Eras of Evolution: Sunglasses Through the Decades
Sunglasses are essential eyewear which protect our eyes from harmful UV rays. But beyond their functional role, sunglasses have also become a cornerstone of fashion, reflecting shifting trends and cultural moments across the decades.
From Snow to Studios
Sunglasses have a long history, with their earliest versions stretching back thousands of years. The Inuit crafted “snow goggles” from materials like ivory, bone and antler, carving narrow slits to shield their eyes from the blinding glare of sunlight on snow. By the 12th century, tinted eyewear appeared in China, where flat smoky quartz lenses were worn by judges during court proceedings. However, this early eyewear was meant more for concealing expressions during questioning than sun protection, underscoring how tinted lenses served cultural and symbolic roles as much as practical ones.
Centuries later, English optician James Ayscough experimented with blue and green lenses, believing they could correct vision impairments. It wasn’t until the 20th century that tinted lenses like his started being used specifically to combat glare, first for syphilis patients struggling with light sensitivity, then becoming popular among beachgoers and Hollywood stars hoping for relief from harsh studio lights and the public gaze.
Through the Eras with Optical Superstore
1920s – 1940s
Sunglasses began their rise to fame in the 1920s, gaining an air of exclusivity and mystery as film stars adopted oversized frames to shield both their identities and eyes from studios’ bright klieg lamps. Soon after, Sam Foster introduced affordable mass-produced sunglasses, using cellulose to make stylish frames accessible to the public. The 1930s saw the invention of aviator sunglasses for U.S. pilots, a style which would become iconic during WWII, worn by military figures and adopted as fashionable a staple by returning soldiers.
American pilots and movie stars made this functional design an enduring icon of style. Salute the legacy of aviators with Deagon, a suave metal frame with a double bridge and that classic teardrop shape.
Round, colourful frames were the talk of the 1940s. Step back in time with the LP19AS1, a plastic design with a keyhole nose bridge and hint of retro charm.
1950s & 60s
By the mid-20th century, sunglasses had become synonymous with glamour thanks to Hollywood stars like Marilyn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn who popularised seductive cat-eye frames as well as the timelessly chic oversized shades featured in Breakfast at Tiffany’s. The cultural revolution of the 1960s pushed boundaries further, with bold colours and eccentric shapes making sunglasses a powerful symbol of individuality and attitude.
Channel the glamorous 1950s through a modern lens with this April 24A5PS. Its cat eye shape evokes the stars of the past, paired with an energetic brown tort.
A design in the spirit of Bob Dylan’s iconic Wayfarers, Ashley & Zac’s 20AZU1PS is a reliable acetate sunglasses frame with a rectangular rim and minimalist elegance.
1970s – 1990s
Celebrities continued to dictate the trends of the time in the 1970s and 80s as sunglasses became inseparable from identity. John Lennon’s lightly tinted round frames embodied peace and love, while Elton John’s flamboyant specs blended fashion with performance. Meanwhile, aviators returned as part of Elvis’ signature style and were further cemented by Tom Cruise’s Top Gun. Oversized and audacious styles dominated the 1980s thanks to popstars like Madonna and Prince before a reversal in the 90s saw celebrities don minimalist micro frame designs.
Embrace your inner popstar with Radley’s magnificently oversized 6512. With a large, oval shape, deep temples and sophisticated gold highlights, sun safety has never been so unapologetically stylish.
Sleek and cool like the celebs who wore them, Goose remembers the nonchalant aura of the 90s with its silver metal and rectangular rim.
2000s – Present
Today, we are lucky to have a long history of sunglasses styles to draw inspiration from, with designs catered to any aesthetic. Take your pick of vintage or futuristic, sporty or designer to suit your needs and lifestyle. And with advances in UV protection technology, this essential accessory can provide cutting-edge sun safety within your choice of fabulous frame.
Introduce giant bug-eye designs of the early 2000s to a new generation with this children’s Ugly Fish 533, featuring a robust round rim in smooth black plastic.
Past meets present with this Radley 6503. Crafted from green plastic and featuring hints of gold, its large, uniquely shaped rim is a culmination of retro trends combined with contemporary allure.
Many Styles, One Optical Superstore
From Inuit snow goggles to Hollywood icons and modern technologies, sunglasses have constantly evolved to shape and reflect an era. With Optical Superstore’s extensive range of frames spanning timeless classics to bold contemporary designs, you’ll find eyewear that not only protects your eyes but also expresses your unique individual style. Visit us in-store at your nearest location today, or browse our online catalogue here to relive designs of the past or try something entirely new!
