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Audrey Hepburn & Marilyn Monroe: Iconic Vintage Sunglasses Styles (2025 Guide)

By VIVUE | Monday, August 11, 2025

Glasses aren’t just accessories—they’re history. Hollywood’s biggest legends didn’t just wear sunglasses; they turned frames into icons. From Audrey Hepburn’s bold cat-eyes to Marilyn Monroe’s seductive specs, these retro styles still shape today’s fashion. Let’s dive into 5 stars’ signature glasses, how to wear them, and which face shapes they flatter.

Hollywood Stars’ Vintage Sunglasses: Styles & How to Rock Them

Audrey Hepburn – Oversized Vintage Cat-Eye Glasses (The Epitome of Elegance)

Audrey Hepburn’s style is timeless for a reason. The Breakfast at Tiffany’s star balanced minimalist chic with bold choices—like her oversized cat-eye sunglasses. These thick-framed stunners added edge to her petite frame, proving elegance can be daring.

 

Hepburn’s Vintage Glasses Details:

 

Bold, thick frames with clean lines (a 1960s signature).

Best for: Wide square, round, oval, or heart-shaped faces (softens sharp angles).

Styling Tip: Pair with a little black dress or high-neck sweater for that “effortless Hepburn vibe.”

Charlotte Rampling – Oversized Square Vintage Glasses (Mysterious “Femme Fatale”)

Charlotte Rampling, the queen of European art cinema, made oversized square glasses her trademark. These frames matched her androgynous, detached style—perfect for anyone who wants to stand out without trying too hard.

 

Rampling’s Glasses Details:

 

Thick rims with a flat brow line (adds a serious, mysterious edge).

Best for: Wide round, oval, or heart-shaped faces (adds structure).

Styling Tip: Wear with a leather jacket or tailored blazer to channel her “coolly confident” energy.

 

Pro tip: These work for both casual outings and office looks.

Bette Davis – Round Sunglasses (Bold & Unapologetic)

Bette Davis didn’t just act—she revolutionized Hollywood. The Golden Age legend rocked round sunglasses with sailor-inspired outfits in the 1930s, proving risk-taking never goes out of style.

 

Davis’ Updated Round Sunglasses:

 

Modern twist: Small keyhole bridge + metal arms that flow from the brow line.

Best for: Square, rectangular, or diamond-shaped faces (balances strong jawlines).

Styling Tip: Pair with high-waisted pants or a striped shirt to nod to her vintage sailor look.

Marilyn Monroe – Cat-Eye Glasses (The Bold Seductress)

Marilyn Monroe defined 1950s glamour, and her cat-eye glasses were just as iconic as her white dress. These frames highlighted her playful yet seductive energy—proof that glasses can be sexy.

 

Monroe’s Cat-Eye Details:

 

Classic cat-eye shape with subtle curves (accents cheekbones).

Best for: Small square or diamond-shaped faces (adds softness).

Styling Tip: Pair with red lipstick and a fitted top to channel her “effortless allure.”

 

Trend alert: 2025 runways are still loving this retro shape—see our new arrivals.

Grace Kelly – Vintage Sunglasses (A Real-Life Princess)

Grace Kelly, the “Ice Princess,” turned vintage sunglasses into a symbol of understated luxury. Whether in Hitchcock films or royal events, her sleek frames matched her polished Dior dresses—elegance personified.

 

Kelly’s Vintage Sunglasses:

 

Streamlined cat-eye (stripped of excess, focus on sleek lines).

Best for: Oval, square, diamond, or heart-shaped faces (complements most features).

Styling Tip: Add pearls or a structured coat to mirror her “princess-approved” style.

FAQ: How to Choose Hollywood-Inspired Vintage Sunglasses

Q: Can retro glasses work for daily wear?
A: Absolutely! Hepburn’s cat-eyes pair with jeans; Rampling’s squares fit office looks. It’s all about balancing vintage with modern pieces.

Q: I have a round face—which star’s style should I pick?
A: Try Audrey Hepburn’s oversized cat-eyes or Charlotte Rampling’s square frames (they add definition).

Q: Are these styles still trendy in 2025?
A: Yes! Google Trends shows “vintage Hollywood sunglasses” searches are up 22% this year—icons never go out of style.

Shop Hollywood Legend-Inspired Sunglasses

Ready to channel Hepburn’s elegance or Monroe’s glamour? Explore our curated collection of retro frames, all updated for 2025. Each pair is designed to flatter your face shape—just like the stars.

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