Ray-Ban is a globally renowned Italian-owned brand specializing in luxury sunglasses and eyeglasses, celebrated for its iconic designs, innovative technology, and enduring influence on fashion and pop culture. Founded in 1936 by American company Bausch & Lomb, Ray-Ban’s origins are rooted in military innovation: the brand was created to address the needs of U.S. Army Air Corps pilots, who required sunglasses that could reduce glare and protect their eyes at high altitudes. The original “Anti-Glare” prototype, featuring green lenses and plastic frames, evolved into the legendary Ray-Ban Aviator, patented in 1938. This model, along with the introduction of the Wayfarer in 1952, cemented Ray-Ban’s reputation for timeless style and quality craftsmanship. Ray-Ban’s commitment to innovation is evident in its pioneering use of anti-glare and gradient lenses, as well as its adoption of impact-resistant materials. Over the decades, the brand has become synonymous with celebrity culture, worn by icons such as Audrey Hepburn, Tom Cruise, and Michael Jackson, further solidifying its status as a fashion staple. In 1999, Ray-Ban was acquired by Italian eyewear conglomerate Luxottica Group for $640 million, marking a new era of global expansion and product diversification. Today, Ray-Ban continues to lead the eyewear industry with a blend of classic designs and cutting-edge technology. In 2025, the brand made headlines by appointing ASAP Rocky as its first-ever creative director and launching the Meta Ray-Ban Display, its first augmented reality glasses in partnership with Meta Corporation. This move underscores Ray-Ban’s ongoing commitment to merging fashion with technological advancement, ensuring its relevance in an ever-evolving market.