Sunglasses are more than just a fashion accessory: they have endured through the ages, constantly reinventing themselves, both to protect the eyes and to make a style statement. From antiquity to the present day, their history is fascinating.
The earliest traces: Antiquity and the peoples of the North
The very first “version” of sunglasses dates back to antiquity. The Inuit, for example, used pieces of ivory, bone or caribou antler carved with fine slits to protect their eyes from the glare caused by the sun's reflection off the snow. These rudimentary devices did not correct vision, but filtered light effectively.
In 12th-century China, judges used smoked quartz lenses to conceal their facial expressions during trials. This was not yet UV protection, but the idea of obscuring the wearer's vision was already part of the practice.
The 19th century: medical uses
In the 19th century, tinted spectacles were mainly used to treat certain eye conditions. Green or blue lenses were prescribed for syphilis sufferers, a disease that made the eyes particularly sensitive to light. These glasses were therefore primarily therapeutic.
The 1920s-1930s boom: fashion and aviation
It was at the beginning of the 20th century that sunglasses began to be democratized. In the 1920s, they became popular with Hollywood celebrities, who wore them to protect themselves from powerful movie projectors and...paparazzi.
In the 1930s, technological advances transformed their use. American fighter pilots, in particular, needed goggles capable of protecting their eyes at high altitudes. It was against this backdrop that Ray-Ban created the famous Aviator in 1936, initially designed for US Air Force pilots.
Post-war: an explosion of styles
After the Second World War, sunglasses became a symbol of style and freedom. Brands such as Ray-Ban and Vuarnet made their mark, and created many different models. The 1950s to 1970s saw the emergence of iconic styles worn by stars such as Audrey Hepburn, James Dean, Jackie Kennedy and Steve McQueen.
It was also during this period that UV protection became a priority in the manufacturing of sunglasses.
Today: technology, performance and personal expression
Today, sunglasses combine technological innovation, performance and aesthetics. Polarized, photochromic and mirrored lenses, ultra-light and resistant materials - everything is designed to offer optimum visual comfort while meeting specific needs: driving, sports, hiking, or simply everyday protection.
Style-wise, the shapes, colours and materials are almost infinite. Wearing sunglasses has become a way of reflecting your personality, while protecting your eyes from UV and blue light.
From the bone masks of the Inuit to today's designer frames, sunglasses have come a long way. They've gone from utilitarian objects to fashion icons, without ever losing sight of their primary purpose: to protect the eyes. So, the next time you slip on your sunglasses, think of the incredible history you're perpetuating...with style.
