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The history and fashion of sunglasses
Sunglasses are an essential accessory today, but their history is far more recent than many people realise. While some manufacturers attempt to trace sunglasses back to ancient times, their development as we know them today is relatively modern. Let's explore how sunglasses evolved from simple protective eyewear to a global fashion statement.
The origins of sunglasses: Myth vs. reality
One of the earliest references to eyewear for sun protection comes from Roman times. According to Pliny the Elder (AD 79), Emperor Nero supposedly watched gladiator matches through an emerald. Some speculate that this was used as a sun shield, but there is no evidence that it was framed or worn like modern sunglasses.
Moving forward to 1459, Nuno Fernandes, a Portuguese scientist, requested spectacles for horseback riding in the snow. Some historians believe these could have had tinted lenses, but the historical record does not confirm this.
By the late 18th century, Venice introduced Gondola glasses, which had green-tinted lenses and silk shades to reduce glare. Though these were not sunglasses in the modern sense, they played a role in their evolution
19th-Century innovations: Military and leisure use
During the American Civil War (1861–1865), soldiers reportedly wore "shell spectacles" to protect against the sun. In the period following, spectacles with tinted lenses were promoted as ‘scenery glasses’ for viewing mountain landscapes. By the late 19th century, protective eyewear for outdoor use became more common.
1885: British soldiers in Egypt were given blue-tinted goggles to reduce sun glare.
1891: A baseball report in The Chicago Herald mentioned a player misjudging a ball due to losing his "sunglasses."
1895: Advertisements in American newspapers began listing "sun glasses" as distinct items for sale.
These developments marked the transition from sun-protective spectacles to eyewear specifically designed for sunlight exposure.
The birth of modern sunglasses (20th century)
The early 20th century saw significant growth in the popularity of sunglasses. Several key events contributed to their rise:
- 1914: The Pawtucket Times advertised "sun glasses" in different shades, one of the first recorded ads featuring an image.
- 1916: American Optical Company promoted sunglasses in their in-house magazine, establishing them as a distinct product category.
- 1920s: Anti-glare goggles designed for aviators and mountaineers influenced early sunglasses.
- 1930s: Hollywood celebrities helped popularise sunglasses, making them fashionable beyond their functional purpose.
Companies like Bausch & Lomb (Ray-Ban) and Ratti (Persol) focused on technical advancements, offering lenses with UV protection and better clarity.
The rise of sunglasses as a fashion icon
By the mid-20th century, sunglasses became a global fashion accessory:
- 1950s: Hollywood icons like Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly made oversized sunglasses a trend.
- 1960s-70s: Designer brands such as Christian Dior entered the market, while sporty sunglasses from brands like Carrera gained popularity.
- 1980s: The rise of celebrity culture and music videos boosted demand for stylish sunglasses.
- 1990s: Luxury brands and rebellious styles, such as Oakley, dominated the market.
The sunglasses industry also saw the emergence of counterfeit products, proving their status as a high-demand commodity.
Sunglasses in the 21st century: What’s next?
Sunglasses have continued to evolve, driven by advancements in lens technology, sustainable materials, and fashion trends. Some key developments include:
- Photochromic lenses that adjust to light conditions.
- Interchangeable lenses for different activities.
- High-tech smart glasses with augmented reality (AR) features.
- Sustainable sunglasses made from recycled materials.
Despite changes in design and function, sunglasses remain a must-have accessory. Whether for style, sports, or protection, they continue to shape global fashion trends.