The eminent hip hop legends of our time, did more than just craft rhymes all day, they created history, in music and in fashion. Baggy pants, oversized t-shirts, thick gold chains, sneakers and sunglasses became the staple of hip-hop legends, almost making it a universal uniform. One product, out of all, that stands out is the legendary CAZAL sunglasses.
CAZAL eyewear has long been engrained in modern popular culture, often seen as a status symbol for the rich and famous. It’s particularly associated with hip-hop music and fashion, with many of the world’s biggest rap stars sporting CAZAL sunglasses in their videos and public appearances. In the very early days of CAZAL, things were a little different.
25 years ago CAZAL gained dubious fame in the USA when two people were killed over one of the popular models. The CAZAL 607 is one of those precious models since it became a steady component of the American Hip-Hop scene in the 80s. One good example, the group Run-D.M.C. wore this model at numerous appearances and is pictured with them on various record covers. (Run-D.M.C., pictured at top of page)
Just as CAZAL was getting a burgeoning reputation in Europe as the brand of choice for the street-style lovers, the sound that would help define the 1980s was in its infancy in the US. At block parties across the East coast in the late 70s, the sound of hip hop was starting to be scratched out by legendary DJ’s like Kool Herc and Grandmaster Theodore. The braggadocious and contrary style of the lyrics of MC’s like LL Cool J and groups like Run-D.M.C. seemed to marry up perfectly with the designs of CAZAL.
Once Darryl McDaniels of Run-D.M.C was seen rocking a pair of 607s, their fans began to clamour for them, and sales soared all over America. It was during this period that many of the legendary CAZAL’s were born. Icons like the 858, as worn by MC Hammer and the 616 worn by Spike Lee (pictured above) now fetch almost $1000 a pair for a pristine condition vintage frame.
Since the 80s till today, CAZAL sunglasses are as loved and admired by hip hop artists around the world. The unique and unmistakable CAZAL glasses continues to write eyewear history like no other brand. A truly legendary brand, CAZAL’s designs from that era can still be seen trendsetting even now.
CAZAL; an epitome of the 80s fashion, the eyewear that defined the hip hop look of the 80s like no other creating a cult status among its fans. CAZAL till today is synonymous to luxury and hip-hop royalty.