Journal

Introducing the Original Pilot Blood Moon Limited Edition sunglasses, the dramatic next chapter in the AO Moon Series. Inspired by the total lunar eclipse of March 2026, this collector's piece features Deep Wine AOLite™ lenses and a Matte Armor Black Velvet frame. Only 999 serialized pairs of this limited-edition American Optical design will be made, celebrating the legacy of the Original Pilot as the first sunglasses worn on the moon.

The First Moonshot. On July 20, 1969, the universe, as we know, opened up. That was the day that Apollo 11 landed on the moon and Neil Armstrong uttered the...

For 90 years, American Optical aviator sunglasses have defined adventure, rebellion, and style. From their utilitarian beginnings with the D-1 and AN6531 military sunglasses to their celestial journey with Apollo 11, they’ve transcended their functional roots to become a cultural icon.

This International Women’s Day, we’re tipping our hats (and sunglasses) to the fearless pioneers who left their mark on optics, aviation, and art.

We all have someone on our list who’s tough to shop for: the friend who already has everything, the sister with impeccable taste, or the dad who’s obsessed with all...

Fall’s rolling in, and with it comes a whole new wave of style upgrades. Think deep, bold colors like oxblood and merlot that match perfectly with the crisp autumn air

Finding the perfect pair of sunglasses can be a challenge, especially when taking your unique facial features into account. For those with a high nose bridge, navigating the world of...

There’s nothing worse than an ill-fitting pair of sunglasses. If you're constantly adjusting your sunglasses or experiencing discomfort, you might have a low nose bridge and need a different fit....

For those who spend a lot of time outdoors, sunglasses are an essential accessory. But with so many varieties available, choosing the right pair can be a challenge. Polarized sunglasses...

Sunglasses are a summertime staple, and for good reason. They protect our eyes from harmful UV rays, reduce glare for safer driving and outdoor activities, and can even boost your...

Sunglasses are more than just a protective eye accessory — they're a fashion statement that completes your look. But with so many frame shapes to choose from, finding the perfect...

Selecting the ideal sunglasses for you is a blend of matching your personal style with the specific contours of your face. This nuanced approach is especially significant for those with...

Explore the timeless elegance of Alden sunglasses from American Optical, where vintage inspiration meets modern vision. Discover why Alden is set to become your new favorite accessory.Timeless Design with Modern...

Finding the perfect sunglasses can be a journey, especially when you're blessed with a diamond-shaped face. This unique and refined facial contour, characterized by both its balance and contrast, calls...

As graduation season arrives and Father’s Day looms on the horizon, finding the perfect gift for the men who matter most in your life can be challenging. This year, ditch...

Embark on a stylish quest to uncover the best sunglasses for your face, a delightful mix of fashion flair and functionality. A heart-shaped face is characterized by a broad forehead,...

Selecting the right sunglasses is crucial, not just for style but for eye health too. In the world of sunglasses, one major decision is choosing between polarized and non-polarized lenses....

When it comes to choosing the perfect pair of sunglasses, one of the key factors to consider is your face shape. For those with round faces, the quest to find...

Welcome to the world of classic sunglasses styles, where timeless design seamlessly blends with everyday functionality. Sunglasses are much more than a mere fashion statement, they stand as the ultimate...

Choosing the right frame material for your sunglasses is pivotal, not just for style, but also for comfort and durability. In this exploration of acetate and metal frames, we delve...

Finding the perfect pair of sunglasses can be a game-changer, especially when you're looking for the best sunglasses for an oblong face. Not all frames are created equal, and choosing...

When it comes to enjoying a successful day of fishing, having the right gear can make all the difference. At American Optical, we specialize in providing premium sunglasses designed to...

While summer might be the season most associated with sunglasses, protecting your eyes from harmful UV rays and glare is crucial year-round. Luckily, there are stylish options available to keep...

Sunglasses are more than just a fashion statement — they're a vital part of protecting your eyes from harmful ultraviolet rays. But with so many lens materials available, how do...

When it comes to choosing sunglasses, one of the most common questions is whether to go for full-frame vs half-frame sunglasses. The decision isn't just about aesthetics — it also...

Sunglasses are an essential accessory on sunny days. Not only do they protect your eyes from harmful UV rays, but different lens colors provide unique benefits. For example, green sunglass...

Jogging is a great way to stay active and enjoy the outdoors, whether you're just getting into it or have been doing it for a while. But here's something you...

The sun might be the source of life on Earth, but its ultraviolet (UV) rays can wreak havoc on your skin, especially the delicate skin around your eyes. While UV...

When you think of sunglasses, the usual picture in your mind is one of someone lounging at the beach on a sunny day. And while that’s certainly an ideal situation...

Whether boating in cool blue waves or casting a line on a shimmering lake, water activities open up a world of adventure. But the glint of sunlight on the water...

9 Reasons Why You Should Wear Sunglasses in Winter -When you think of sunglasses, you probably think of hot and sunny summer days. You might not even think to put...

The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to spread some cheer than with the gift of style and protection for the eyes? American Optical is here to...

Wearing Polarized Sunglasses for Sports: Should You Make the Switch?Whether you're a seasoned athlete or a weekend warrior, the choice of eyewear can significantly impact your performance. You have a...

7 Tips on Wearing Sunglasses with MakeupPicture this: You've spent time perfecting your makeup, achieving that flawless look, and then you put on your favorite pair of sunglasses, only to...

Mist-Free Vision: Top Tips on How to Stop Your Glasses from FoggingTired of foggy glasses getting in the way of your clear vision? Whether you wear glasses daily or occasionally,...

Turn Your AO Sunglasses into an Instant Halloween Costume You meticulously planned your kids’ costumes, even the dog is ready to receive trick-or-treaters, but...uh-oh! Suddenly it’s the end of October and...

Why Quality Matters: The Benefits of Investing in High-Quality SunglassesWhen choosing eyewear, the importance of quality in sunglasses can't be overstated. Investing in high-quality sunglasses isn't merely a fashion statement...

Top 10 Reasons Why Sunglasses Are More Than Just a Fashion AccessorySunglasses are not only a stylish accessory to complement your outfit but also serve several essential functions that contribute...

Can Sunglasses Affect Your Mood?Can sunglasses really uplift your state of mind? Let's dive into the fascinating world of sunnies and explore what science has to say. Beyond being a...

Why You Should Be Wearing Sunglasses on Cloudy DaysHave you ever wondered if wearing sunglasses on cloudy days is necessary? The truth is, your eyes need protection from harmful UV...

9 Tips for Choosing Sunglasses for Big FacesWhen it comes to sunglasses, finding the perfect fit is essential for both style and comfort. For individuals with big faces, selecting the...

No small print here, we promise. Reading sunglasses seamlessly combine the benefits of sun protection and vision correction into one stylish package.Tailored for your favorite outdoor activities like beach reading...

Can I Put Prescription Lenses in My Sunglasses?Imagine soaking up the sun on a bright summer day, your favorite sunglasses perched stylishly atop your nose, but oh, the blur of...

Can Water Damage Sunglasses?When it comes to protecting our sunglasses and prescription glasses, water exposure is a common concern. Whether it's rain, pool water, or even hot water for cleaning,...

Can Wearing Sunglasses Damage Your Eyes?With summer upon us and the sun shining brighter, we're often reminded of the importance of protecting our eyes from harmful UV rays. Sunglasses have...

How to Choose the Right Sunglasses for SeniorsAs we age, our eyes become more sensitive to the harmful effects of UV rays and bright sunlight. Proper eye protection is crucial...

Should You Wear Sunglasses While Driving?When it comes to driving, protecting your eyes should be a top priority. In this blog post, we'll explore the importance of wearing sunglasses while...

Announcing the first American Optical X Huckberry CollaborationWe are so happy to be working with Huckberry to offer a limited edition Original Pilot, with some very special features. Dubbed the...

How to Prevent Sunglasses from Slipping: Our Top 5 HacksAre you tired of constantly adjusting your sunglasses because they keep slipping down? Worry no more!In this article, we will share...

Mirrored vs Polarized Sunglasses: What to Choose?Sunglasses are a must-have accessory for anyone who wants to protect their eyes from the harmful effects of the sun's rays. Two popular types...

What are the parts of sunglasses called? - Sunglasses are a fashion accessory that not only protect our eyes from harmful UV rays but also add style to any outfit....

How to Clean Sunglasses the Right Way — Do's and Don'ts -Let's face it, sunglasses get dirty. They face the elements with us every day! Dirt, dust, and debris accumulate...

5 Best Sunglasses for Square Faces - When choosing sunglasses that will look the best on you, it's a good idea to consider the shape of your face. Here, we'll focus...

How Do You Store Sunglasses Properly?Your American Optical sunglasses are built to last - so store and organize them safely to keep them looking and feeling great for years to...

How Do UV Protection Sunglasses Work?When it comes to protecting your eyes from the harmful effects of UV rays, sunglasses with UV protection are your best bet. They are specifically...

10 Sunglasses Myths That Could Ruin Your Vision - Sunglasses aren't just stylish accessories; they play a vital role in safeguarding your eyes from the sun's harmful rays. However, misinformation...

How to Choose Sunglasses for Small Faces -If you have a small face, finding sunglasses that fit properly can be tricky. Here are some tips that can help you find...

How to Choose Sunglasses for Face Shape -As with all apparel and accessories, when shopping for sunglasses, it’s important to consider your shape to find the most flattering look. Though...

10 Ways Sunglasses Can Change the Way You LookAccessories play a crucial role in enhancing our overall appearance, and sunglasses are no exception.Not only do they protect our eyes from...

Vintage Sunglasses Shopping GuideWelcome to our vintage shopping guide, where we'll take you on a journey through the world of timeless eyewear. Whether you're a seasoned vintage enthusiast or just...

Last month, we had the honor of hosting Katherine Tai, the US Trade Representative, for a tour of our factory. Ms. Tai and AO CEO Scott Shapiro had the opportunity...

How Often Should You Replace Your Sunglasses? Sunglasses are essential for protecting your eyes from harmful UV rays and providing you with better vision in bright sunlight. They also have...

7 Best Sunglasses for an Oval Face Shape -As the most common face shape, a question we hear a lot is - What sunglasses look best on oval shaped faces?...

Sunglasses Trends 2023: 10 Styles to Consider - As 2023 gets underway, it's time to start thinking about your summer 2023 accessories, and what better place to start than with...

Tinted Sunglasses: Choosing the Best Tint for your Sunglasses -When choosing the right sunglasses for you, there’s more to think about than style. Above all, sunglasses are designed to protect...

7 Ways to Determine Authentic SunglassesWhen it comes to purchasing sunglasses, it's crucial to ensure that they are genuine. Counterfeit sunnies may not only fail to provide adequate protection for...

Can You Get New Lenses for Old Frames?You may reach a time in the life of your sunglasses where you wish to get new lenses but keep your existing frames.Is...

A guide to different types of sunglassesSunglasses are a great way to protect your eyes from the sun's harmful UV rays, and they can also add a touch of style...

Malcolm X wearing American Optical Sirmont. Photo: Marion S. TrikoskoWhat Glasses Did Malcolm X Wear? Close your eyes and you could probably describe every component of Malcolm X’s signature...

How to measure your face to choose sunglasses size?Finding the perfect pair of sunglasses can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to choosing the right size.A poorly fitting...

All You Need to Know About Gradient Sunglasses -When shopping for sunglasses, you have more options to consider than you might think. Though it’s easy to think just about what...

Ingredients: 2+ wild hearts, A full tank of gas, A plan, Being willing to abandon the plan Original Pilot in Gold When it came time to photograph the core AO sunwear collection, with styles born out...

The Sunglasses That Landed on the MoonWhen Neil Armstrong stepped on the moon and proclaimed “That's one small step for a man, one giant leap for mankind,” it was also...

The History of American Optical Saratoga SunglassesSometimes a classic item worn by a legendary figure takes on a persona all its own. Such is the history of the AO Saratoga,...

The Evolution of Aviator Sunglasses. For most of us, it’s not possible to remember a time before aviator sunglasses. That's how long aviators have stood for style and authority. Let’s take...