Gone are the days of large, metal-rimmed circle glasses mens and eyeglasses. Over the years, glasses have evolved from practical vision enhancement tools to fashion statements. Glasses are replaced every decade to keep up with changing fashion trends. Here’s how glasses have evolved over the years:
1900-1920s.
This period is marked by the Lougnet and needle-glasses. Rognite glasses, worn by both men and women, are not worn on the wearer’s face, but are held up to the face with a handle. These products are praised by women because they don’t completely cover the face, and they are used more as an accessory than a practical, sight-enhancing tool.
Ince nez glasses, as the name suggests, hold the glasses in place by pinching the wearer’s nose. These glasses don’t have headphones or handles to protect them, but are usually attached to a chain around the neck.
Since it was not fashionable to wear glasses all the time during this period, these glasses were very popular in the early 20th century because they allowed you to wear them only when you needed them.
1920s – 1930s.
With increased functionality and bold designs, round-rimmed glasses became popular in the 1920s. These glasses are heavy and close to the face, but they can be found in a variety of new materials, including gold and turtle shells. These frames can be wire rimmed, but are primarily made of cellulosic silk. The popularity of these round glasses stems from the emerging feminist movement, as these glasses are the same for both men and women.
In the 1930s, aviator sunglasses were invented to help pilots and members of the US Air Force protect their eyes while flying at high altitudes. Although the polarizing glasses were originally invented to meet the needs of pilots, they were finally sold publicly in 1937.
The 1940s and 1950s.
This period gave way to the rise of the Browline Frame. Introduced in the late ’40s, this frame combines plastic and metal to give the wearer what looks like fake eyebrows. As people look to have a more stylish look in clothing, cars and accessories, there is an increasing demand for a wide range of stylish eyewear styles. These brown frames were offered in several different colors and plastic materials, and they were so popular that they accounted for 50% of all eyeglass frame sales in the 1950s.
Cat-eye shaped glasses also made waves in the 1950s. Worn by the adored Marilyn Monroe, these iconic glasses feature an upscan pattern at the top of the frame and are available in a variety of styles. These charming glasses can even be set with rhinestones and gemstones.
The 1960s and 1970s.
During this period, glasses were defined by two diametrically opposed styles: Mods and Flower boys. Mods embrace oversized, unique frame geometry. Sometimes completely impractical for correcting vision, these over-the-top glasses represent a passion for futuristic ideals.
Celebrities such as John Lennon and Janis Joplin became popular, and flower girls wore round rimmed glasses with rainbow-colored lenses called tea towels. These glasses represent the peace and love that these wearers cherish.
The 1980s and 1990s.
In the 1980s and 1990s, as eyewear shifted from colorful and dramatic spectacles to lightweight and practical for everyday use, luxury was traded for quality. In the 1980s, goggles and safety goggles became the most popular design for eyewear. These styles blend futuristic elements with minimalist design and have been made famous by celebrities such as Tom Cruise.
As people embraced retro music, entertainment, and fashion, round frames, cat-eye shapes, and other 1950s eyewear made a slight comeback in the 1990s. During this decade, minimalism and garbage were in favor.
2000s – Contemporary.
During this time, there was no clear definition of style, as people began to use glasses to express their personal style. These decades brought an increase in simple rectangular frames and oversized square frames and other designs. People who wear glasses are blending classic and modern to get a look that complements their own personal style.
