Sunglasses or Shades – History, Popularity in USA, Types and Points to Buy Sunglasses

Sunglasses or shades as they areknown in the USA, are a fashion accessory.Sunglasses are also used topreventeye damage from bright sunlight or high-energy visible light. Sunglasses also help protect the eyes from UV rays and blue light. Sunglasses feature lenses that are either colored, polarized or darkened. Sunglasses are mandatory after undergoing eye surgery. Some sunglasses are associated with Hollywood& other celebrities in the USA, or other professions like flying.

History of Sunglasses/Shades

The sunglasses or shades as they are called in the USA have metallic frame & some have plastic frame. Sunglasses werefirst mass-produced using celluloid in 1929 by Sam Foster and were instant hit with women in the USA.By mid 1930s millions of people were wearing shades even if they didn’t need eye protection. Polarized sunglasses were developed in 1936by Edwin H. Land who experimented by making lenses using his patented Polaroid filter. Since 1940s sunglasses have grownpopular with beachgoers also.

Types of Sunglasses/Shades

Aviator sunglasses are mostly associated with aircraft flyers. Oversized sunglasses are mostly used by women as a fashion statement. Shutter shades are used for protection from UV rays. Round Teashades or John Lennon shades have dark color glasses that were famous (and still are) for hidingthe marijuana/drug fuelled eyes.Wayfarer shades are associated with many prominent celebrities, notably Elvis Presley & Beatles. Mirrored wrap-around sunglasses are mostly used by sportspersons who are involved in golf, cricket, beach volleyball. Clip-on sunglasses help protect from sunlight. Gradient/Murphy shades are dark at top, light in middle and dark at bottom. Flip-upshadesprovide benefits of sunglass to corrective eyeglasses.

Points to BuySunglass/Shades 

While buying sunglasses, avoid those that say "absorbs UV," better go for shades that say 99-100% UV absorption or UV 400. While polarized lenses cut glare they dontprovide sun protection.As UV protectantsare clear in color; not just dark lens but green, yellow, greylens sunglasses offer UV protection. Opt for sunglasses with optically ground lens for less distortion. Large frame sunglasses protect more from UV rays than smallerones.

While sunglasses are mostly same, each year newer varieties are being launched. What makes sunglasses different, are innovations in design, color and size; such as frames made from single metal piece. Sunglasses are a style statement, and are loved by people of all ages irrespective of gender.