sunglasses. These shades weren’t just a fashion choice; they became a part of his mysterious persona. Initially, Orbison started wearing the sunglasses after misplacing his regular glasses on tour, but the shades quickly became his signature look. They added an air of mystery and intrigue to the “Big O”, and fans came to expect the enigmatic singer to always don those iconic dark lenses.
Not just a trendy accessory
Eyewear, as showcased by these music legends, can be so much more than a tool for improved vision or protection from the sun. With Black Friday sunglasses deals around the corner, it reminds us of how iconic glasses can be not just a trendy purchase but a symbol of an era, a movement, or a legendary artist’s unique style. Glasses can define a persona, create an enduring image, and even symbolize broader cultural movements.
As these five stars have shown, the right pair of glasses can become as iconic as the music itself, serving as a timeless reminder of an artist’s influence and legacy. Whether it’s the peace-loving round spectacles of Lennon or the vibrant frames of Elton John, eyewear in the music world has forever made its mark on fashion history.
Data and information are provided for informational purposes only, and are not intended for investment or other purposes.
