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Dad Glasses and Sunglasses: The Ultimate Guide

Angie Garcia

Written By:

Angie Garcia

Updated: 08 May 2024 •  
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Dad glasses — the term might stir up images of chunky, oversized frames reminiscent of those sported by our fathers or grandfathers in old family photos.
 
They were typically known for their thick rims and utilitarian, functional aesthetic rather than being fashionable or trendy.
 
However, as strange as it might sound, there’s an undeniable charm to this eyewear niche as it encapsulates different styles.
 
So, let’s take a look at how some of our beloved celebrities have reworked the term ‘dad glasses’!
 

What makes dad glasses so appealing?

a kid reaching out to grab a sunglasses worn on the father's face

The term dad glasses has evolved beyond a catch-all phrase for clunky, old-fashioned eyewear to one that embodies the stylish dads of today

 

In the past, dad glasses referred to eyewear styles that were considered outdated or unfashionable.
 
That perception has since shifted, and the term now encompasses a wide range of stylish and modern choices.

 
Going for a relaxed weekend look? Pair those chunky square frames with your favorite jeans and a comfortable tee.
 
Dressing up for a business meeting?
 
A pair of sleek, metal-rimmed frames can add a sharp edge to your professional attire.
 

Let’s take a look at how the stars do it:
 
John Legend wears dad sunglasses paired with a floral shirt at Disneyland with family

With his gray full-rimmed sunglasses and floral shirt combo, John Legend is ready for a sunny day at Disneyland along with his wife and kids. Source: Popsugar

 

David Beckham wears aviator sunglasses and a blue cotton shirt

David Beckham showcases casual dad chic in aviator sunglasses and a cotton blue shirt as he heads out with his wife Victoria and their kids after a meal. Source: Closer

 

Samuel L. Jackson: the firm and strong-willed dad

samuel l jackson wears dad glasses with transparent frame

A big part of Samuel L. Jackson’s signature look is his glasses, which are seen here in a unique transparent frame design. Source: NBC News

 
Samuel L. Jackson is a highly respected and influential actor known for his performances in iconic films like Pulp Fiction, Django Unchained, and the Avengers series, where he captivates audiences with his commanding presence and intensity.
 

samuel l jackson wears dad glasses with black frame

One of Samuel L. Jackson’s favorite style combinations is a pair of round full-rimmed glasses and a newsboy cap. Source: GQ

 
Outside of his legendary characters, Jackson typically goes for a more lowkey look even for public events, favoring round frames in black or transparent frames.
 
Through his array of eyewear, the veteran actor has proven that the right choice of frames can complement a bald look flawlessly.
 
Samuel L Jackson wears round black frames alongside his wife and daughter

Samuel L. Jackson wears his signature round black frames alongside his wife and daughter at a black-tie event. Source: HuffPost

 
To recreate his style, try the sleek Qualine frames in black.

 

 

Alternatively, you can go for the Bobby frames in a semi-sheer gray if you prefer a softer, more understated look.

 

 

Ryan Reynolds: the witty and business-savvy dad

ryan reynolds wears oval brown glasses

Hollywood leading man and entrepreneur Ryan Reynolds’ choice of thick black frames adds a polished touch to his business chic look. Source: Twitter

 

Ryan Reynolds has firmly cemented his status as a household name thanks to roles in blockbuster films like “Deadpool” and “Red Notice.”
 
Through these roles, he has proven himself as a bankable leading man in the entertainment industry.
 

However, Reynolds’ achievements stretch beyond the silver screen.
 
He is also an entrepreneur with successful investments in ventures including Mint Mobile, Aviation Gin, 1Password, and Wrexham AFC.
 
ryan Reynolds wears black rectangle glasses

Reynolds shows us that dad glasses aren’t just a fashion statement but a strategic accessory that can elevate any outfit. Source: British GQ

 

The actor’s style is a reflection of his professional success — refined yet rugged meets business chic.
 
Reynolds’ eyewear of choice fits right into his personal style, as he’s often seen sporting thick, square, or rectangular black full-rimmed frames that are reminiscent of Clark Kent’s iconic glasses.
 
These glasses strike the right balance between business formal and approachable, everyday-dad.
 
Ryan Reynolds wears thick black frames alongside his daughter on a football field

The actor/entrepreneur kicks back with his daughter in a casual ensemble featuring his go-to thick black frames. Source: Hollywood Life

 
Want this look? These versatile Cozy glasses let you seamlessly transition from work to leisure.
 

 

Another alternative is the Genius frames, which bring a refined and professional touch to your overall look.
 

 

Lenny Kravitz: the bold and mysterious dad

Lenny Kravitz wears square frames adorned with gold accents at the MTV VMAs red carpet

Lenny Kravitz makes a fashion statement on the MTV VMAs red carpet with his double denim outfit and stylish gold-accented square frames. Source: Esquire

 

Lenny Kravitz, a widely recognized rockstar, is acclaimed for his exceptional musical talent and skills.
 
With hit albums like “Let Love Rule” and chart-topping singles such as “Fly Away” and “Are You Gonna Go My Way,” Kravitz has made a lasting impact in the world of rock music.
 

lenny kravitz wears dad sunglasses with mirrored lenses

Kravitz’s aviators bring out his confident yet mysterious persona. Source: Pinterest

 

An extension of his experimental rockstar persona, Kravitz’s fashion choices are as distinctive as his sound.
 
His unique style fuses bohemian elements with a classic rock ‘n’ roll streak.
 

He often opts for aviator sunglasses that enhance his mysterious aura. The shades add a layer of intrigue and intensify his enigmatic charm.
 
His glasses are often paired with his signature leather jacket and skinny jeans, or more adventurous, flamboyant stage outfits.
 
Lenny Kravitz wears aviator sunglasses in an event with Jason Momoa, Lisa Bonet, and Zoë Kravitz,

Lenny Kravitz dons his stylish aviator sunnies while attending an event alongside Jason Momoa, his former wife Lisa Bonet, and daughter Zoë Kravitz. Source: TODAY

 
Emulate the rockstar’s cool cat aura with the oversized Luxury frames.
 

 

Otherwise, you can add a touch of retro glam to your outfit with the thick-rimmed Ray aviators.

 

 

Ryan Gosling: the suave, laidback dad

Ryan Gosling is renowned for his captivating performances in films such as “La La Land,” “Drive,” and “The Notebook.”
 
His charming on-screen presence and versatility as an actor have solidified his status as one of the industry’s most talented leading men.
 
Ryan Gosling wears square brown sunglasses while exiting the airport

Gosling makes the airport arrival lane his runway in a lumberjack-inspired plaid jacket layered over a sleek leather jacket and square brown sunglasses. Source: Vogue

 

In real life, the Canadian actor exudes a laid-back, humble persona that extends beyond his demeanor and into his style choices.
 
One element that embodies his casual yet cool aesthetic? His eyewear.
 
Gosling has a penchant for warm brown frames that are chic without being in-your-face.
 
Ryan Gosling wears square tortoiseshell glasses paired with a varsity-style jacket

Ryan Gosling has mastered the art of refined casual style, as he’s seen here in a varsity-style jacket paired with square tortoiseshell glasses. Source: British GQ

 
Channel his elegantly casual style with these Justin frames that have a classic aviator silhouette and a warm brown hue.
 

 

For something that’s a little out of the box, these Neko frames will add a touch of mystery to your look, thanks to their gradient lenses.

 

 

The diverse styles of dad glasses

a father wears oversized dad glasses alongside his two children playing video games

Beyond vision correction, dad glasses are a testament to the multifaceted personalities of fathers everywhere.

 

Dad glasses have come a long way since their humble beginnings as chunky, oversized glasses.
 
Today, they’re a testament to the diversity in dads’ styles and personalities.
 
Dad glasses have carved their own niche in fashion eyewear, not just because they’re practical but also for their ability to showcase a dad’s unique style.
 

At Mouqy, we’ve got the perfect pair to help any and every dad express themselves.
 
Get inspired and let your eyewear make a statement!

Angie Garcia

Written by:

Angie Garcia

Angie is a Manila-based writer who specializes in wellness and lifestyle topics. She likes trying out new workouts and drinking coffee when not writing.