Forget Policy. Macron’s Sunglasses Went Viral at Davos

What started as a minor wardrobe choice quickly became one of the most talked-about moments of the World Economic Forum in Davos.

When French President Emmanuel Macron appeared on stage wearing reflective aviator sunglasses, social media and political observers rushed to interpret the move.

Some saw it as a subtle show of defiance toward U.S. President Donald Trump, especially amid tensions over Greenland, trade, and NATO unity. Others compared Macron to a “Top Gun” fighter pilot or framed the look as Europe projecting strength at a time when many leaders appeared cautious.

Memes spread rapidly, fueled by generative AI, placing Macron in action-movie scenes or casting him as “Le Maverick.” Headlines questioned whether a pair of sunglasses could signal a political shift, or even “save the West.”

The visual moment was amplified by the Davos stage itself, with the blue-tinted lenses perfectly matching the cobalt backdrop.

French officials later clarified that the sunglasses were worn for a far more mundane reason: Macron was covering a burst blood vessel in his eye. Still, the explanation did little to slow the cultural impact.

The small French brand behind the sunglasses saw its website crash under heavy traffic, and demand for the model surged.