Behind the Name: The Amelia
Randolph Amelia in Tan Gradient Lite Lens
One of our newest women’s styles, the Randolph Amelia takes its name from the iconic American aviation pioneer, Amelia Earhart. Earhart was the first female pilot to make a solo flight across the Atlantic, doing so in 1932. Though this was her crowning achievement, Earhart made many other notable flights in her lifetime that are considered landmarks of aviation.
In 1923, Earhart became just the 16th woman to earn her pilot’s license. She was offered the opportunity in 1928 to become the first woman to fly across the Atlantic, making the flight as a passenger with pilots Wilmer Stultz and Louis Gordon. She would spend the next several years making long solo flights across North America and competing in air races.
Earhart, being a true pioneer, not only accomplished many “Firsts” as a woman, she also accomplished many firsts as a pilot. Earhart was the first person to fly over both the Atlantic and Pacific. She was the first person to fly solo from Hawaii to California. She would later make the first solo flights from Los Angeles to Mexico City, and Mexico City to New York.
Earhart, who collected nicknames including “Lady Lindy” and the “Queen of the Air”, became a celebrity symbol for aviation. Earhart endorsed products including cigarettes and women’s clothing, but ultimately was a spokesperson for the burgeoning commercial airline industry, representing Transcontinental Air Transport and National Airways. She encouraged the use of commercial airlines, while at the same time encouraging women pilots.
The Randolph Amelia takes its name from the famous female aviator. The Amelia style is rooted in the classic teardrop aviator shape, with a curved and lightweight feel that is perfect for the modern woman, whether you’re flying through the air or flying through life. Randolph takes pride in its military and aviation heritage, and values any pioneer of the skies, with Earhart being one of the finest of the 20th Century.