Like many other areas of fashion, eyewear trends and technology have changed drastically throughout the years. These days, they're more than just an accessory. With endless combinations of frame designs, materials, lenses and coatings, glasses can become an extension of ourselves. To highlight these changes, here's a blog outlining the history of eyewear and how it has changed.
The History of Eyewear
The earliest forms of glasses were created to correct farsightedness and presbyopia caused by ageing. These early glasses had lenses that aren't as refined as the ones we use today. They had a tendency to bend light which led to a blurry rainbow-like image appearing on the outer edge of the lens. This problem was eventually solved in 1730 by combining two pieces of glasses together in one lens. This was known as an achromatic lens.
As the demand for glasses increased, so too did the need to improve them. In 1784, Benjamin Franklin created Bifocal lenses. Bifocals were able to correct both myopia (short-sightedness) and presbyopia (long-sightedness) in one pair of glasses. Soon after this, British astronomer George Airy developed a lens that could correct astigmatism. The early stages of varifocal lenses were then developed in 1827 which continued the work of the Bifocal, making glasses even more accessible.
One of the most popular early styles of frames to be developed were metal frames known as 'Martin's Margins'. These frames featured arms that sat over the ears with added circles at either end of these arms to keep them in place. They were designed with dark rims that were supposed to protect the wearers from harsh light. Scissor glasses that were mounted on a stem, rather than arms, were also popular in the 1800s.
How Eyewear Has Changed
1900’s – 1920’s
In the early 20th century, French pince-nez and monocles were the most popular form of vision correction. The French pince-nez are unique as they are supported without arms and instead pinch the nose. The designs were quite impractical and uncomfortable, especially if worn for long durations.
1920’s – 1930’s
This decade had a focus on comfort and brought about frames with arms that would sit on top of the ears. With this came the invention of plastic lenses which allowed for lighter smaller frames that were worn closer to the face.
1940’s – 1950’s
The 1940s brought glasses to be more than just a medical necessity. They could now be a fashion statement. What better design to bring glasses into the new world of fashion than the ever-popular cat-eye frames. This bold design has been synonymous with glamour and high-end fashion ever since its inception. Brands such as Prada and Versace maintain a particular fondness for this style.
1960’2 – 1970’s
The swinging sixties was the decade that really brought eyewear into the fashion limelight. With icons like John Lennon leading the way, glasses were becoming a fashion accessory that couldn't be ignored. The late sixties saw a shift to oversized geometric or round frames that carried on into the 70s and had an influenced that can still be seen in frames today. These design choices are most noticeable in sunglasses, as can be seen in these stylish RB 3447 Round Ray-Ban Sunglasses.
1980’s – 1990’s
The theme of oversized glasses remained throughout the 80s but got a new lease of life with more unique shapes and bolder colours. The 70s and 80s also saw the rise of aviator frames into everyday fashion, helped by celebs and icons such as Michael Jackson and Freddie Mercury. Ray-Ban is often labelled as the pioneer of aviator frames and continue to lead the way, creating new stylish takes on a classic design.
2000’s
These days, there isn't one single trend that can be seen more than any other. Glasses have now become an integral part of our outfits, buying multiple pairs to suit the weather, the occasion or simply how we feel. From classic favourites such as Ray-Ban and Oakley to exciting newcomers like Radley and David Beckham, eyewear has fast become a must-have accessory.
Here at Spex4less, we offer a wide range of glasses and sunglasses, with stylish aviators, eye-catching cat-eye frames and everything in between, we have something for everyone.