Dating all the way back to the 1930’s, Ray-Ban remains synonymous with timeless design and superior quality. Their sunglasses have been a staple of American style for decades, offering versatile options for every face shape and personal taste. From classic Aviators to more contemporary frames, Ray-Ban continues to lead the eyewear market.
Ray-Bans were initially developed to help shield the eyes of pilots, conceived with the help of a pilot himself. John Macready was a pilot who had a bad run-in with pilot goggles fogging up. He had to fish his comrade out of a plane after his eyes froze up when he took off his fogged flying goggles. Macready worked with Bausch & Lomb, a brand name which also lives on to this day, to develop the World’s first “aviator” sunglasses. The name stemmed from the need to “ban rays,” meaning the rays of the sun. The glasses went on sale to the public in 1937, and were later popularized by Air Force pilots during World War II. James Dean and Tom Cruise helped to popularize the brand over the years, with the glasses featuring starring roles in a number of iconic America films.
Wayfarer (RB2140) — The archetypal acetate frame with a slightly forward-canting silhouette that flatters most faces. The Original Wayfarer keeps thick temples and the familiar pin details, and is offered in multiple lens/size combos so you can go timeless (green G-15) or modern (gradients, polarized). If you want the “instant classic” look that pairs with everything from tees to tailoring, start here. (Ray-Ban)
Aviator (RB3025) — A lightweight metal teardrop that delivers lots of coverage without feeling heavy, thanks to slim temples and adjustable nose pads. Available with polarized options and the signature green lenses, the Aviator reads sporty or dressy depending on finish; Arista gold is the iconic choice, while darker frames skew stealthier. Great if you prefer a barely-there feel with big-lens presence. (Ray-Ban)
Clubmaster (RB3016) — A “browline” mash-up of acetate on top and metal below that hits the sweet spot between vintage and sharp. The Clubmaster sits a touch higher on the face than a Wayfarer and looks especially good dressed up, but polarized and gradient lenses keep it practical day-to-day. Choose this if you want a little more attitude and formality in the same frame. (Ray-Ban)
Round Metal (RB3447) — Wire-rimmed rounds that feel effortless, light, and a bit bohemian. Thin temples, classic nose pads, and lens choices from solid to polarized make this an easy daily driver if you prefer minimal hardware and a retro profile. It’s the most “disappears-on-your-face” pick of the bunch while still reading iconic. (Ray-Ban)
Erika (RB4171) — A modern round-ish shape with a soft keyhole bridge and metal temples that keeps weight down and comfort up. Offered in neutrals and fashion colors (plus polarized options on select SKUs), Erika is a versatile, face-friendly choice if you want something lighter and slightly larger-feeling than classic metals but sleeker than chunky acetate. (Ray-Ban)
New Wayfarer (RB2132) — Same spirit as the Original, but with a slightly smaller, softer eye shape and reduced tilt, which many find easier to wear. If the RB2140 feels a bit bold or sits too upright on your face, the New Wayfarer keeps the look while dialing back the angles. (Ray-Ban)
Justin (RB4165) — Inspired by Wayfarer but bolder and more casual, often in a grippy rubberized finish. The slightly larger, squarer lens shape reads sporty without going full wrap, and it’s a value-friendly way to get an everyday pair with attitude. (Ray-Ban)
Caravan (RB3136) — A squared-off take on the aviator idea, with straight lines and a leaner footprint. It’s the choice when you like metal classics but prefer geometry over teardrops; coverage stays generous, and finishes range from Arista gold to gunmetal. (Ray-Ban)
Fit and lens tips — Most of these frames come in multiple widths; if you’re between sizes, Ray-Ban’s size and face-shape guides help you dial fit before you customize lenses. For all-day driving and water glare, polarized lenses are worth it; for style-forward daily wear, gradients keep eyes hidden without going too dark; and if you want a “one pair everywhere” experience, consider light-responsive options that tint outdoors and clear up inside. Prescription is available across the lineup directly through Ray-Ban.
Bottom line — Wayfarer is the universal classic; Aviator is light with big coverage; Clubmaster adds dressed-up edge; Round Metal is minimal and retro; and Erika blends comfort with a modern silhouette. Pick your profile first, then fine-tune size and lenses—the reason these frames endure is that they meet you where your style (and day) actually lives.