Aviator sunglasses – sometimes called “pilot sunglasses” – are defined by their signature silhouette: large teardrop-shaped lenses, a slender metal frame, and a double or triple bridge across the nose. Originally designed for U.S. military pilots in the 1930s, aviators were engineered to shield the entire eye area (and peripheral vision) from sunlight at high altitudes.

That practical foundation – sun protection, coverage, clarity – quickly evolved into something more. With their sleek lines and minimalist silhouette, aviator sunglasses became a fashion staple. Today, they remain one of the most recognizable and enduring eyewear styles on the planet.

At MOSCOT, we reimagine the aviator through our downtown NYC lens, blending military precision with everyday wearability in styles like The SHTARKER SUN and The SHAV SUN – modern interpretations of a timeless classic.

Absolutely. Aviator sunglasses are in style, and have been for nearly a century. Their legacy spans function and fashion – from the cockpits of WWII fighter planes to red carpets, runways, and city streets.

What keeps aviators relevant? A few things:

• Their versatility (they look just as good with a tee as they do with tailoring)
• Their ability to flatter a wide range of face shapes
• Their effortless edge – aviator sunglasses are cool by nature

Whether you’re after a traditional gold metal frame with green lenses or a bold, contemporary take with Custom Made Tints™, aviators remain one of the most stylish sunglasses shapes for men and women alike.

Fit is everything when it comes to aviators – because their impact lies in their proportions. Here’s how aviator sunglasses should fit for maximum comfort and style:

Lens Coverage: The lenses should cover the entire eye area, ideally aligning with or slightly overlapping your eyebrows and upper cheekbones. That signature teardrop shape? It’s designed to protect from sunlight coming in at all angles.

Bridge Fit: If your aviators have a double bridge or adjustable nose pads, they should sit comfortably on your nose – no pinching, no sliding. A secure bridge means you can wear them all day, every day.

Temple Length: Temples should extend past your ears and rest gently without pressing in. They should never feel too tight – or too loose.

Frame Width: The width of your aviators should match the natural width of your face. Too wide and they’ll overpower; too narrow and they’ll pinch.

At MOSCOT, every aviator frame is handcrafted with multiple sizes and adjustable components so you can get the perfect fit – whether you're flying high or strolling Orchard Street.

Aviator sunglasses were invented in the 1930s, designed specifically for U.S. Army Air Corps pilots battling the intense glare of high-altitude flying. The original versions were rigid and utilitarian, but by 1941, lighter-weight metal frames had taken over – bringing comfort and visibility to the forefront.

It didn’t take long for the public to catch on. By the 1940s and ’50s, aviators had made the leap from cockpit to sidewalk, becoming a staple of Americana – and global fashion. The design has evolved with modern materials and fresh interpretations, but the essence remains: protective, functional, iconic.

Let’s not overthink it – yes, aviator sunglasses are cool. Always have been, always will be. There’s something inherently confident about the aviator silhouette. It’s laid back but intentional. Sharp but easygoing. Equal parts old-school and right-now.

From pilots to rebels, rock stars to style icons, aviators have graced generations of wearers who lean into timeless style with a bit of edge. Pair them with denim, suiting, or your favorite vintage tee – aviators bring character to every look.

Everyone. Aviators are one of the most universally flattering frame styles out there. That said, a few face shapes benefit particularly from the aviator silhouette:

Oval faces can wear virtually any aviator size or shape.

Square faces benefit from the curves of the teardrop lens, which soften angles.

Heart-shaped and diamond-shaped faces appreciate how aviators balance width and length.

The key? Get the right lens size, bridge fit, and frame width for your proportions.

They sure can. Many MOSCOT styles – including our aviator-inspired frames – are available with prescription lenses. You can even personalize yours further with:

• Polarized lenses for glare reduction
• Custom Made Tints™ for signature color
• Blue light filtering lenses for screen time comfort

So yes – aviators aren’t just for sunny days. They’re great for everyday wear, too.

Here’s your MOSCOT checklist:

Lens Shape & Size

• Classic teardrop or softened curves? Go with what complements your features.

Frame Material

• Thin metal is traditional, but combo frames (like acetate temples or bold accents) offer modern edge.

Nose Pads & Bridge Fit

• Adjustable pads and a properly fitting bridge keep things comfortable all day.

Lens Tint & Protection

• Style meets function with UVA/UVB-blocking lenses in a range of tints – from vintage green to bold blue or warm brown.

Overall Proportion

• Balance is everything. Choose aviators that align with your facial width and feature placement.

At MOSCOT, we don’t just make sunglasses – we craft them with over a century of experience, five generations of family expertise, and a distinctly downtown NYC perspective.

Our aviator-inspired styles blend utility with individuality – so whether you're going classic or bold, there’s a frame that fits your style, your face, and your life.

Because when aviators are done right – they’re not just eyewear. They’re attitude.