Women’s History Month – which commenced on 8th March with International Women’s Day 2025 – is an annual celebration which gives us time to reflect on the extraordinary influence of women on events in history. Over the years, a number of women, especially famous ones, have sported memorable and iconic glasses which became an integral part of their identity. Glasses reflect their personality and sense of style but also symbolise their intellect, resilience and grace. Join us as we explore the glasses of some of the most remarkable women whose glasses became as iconic as their legacies. From political trailblazers to cultural icons, they have certainly made their mark on history.
Virginia Woolf: Timeless and intellectual
Virginia Woolf was an influential British-English writer who published most of her works in the early 20th Century. People know her best for her ground-breaking works such as Mrs. Dalloway, To the Lighthouse and Orlando. A central figure in the literary movement known as modernism, Woolf explored themes of identity, time and memory, often using stream-of-consciousness techniques in her writing. Her works broke conventional narrative structures. They delved deeply into the inner lives of her characters, challenging traditional norms of gender and sexuality. Woolf was also an advocate for women’s rights and her essays, including A Room of One’s Own, have had a lasting impact on feminists of all ages.
The acclaimed writer often wore a classic pair of round glasses. The circular-shaped frames became a signature style for many intellectuals and artists during the 20th Century. These timeless glasses were a clear reflection of her passion for the written word and her confidence in challenging social norms. Her glasses became part of her distinctive intellectual appearance. They added a sense of authenticity to the idea that a woman could simultaneously be a deep thinker and a creative force in a world dominated by men.
Rosa Parks: Trendsetting yet sophisticated
When discussing the most famous women in history, we can’t forget the ‘Mother of the Civil Rights Movement.’ People recognise American activist Rosa Parks for her bravery and resilience. In 1955, she changed history on a bus in Montgomery, Alabama when she refused to surrender her seat to a white passenger. This courageous act would spark the Montgomery Bus Boycott that would later end racial segregation. She became a figurehead for the National Association for the Advancement of Coloured People (NAACP) and continues to inspire the fight for justice and equality.
Parks was one of the first people to wear geometric glasses. She was often pictured in octagon-shaped frames. In her earlier years, she tended to wear subtle rimless and metal glasses of varying shapes and designs. These contemporary yet refined-looking frames reflect her quiet strength and powerful sense of justice. Her glasses became a trademark of her identity. In later life, she continued to favour this distinctive style along with oversized oval glasses shapes.
Marilyn Monroe: Elegant and mysterious
A glamorous American actress, model and singer, known for her beauty, talent and charisma. Marilyn Monroe was much-more than the blonde bombshell Hollywood depicted her to be on the big screen. Rising to fame in the 1950s, Monroe was ahead of her time. She challenged the norms of Hollywood by fighting for control over her career and speaking out against exploitation. Monroe openly sought her own empowerment and independence in a male-dominated environment. Despite her own struggles behind closed doors, she established her own production company and become one of the first women to do so. Her actions suggest that she was brave and determined, unafraid to fight for her own autonomy and challenge gender stereotypes. Her legacy as a timeless figure in pop culture continues, even after her untimely death in 1962.
Marilyn Monroe’s iconic cat-eye glasses became her signature, emphasising her bold and confident sense of style. These glasses, with their upswept outer edges, added an extra dose of drama to her already glamorous look, exuding both playfulness and elegance. Her cat-eyes were a symbol of her personality, combining the chic on-screen Hollywood starlet with the woman who cared about her comfort and intellect. This gives us a glimpse into the private moments of her life in which she balanced her larger-than-life public image with moments of vulnerability. Today, her cat-eye glasses remain a symbol of vintage glamour, making them timeless in the world of fashion.
Gloria Steinem: Confident and fearless
Gloria Steinem is a pioneering American journalist and social-political activist, widely recognised as a leader in the feminist movement. Steinem worked as a columnist for New York magazine and co-founded Ms. magazine in 1972, which became a powerful platform for women’s voices and issues. Throughout her career, she advocated for human rights, gender equality and social justice. She challenged traditional gender roles and championed reproductive rights, workplace equality and sexual freedom. Steinem’s activism and writings have inspired generations of women and solidified her legacy as one of the most influential feminists of the 20th Century.
Steinem’s style, especially her glasses, became a defining aspect of her persona. She had a rebellious yet glamorous sense of style in the early 1970s. Steinem often paired her fashionable polo necks and flares, or miniskirts and jewellery with large Aviator glasses. She wore these in a unique way with the temples placed over her hair. These sleek, bold frames have a unique connection to Steinem’s identity as an activist and make a bold power statement. Aviator glasses were once a very masculine style and have historic links to the military, making them even more of a striking choice. Her aviator glasses became a visual representation of her fearless approach to feminism and her commitment to breaking down barriers.
Iris Apfel: Daring and distinctive
Born in 1921, Iris Apfel was an American businesswoman, interior designer and fashion icon. In 1950, she co-founded the textile company Old World Weavers with her husband, Carl. The company was highly successful. The Apfels specialised in restoring historical fabrics for the White House and many major museums.
Iris Apfel gained widespread recognition later in life for her flamboyant sense of style. This led to museum exhibitions, collaborations with major brands and a career as a style influencer well into her 100s. She had a fearless approach to self-expression and conveyed her individuality through the clothes she wore. Apfel’s unique look, which often included statement accessories and colourful ensembles, has made her a beloved figure in the fashion world. At an age when many women might be slowing down, Apfel defied aging norms and proved she was the very definition of ‘young at heart’, empowering older women. She also showed the world that glasses are an essential accessory for those who dare to be different.
Apfel was famous for her oversized, bold and often quirky glasses. These frames, with their colourful and eclectic designs, reflect her fearless approach to fashion. Apfel’s glasses became symbolic of her personality — vibrant, unapologetic and always ahead of trends. She sadly passed away earlier this month at the age of 102. However, she continues to inspire fashionistas with her distinctive, playful fashion and accessory choices.
Ariana Grande: Role model and fashionista
A multi-talented American singer, songwriter and actress, Ariana Grande is an inspiration to many. She landed her first big break on the TV series Victorious before transitioning into a successful music career. Her music blends pop, R&B and soul influences, showcasing her vocal prowess and emotional depth. Beyond her talent for music, fans also admire Ariana for her activism. She uses her platform to speak out on issues such as mental health, LGBTQ+ rights and social justice.
A contemporary feminist icon, Ariana Grande is known to be a huge advocate for gender equality, empowerment and self-expression. Through her music, public statements and personal actions, she champions rights of women, embraces body positivity and consistently speaks out against misogyny. With a fierce commitment to equality, Ariana has become a role model for young women everywhere. She encourages them to embrace their individuality, challenge societal expectations and stand up for themselves. Her defiant confidence and advocacy make her a powerful voice in the ongoing fight for women’s empowerment.
Ariana’s signature look, characterised by her high ponytail, winged eyeliner and glamorous style, has become iconic. Her fashion and accessories often blend vintage glamour with modern style. Despite not needing to wear prescription glasses, Grande is totally on board with the trend. Fans have spotted her on numerous occasions wearing a stylish frame without any lenses. They have become an iconic part of her signature look. Grande loves to make a statement in retro-style oversized frames, particularly sassy cat-eyes and curvy round shapes. Her glasses are a clear reflection of her confidence and playful sense of style. They convey that she is not just a pop star but also an independent woman. One who is self-assured, mature and brave enough to embrace different aspects of her personality. By wearing glasses, Grande is letting the world know that she is not only independent and classy but also down-to-earth and relatable.
