Mirrorshade Sunglasses

 Mirrorshades

From the late 1970s, and all through 1980s, a necessary accessory for anyone wanting to be cool was a pair of mirrorshade sunglasses. I have several pairs in my possession, but I don't wear them, because when I have them on, I can't see for shit...........!

Clockwise, from top left: still from a video by George Faber and the Stronghold, MTV, 1983; advertisement for mirrorshades, 1980s; Sting, photoshoot for the album Synchronicity; 'Mirrorshades,' edited by Bruce Sterling, 1988; New York City policeman, photograph by Miron Zownir, 1982; Dew Westbrook, article from Esquire magazine, September 12, 1978 issue.

Michael J. Fox in Back to the Future.

 

Rik Ocasek of the Cars at Live Aid, 1985.

 

Stewart Copeland of the Police sporting some mirrorshades, late 1970s.

 

Karen Allen, modelling 'leatherman' apparel in a still from the 1980 movie Cruising.

 

 

An essay on mirrorshades and their iconic status in the genre of cyberpunk is available here.