THE BEAST

Credit: @ slash on Instagram

Fashion trends often draw inspiration from music subcultures, and few are as influential as the heavy metal scene. Beyond its unmistakable sound, the genre has cultivated a distinct aesthetic. Leather jackets, spikes, and biker accessories have become synonymous with metal. Much of this signature style traces back to the legendary Judas Priest. When the band fully embraced their leather-clad, spiked look in the late 1970s, they not only skyrocketed in popularity but also set the standard for heavy metal fashion. By 1980, their image was as iconic as their music, cementing leather and metal as an inseparable duo. 

Following Judas Priest's rise, other metal bands took this style and added their personal flair, incorporating elements like chains, boots, and sunglasses to enhance their stage personas. Icons such as Ozzy Osbourne of Black Sabbath and Slash of Guns N' Roses turned sunglasses into essential accessories, lending a sense of mystique to their public image. 

Let's take a closer look at three legendary metal bands whose members rocked sunglasses on stage and how they transformed eyewear into a symbol of metal coolness.

Black Sabbath

Credit: @ ozzyosbourne on Instagram

Black Sabbath, often hailed as the godfathers of heavy metal, revolutionized music with their dark, doom-laden sound. With hits like Paranoid and Iron Man, the band cemented their legacy as pioneers of the genre. At the center of it all was Ozzy Osbourne, whose enigmatic persona and theatrical performances captivated fans worldwide.

Ozzy’s choice of sunglasses added a layer of mystique to his stage presence. His preference for round, tinted lenses became a defining part of his look, complementing his dark, gothic wardrobe. To channel Ozzy’s vibe, opt for retro round sunglasses with colored lenses—amber, blue, or even purple. Some good options for this are the RB8313 or RB3447 sunglasses by Ray-Ban that can be found on Sunglass Hut. Pair them with a flowing black coat or a vintage Sabbath T-shirt for a look that screams classic metal.

Motörhead

Credit: @ officialmotorhead on Instagram

Few figures in metal are as instantly recognizable as Lemmy Kilmister, the gravel-voiced frontman of Motörhead. Though the icon passed in 2015, his legacy lives on through memorabilia like the Super7 ReAction figurine and, of course, Motörhead's catalog of music. Known for hits like Ace of Spades and their relentless touring schedule, Motörhead blended heavy metal with punk energy to create their own unique sound.

Lemmy’s sunglasses became as iconic as his mutton chops and cowboy hat. These shades exuded toughness and complemented his rebellious, no-nonsense image. For fans looking to emulate Lemmy, aviator sunglasses with mirrored lenses like the DG2296 from Dolce & Gabbana are a must. Combine them with a leather jacket and a graphic tee to capture his rugged, rock ‘n’ roll aesthetic.

Guns N' Roses

Guns N’ Roses stormed onto the scene in the late 1980s with their electrifying debut album, Appetite for Destruction. Known for hits like Sweet Child o’ Mine and Welcome to the Jungle, the band became the face of hard rock and glam metal. At the forefront was Slash, the enigmatic guitarist whose top hat and dark sunglasses became his trademark.

Slash’s choice of oversized, rectangular sunglasses added an element of mystery to his image, allowing the focus to remain on his blistering guitar solos. As seen during his surprise appearance at the 2024 Academy Awards, the shades, paired with his wild curls and signature hat, create an unforgettable stage presence. To channel Slash’s iconic look, go for large, dark-lensed sunglasses. Pair them with a leather vest, ripped jeans, and a vintage Guns N’ Roses logo tee for a bold, rock-inspired ensemble.

Fans looking to pay homage to their favorite rockers can take inspiration from these signature styles to add a touch of metal mystique to their wardrobe. After all, in the world of heavy metal, it’s not just about the music—it’s about the attitude, and the right pair of shades can take your style to the next level.

To stay updated on new releases, metal festivals, and more, visit the Metal Devastation Radio website .