Curiosity about when were sunglasses invented leads us back to a time well before the sleek designs we’re familiar with today. Sunglasses in various forms have been around for centuries, used by cultures worldwide to provide protection from the sun. The concept evolved significantly in the 20th century, with aviator sunglasses as we know them coming onto the scene.
The aviator style sunglasses have become a hallmark of fashion, their origin intertwined with the progress of aviation. Their large, reflective lenses and thin metal frames—often with a distinctive double or triple bridge design—are instantly recognizable and have become endemic in the eyewear industry. Deeply rooted in their military beginnings, the original aviator sunglasses have transcended their utilitarian origins to become a universal symbol in fashion. Their significance extends beyond mere function. The aviator style sunglasses resonate as a representation of audacity, an emblem of the daring aviators of yesteryear, and an acknowledgment of those who pioneered the skies.
The Genesis of Aviator Style
The Early Days of Aviation
Aviation’s infancy necessitated the development of equipment to protect the eyes of those challenging the heights of the sky. When one considers when were sunglasses invented, it is crucial to note that the specific aviator style sunglasses are a relatively modern innovation. They were designed with the express purpose of shielding pilots’ eyes from the harsh conditions encountered at high altitudes.
The Birth of Aviator Sunglasses
The collaboration between pilots and eyewear manufacturers led to the creation of the original aviator sunglasses. Developed as an answer to the inadequacy of goggles, Bausch & Lomb brought to market the first prototype in 1936, responding to the demand from pilots for better eye protection. The following year saw the evolution of these prototypes into the iconic metal-framed “”Ray-Ban Aviator,”” marking the commercial debut of the original aviator sunglasses.
The ensuing progression branched out extensively from these humble beginnings, where a timeline can capture the significant milestones:
- 1936 – The Anti-Glare prototype created by Bausch & Lomb.
- 1937 – Release of the commercial model branded as “”Ray-Ban Aviator.””
- 1938 – The U.S. military adopts aviator sunglasses for pilots.
- 1940s – The aviator style sunglasses gain popularity during WWII.
The Evolution Through the Decades
Aviators in the Military
Through WWII, military aviator sunglasses proved indispensable to pilots across various branches of the armed forces. In the midst of chaos, these sunglasses provided much-needed glare protection, enhancing the effectiveness and safety of wartime aviation. This bond with military history not only ratified their utility but also instilled a rugged, heroic aura around those who wore them.
The Commercial Boom
Expanding beyond their specialized beginnings, these once-exclusive military aviator sunglasses found a new audience after the war. Returning servicemen inadvertently became trendsetters, as their war-acquired style caught the public’s eye, prompting a swift crossover into everyday wear. To understand how firmly planted aviator sunglasses are in the consumer landscape, consider the following:
- Hollywood and Celebrities: As iconic figures in entertainment adopted aviator style sunglasses, their status as fashion must-haves was cemented.
- Utility Meets Style: The original aviator sunglasses blended robust functionality with emerging fashion trends of the era, broadening their appeal beyond the cockpit.
Technological Advancements in Aviator Sunglasses
Innovations in Lens Technology
As the years progressed, aviator sunglasses have seen significant advancements in lens technology. The pioneers in protective eyewear who wondered when were sunglasses invented could not have foreseen the introduction of polarized and photochromic lenses. Polarized lenses, which reduce glare from reflective surfaces like water or paved roads, have become a boon for both pilots and the fashion-forward. Photochromic lenses, reacting to the light conditions, darken in bright sunlight and become clear indoors, providing constant comfort and protection.
Frame Material Evolution
The original aviator sunglasses, designed for peak functionality, traditionally featured metal frames known for their strength and endurance. As aviator style sunglasses evolved, so did the materials used for their frames. Manufacturers began experimenting with everything from lightweight alloys to high-tech plastics, seeking the perfect balance between durability and comfort.
The Aviators Today
The Modern Interpretation
Today, aviator sunglasses are undergoing a renaissance, adapting and morphing to fit the fashion sensibilities of the current era. They preserve their iconic silhouette yet experiment with different sizes, colors, and embellishments. Some versions have seen the incorporation of mirrored lenses, while others have played with the shape, creating variants like the square or teardrop lens shape, progressively distancing themselves from the military aviator sunglasses design of the 1930s.
Aviators in Popular Culture
The influence of aviator sunglasses in popular culture is as strong today as it was when movie stars first put them on the map. Celebrities continue to wear them, securing their place as a symbol of the cool and collected. Furthermore, aviator sunglasses frequently grace the silver screen, becoming an integral part of a character’s persona and adding an extra layer to storytelling.
Conclusion
Aviator sunglasses have undeniably traveled an extraordinary journey from their humble beginnings as military aviator sunglasses to a position of global veneration. These accessories have evolved beyond their original protective purpose to embody a powerful fashion statement recognized around the world. Their rich history, which started around the time when were sunglasses invented to serve a practical use, is now inseparably interwoven with style and personality. As they continue to adapt to new trends and technologies, aviator sunglasses promise to remain a fixture in our collective imagination and everyday life.
FAQ
- When were aviator sunglasses first introduced to the public?Aviator sunglasses were introduced to the public in 1937, following their creation and initial design in 1936 for pilots.
- What distinguishes aviator style sunglasses from other types?Aviator style sunglasses are characterized by their thin metal frames, large teardrop-shaped lenses, and double or triple bridge design.
- Are the original aviator sunglasses still available for purchase today?Yes, one can still buy sunglasses that are styled like the original aviator sunglasses, with modern variations and advancements.
- How have aviator sunglasses changed since they were first made?Aviator sunglasses have experienced changes in lens technology, frame materials, and design, adapting to contemporary fashion trends while maintaining their classic appeal.
- Did military personnel play a role in popularizing aviator sunglasses?Absolutely, military pilots played a crucial role in popularizing aviators, initially during World War II, due to their functionality and the sense of heroic style they conveyed.
