Accessories; Sunglasses

Lucy Woodley
Jul 7, 2020
3 min read

Being a key accessory within everyday styles today, the evolution of sunglasses which are both practical yet fashionable has shown significant development over the decades. Having said this, recent seasons have seen the comeback of earlier, more vintage styles.

This post will explore the influences that have led to the development of styles, fit and practicality of sunglasses, and how various advancements are recognised and inspired by today.

origins

As pictured left, it comes as no surprise that sunglasses were first developed, using ivory, for practical use, whereby the coining of the term originates from Inuit people, Ancient Rome and China.

In 1752, the opportunity for the item to become fashionable was still unrecognised, however optician James Ayscough first introduced the addition of coloured lenses, with the intention to correct vision impairments rather than acting as UV protection from the sun.

The transition towards sunglasses being used as fashionable pieces became apparent in the early 20th century, whereby their widespread use was popular mostly among movie stars of the time.

Moreover, they were commonly known as sun cheaters (cheaters being an American slang term for glasses).

Sunglasses of this early 1900s period were typical of round glass lenses and flimsy frames, as pictured right.

20th Century developments - 1920s-40s - Aviator

The introduction of mass-produced sunglasses took place in 1929 through American sunglasses brand founder Sam Foster with the aim of eye protection.

As a result of the popularity which arose around sunglasses, Ray Ban was formed during World War II, whereby their infamous Aviator style sunglasses became hugely popular.

Tom Cruise in Top Gun, 1986

This is still recognised today as one of the most classic sunglasses styles, whereby the likes of designer brands (such as Celine below) have adapted this particular shape.

Celine, Fall 2019

20th Century developments - 1950s/60s - Cat Eye

The 50s and 60s saw the use of sunglasses beginning to integrate more fashionable elements, with promotion of the use of sunglasses as a fashion accessory through the decade's style icons Marilyn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn. In particular, the popularity of the renowned cat-eye shape grew and grew during this time.

Ray Ban diversified its products and target consumer, with a subtle movement away from the traditional Aviator shape to more feminine, stylish products. This contributed to their recognition today as designing sunglasses appropriate for every occasion.

The 1950s advertisement (pictured right) demonstrates the practical elements which were still of concern for the consumers of this decade, whereby the three criteria for a pair of sunglasses were identified as 'practical, smart and universal comfort'.

20th Century developments - 1970s/80s - Oversized frames & Coloured Lenses

Undoubtedly the final three decades of the 20th Century were the most eccentric regarding experimentation with styles.

Coloured lenses and oversized frames were inspiration for designers in the 70s and 80s.

Again, these styles were promoted by style icons of the era and a mass influx of celebrities (for example, Sophia Loren, above left).

Today, this oversized style is still of high popularity, whereby the everyday consumer has access to a variety of wearable oversized styles.

Luxury designers however, such as Gucci and Balenciaga, have adapted these iconic looks and added extremities in an attempt to innovate.

Left: Gucci SS19

Below: Loewe SS19

20th Century developments - 1990s - Minimalism

The style of the 1990s is one which very much resonates today. The return of minimalistic shapes and more chic styles, including thinner frames and more wearable colours, is extremely prominent in trends today, particularly the SS20 season.

Whilst still injecting elements of colour, the anticipated return of 90s styles has been widely acknowledged and adopted industry-wide by designers, celebrities, influencers and trend-setters.