Fashion trends often ignite from unexpected sparks, and for Dior's iconic So Real sunglasses, it was Rihanna who set the stage ablaze during the Fall 2014 shows. Her striking ensemble at the Dior presentation, complete with thigh-high stockings, diamond jewellery, and a bold red fur coat, was elevated further by the pièce de résistance – the Dior So Real mirrored sunglasses perched on her face. Instantly, these reflective, bridgeless spectacles became an overnight sensation, causing ripples across the fashion landscape.

Influencers, celebrities, and Rihanna enthusiasts alike clamoured for these statement shades, catapulting them into the realm of must-have accessories.

   

Bella Hadid wears Dior So Real sunglasses

Redefining Elegance: Raf Simons' Vision

Raf Simons took the reins as the Creative Director of Christian Dior in 2012, bringing with him a fresh perspective that merged contemporary aesthetics with the heritage of the iconic fashion house. Under his guidance, Dior underwent a transformation that infused modernity into its traditional elegance.

The So Real sunglasses, introduced during Simons' tenure, mirrored his design ethos – a fusion of classic elements with avant-garde innovation. Simons reimagined the classic aviator style by incorporating architectural elements and distinct details, creating a silhouette that was both futuristic and reminiscent of past eras.

Simons' designs for Dior often included his signature touch, characterised by clean lines, unexpected juxtapositions, and a blend of boldness with refined subtlety. The So Real sunglasses perfectly embodied this aesthetic, becoming an emblem of Simons' vision for the brand. 

His influence extended beyond mere design; Simons' impact was transformative, shaping Dior's identity and resonating across the fashion landscape. The So Real sunglasses, with their daring design and unique appeal, became a symbol of Simons' innovative approach to luxury fashion at Dior. Simons stepped down as Creative Director of Dior after a three-year reign to focus on his own brand. 

A Style Evolution: From Rihanna to the Runway

The So Real sunglasses' journey to fame began with Rihanna's iconic appearance at the Fall 2014 Dior show. Her eye-catching ensemble, complemented by these striking shades, sparked an internet frenzy, catapulting them into the fashion limelight overnight.

Beyond celebrity endorsement, these sunglasses became a fashion staple, embraced by style icons such as Olivia Palermo, Kylie Jenner, Selena Gomez and Zhang Ziyi, to name a few. Their versatility effortlessly suited diverse fashion statements, from glamorous to elegantly layered looks.

Under Raf Simons' creative direction, the So Real sunglasses merged vintage inspiration with avant-garde design. This fusion made them a runway favourite, representing a timeless allure amid ever-changing trends. From Rihanna's debut to gracing fashion runways, the So Real sunglasses emerged as an emblem of enduring style, leaving an indelible mark in fashion history.

Innovation and Legacy

Dior's Cruise 2017 collection redefined the So Real sunglasses with new design elements. The addition of wave-like three-stripe effects and subtle brow-level studs elevated their allure, marking a pivotal evolution. These intricate touches represented Dior's commitment to innovation, transforming the sunglasses into sophisticated, artful accessories. This reinvention ensured that the So Real sunglasses continued to captivate fashion enthusiasts, solidifying their status as timeless icons in luxury eyewear.

The End of an Era

The fashion world bid farewell to an era when Dior made a poignant decision to discontinue the So Real sunglasses. This announcement signalled the end of a chapter in the annals of fashion, marking a bittersweet moment for enthusiasts who had adorned themselves with these iconic shades. Despite their meteoric rise and the enduring popularity that cemented their place as fashion staples, the So Real sunglasses reached the culmination of their journey. 

However, even with their production ceasing, the legacy of the So Real sunglasses remains indelible. Their influence and imprint on the realm of luxury eyewear transcend their physical presence. These sunglasses were more than accessories; they were a statement, a symbol of innovation, elegance, and timeless style.

Explore More of Dior's Iconic Must-Haves

While the sun sets on the era of Dior So Real sunglasses, the brand's legacy of iconic eyewear continues through other timeless models. Among these, the 30 Montaigne stands as a beacon of sophistication and elegance. Named after the historic address of the Dior Maison in Paris, this model embodies the spirit of the House. Its refined silhouette and meticulous craftsmanship pay homage to the legacy of Dior, capturing the essence of timeless chic.

Additionally, the DiorPacific and Dior Lady models shine as modern classics in the realm of luxury eyewear. The DiorPacific embraces a bold and contemporary design, drawing inspiration from the allure of travel and adventure. On the other hand, the Dior Lady exudes an air of refined femininity, combining delicate details with a graceful aesthetic.

Pictured above: Dior Lady 9522 R2I 10A1

While the So Real sunglasses may feel like the end of an era, Dior's commitment to exquisite craftsmanship and innovation ensures that its lineup continues to evolve, offering a myriad of stylish alternatives that epitomize the brand's signature elegance and charm.

Explore our Dior Sunglasses Collection & Dior Optical Glasses Collection

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