Ray-Ban Clubmasters

THE ASKMEN TAKE

In fashion, everything is cyclical. Such is the case for the latest set of shades from Ray-Ban, the Clubmasters. These frames, which are former stars from both the ‘50s and ‘80s, have made a massive comeback. They still sport the all-too-recognizable plastic half-frame that’s slightly pointed at the ends, but with this re-imaging, Ray-Ban has gone one step further: Its newest Clubmasters are available not only in traditional black, but also in red, blue and tortoise-shell gray. Even with their new color palette, the Ray-Ban Clubmasters are the tried-and-true sunglasses we know and love from decades past.

UNIQUENESS

Clubmasters not only define a style, they define a decade. When you spot a pair, you’re instantly taken back to your favorite memories of the days when the music was good, fashion was loud and John Hughes ruled cinema. That’s individualistic power you don’t find in today’s ubiquitous aviators, shields and wraparounds. Yes, the Ray-Ban Clubmasters are definitely the set of shades for the here and now. They have a look that’s all their own and they bring a bit of retro coolness back to a world of mundane sunglasses. With one-of-a-kind framing, Ray-Ban Clubmasters stand alone in a crowd. What’s even better is that now you can get them in red, blue or gray -- if black seems a bit too traditional for you. In fact, it’s the color options that helped spark the revival, so feel free to be as bold as you want. After all, Clubmasters aren’t only about style, they’re about lifestyle.

DURABILITY

These things just keep coming back around. We saw Clubmasters in the ‘50s, then they were back in the ‘80s and now here they are again in '09. Outstanding design and true style always seem to get rediscovered. If you add it all up, Ray-Ban Clubmasters have been around for the better part of half a century -- and if that’s not stamina, then what is? It can largely be attributed to the engaging and recognizable appeal that Clubmasters have. We see them and we immediately associate them with the carefree feelings of days gone by. The only problem with nostalgia, though, is that it usually passes. That might be exactly why Ray-Ban Clubmasters continue to pop in and out of the limelight, and that’s exactly why they should be added to your sunglasses collection immediately. They represent a retro style that’s still cool.