The History of Sunglasses: From Practicality to Fashion Staple
Sunglasses have come a long way since their inception. Initially created to protect the eyes from harmful UV rays and glare, they have now become a fashion statement and a must-have accessory for many. In this blog, we'll take a trip down memory lane and explore the evolution of sunglasses over the years.
Early Sunglasses
The first sunglasses were created in China during the 12th century. These sunglasses were made from flat panels of smoky quartz and were designed to protect the eyes from glare. They were not intended for use as a fashion accessory, but rather as a practical solution to a problem.
In the 18th century, James Ayscough developed blue and green-tinted lenses to help with vision impairments. While these lenses were not intended for use as sunglasses, they did pave the way for tinted lenses to become popular.
Early 20th Century
It wasn't until the early 20th century that sunglasses became a fashion statement. In 1929, Sam Foster began selling sunglasses on the Atlantic City Boardwalk in New Jersey. He sold his sunglasses under the name Foster Grant and they quickly became popular.
During the 1930s, sunglasses were still mostly worn by pilots and military personnel. However, they started to become more popular among the general public as Hollywood stars began wearing them as a fashion accessory. It was during this time that aviator sunglasses became popular, thanks to their association with pilots.
1950s to 1980s
Sunglasses continued to evolve during the 1950s, 60s, 70s, and 80s. In the 1950s, the Wayfarer sunglasses were introduced by Ray-Ban, and they quickly became a popular fashion accessory. In the 1960s, oversized sunglasses became popular, thanks in part to the influence of Jackie Kennedy.
In the 1970s and 80s, mirrored lenses and wraparound sunglasses became popular. These sunglasses were worn by athletes and were designed to provide maximum protection from the sun's glare.
Modern Day Sunglasses
Today, sunglasses continue to be a popular fashion accessory. They are available in a wide variety of styles, shapes, and colors. Some of the most popular styles include aviators, wayfarers, cat-eye sunglasses, and round sunglasses.
Sunglasses are now made from a variety of materials, including plastic, metal, and wood. They are also available with polarized lenses, which help to reduce glare and provide clearer vision.
In Conclusion
From their humble beginnings as a practical solution to a problem, sunglasses have evolved into a fashion staple. The evolution of sunglasses over the years has been influenced by various factors, including technological advancements, fashion trends, and celebrity endorsements. Regardless of their origins, sunglasses remain an important accessory, providing both style and protection for our eyes.
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