Legend Sunglasses: Vuarnet Icons for Everyday Wear
Vuarnet Legend sunglasses tell part of the brand’s story. Their silhouettes have roots in the 1960s and continue a founding idea: combining a recognisable frame design with mineral glass lens expertise. Today, the collection offers several Originals models with different proportions, colours and lens configurations.
When choosing vintage-style sunglasses, begin with the silhouette that appeals to you, then compare its fit and lenses. Black frames, tortoiseshell finishes and transparent versions give different expressions to these historical lines. Find the combination you will enjoy wearing in everyday life.
A History Connecting Optics and Skiing
Vuarnet’s story begins in 1957, when optician Roger Pouilloux developed the Skilynx lens. His meeting with Jean Vuarnet led to the creation of the brand following the French skier’s Olympic downhill victory in 1960.
Model 02 belongs to that history. Pouilloux gave the frame to the champion before his Olympic success. This connection between frame design and lens expertise provides a useful starting point for understanding the Legend collection.
The collection also has connections with film and music. Its appeal draws on that history while continuing to offer designs for contemporary everyday wear.
Vintage-Inspired Sunglasses for a Modern Wardrobe
Choosing Legend sunglasses brings historical lines into a current collection. Their vintage character comes through the frame shapes, proportions and colour combinations.
You do not need a period-inspired wardrobe to wear them. A dark frame can complement neutral clothing, while a transparent finish and mirrored lenses can introduce more colour. The aim is to choose sunglasses that feel consistent with your own way of dressing.
Explore other interpretations within our selection of lifestyle sunglasses. It brings together several collections to compare according to your everyday needs and preferred appearance.
Consider how prominently you want the frame to feature in an outfit. A stronger outline may become a defining detail, while a more transparent finish can give the lens colour greater visual emphasis.
Which Legend Originals Model Should You Choose?
Legend model numbers identify distinct designs. They do not form a scale of size or performance. Look at the characteristics of each reference to guide your comparison.
- Legend 02 Originals: a design closely connected to the brand’s heritage, available with options including Skilynx lenses. Its specifications describe a nylon frame with integrated monobloc hinges.
- Legend 03 Originals: a rectangular nylon silhouette featuring a removable insert at the bridge.
- Legend 04 Originals: a reinterpretation of a 1960s design, with a rectangular nylon frame and different colour combinations.
- Legend 05 Originals: a rectangular nylon design described as unisex and suited to broader faces.
- Legend 06 Originals: a streamlined rectangular silhouette, also made from nylon, with proportions specific to this model.
- Legend 07 Originals: a rectangular frame reinterpreting the brand’s 1960s design language through contemporary colours and different lens options.
These descriptions provide a starting point. To choose between similar models, compare lens height, bridge width and temple design as well as the outline of the frame.
Legend 05 and Legend 07: Compare the Proportions
Legend 05 Originals and Legend 07 Originals illustrate how the collection continues to evolve. Both revisit historical styling through nylon construction, but their measurements differ.
The Legend 05 product information lists a 56 mm lens width and 17 mm bridge. Legend 07 lists a 55 mm lens width and 18 mm bridge. Both descriptions specify 145 mm temples.
These figures do not represent the total width of the frame. They help you compare particular dimensions and should be considered alongside a fitting. A difference in bridge shape or the contour of the front can change how sunglasses feel, even when their measurements are similar.
Use a comfortable pair you already own as a reference, then assess how each Legend model sits on your face.
Black, Tortoiseshell or Transparent: Choose Your Expression
Colour has a strong influence on the appearance of vintage-style frames. Black gives greater definition to the outline around the eyes. Tortoiseshell introduces changes in tone, while transparent finishes allow more of your features to remain visible.
Compare the combination of frame and lenses rather than the frame colour alone. Legend 05 includes a Tortoise / Grey Polar option, while Legend 07 offers Shiny Tortoise / Brown Polar. These combinations give different expressions to a related colour family.
For sunglasses you plan to wear regularly, picture them with several outfits from your actual wardrobe. You can then refine your selection according to comfort and lens properties rather than choosing from a photograph alone.
Look at the frame from the side as well as the front. Temple thickness and the way the colour continues around the frame also contribute to the overall appearance.
Nylon Frames with Model-Specific Manufacturing Origins
The Originals models consulted use nylon frames. Several product descriptions specify flexible construction with shape memory and integrated monobloc hinges.
Manufacturing origin varies by reference. The Legend 02, 03, 04 and 06 product pages indicate French frame manufacture, while Legend 05 and Legend 07 are described as made in Italy.
To compare this construction with another material, explore Belvedere sunglasses and their acetate designs. The Alpine collection also offers combinations of acetate and nylon, depending on the model.
During a fitting, assess the contact points at the nose and behind the ears. Frame material is one part of comfort, alongside dimensions and the shape of the components.
Mineral Glass Lenses: A Signature of Legend
Legend sunglasses feature Vuarnet mineral glass lenses. They are manufactured in Meaux, France, at a facility recognised with the Entreprise du Patrimoine Vivant label. Vuarnet describes a 17-stage production process.
“The production of our mineral lenses is an art form.” — Vuarnet, Mineral Lenses Guide.
Lens tint and treatments are part of choosing your pair. Consult our guide to Vuarnet mineral glass lenses to compare the available technologies and their intended uses.
The origin of the lenses should be distinguished from that of the frame. An Italian-made frame can still be fitted with Vuarnet mineral glass lenses manufactured in France.
Pure, Skilynx or Polarized: Choose for Your Use
Legend sunglasses are available with different lens configurations. Depending on the reference, options include Pure, Skilynx, polarized lenses and mirror treatments.
For example, Legend 03 Shiny Black / Pure Grey is specified with category 3 lenses and 100% UV protection. Legend 07 includes a Shiny Tortoise / Brown Polar option.
Explore our sunglasses with polarized lenses if you want to compare this technology. A mirror appearance alone does not establish that a lens is polarized: check the equipment stated for the exact version you select.
Frame colour and lens technology should be considered separately. Two versions of the same model may differ in more than appearance, so read the lens specifications before making your choice.
Fit and Prescription Options
When trying on Legend sunglasses, check that they remain stable as you look down and do not create uncomfortable pressure around the temples. Compare their measurements with those of a pair that already fits you comfortably where possible.
The Legend product pages indicate prescription possibilities. Prepare for a conversation with an optician by considering your prescription, everyday activities and preferred lens tint.
Read more about our prescription sunglass lenses, then speak to a Vuarnet boutique or authorised optician to confirm the combinations available for your chosen model.
FAQ: Vuarnet Legend Sunglasses
Why Is Legend Associated with Vintage Style?
The collection revisits designs connected to Vuarnet’s history and the 1960s. Its current models continue that heritage through different colours, proportions and lens configurations.
What Is the Difference Between Legend Originals Models?
Each number identifies a distinct frame. Dimensions, bridge shape, front design and available lenses can differ. Compare the product specifications and try several models where possible.
Are Legend Sunglasses Made in France?
Frame origin depends on the model. The Legend 02, 03, 04 and 06 product pages indicate French manufacture, while Legend 05 and Legend 07 specify Italy. Vuarnet mineral glass lenses are manufactured in Meaux, France.
Are All Legend Sunglasses Polarized?
No. Polarization depends on the lenses fitted to the selected reference. Some versions offer Grey Polar or Brown Polar lenses, while others use different technologies.
How Do I Choose Between Legend 05 and Legend 07?
Compare their designs and dimensions. Legend 05 lists a 56 mm lens width and 17 mm bridge, compared with 55 mm and 18 mm for Legend 07. Trying them on helps establish your preference.
Can Legend Sunglasses Be Fitted with Prescription Lenses?
Prescription options are offered according to the model. A Vuarnet boutique or authorised optician should confirm suitability for your correction and preferred lenses.
