Exploring Sunglasses Trends From Decades Past

People have worn sun-blocking eyewear for about 2,000 years, but it's safe to say that trends have evolved quite significantly since the technology's inception. Fashion pros say that frames for sunglasses have taken a drastic turn over the past half a century, with some of the quirkiest styles climbing to the peak of popularity. Let's take a look at some of the top trends and frames for sunglasses of decades past.

70s: 'Teashades'

The 70s were a decade of all types of experimentation, especially in the fashion department. The most popular frames for sunglasses resembled those of John Lennon -- tiny, round frames known as 'teashades.' The late 70s, however, was a different story: "Disco brought back big shades, but by this point, lighter-tinted lenses were more in style than the reserved anonymity of dark sunglasses. Masculine styles often featured double bridges over the nose (think "American Hustle") while the divas of disco tended to sport round or rounded-square plastic frames in sun-kissed gold or other light colors," writes Ariana DiValentino on Insider.

80s: Futuristic and Wayfarers

The 80s were an eclectic decade full of authentic style. Some popular tv shows and movies featured characters in futuristic-looking sunglasses with perfectly rectangular frames. Later on in the decade, wayfarers became popular thanks to the media as well. Wayfarers are known for their large frames and dark lenses. They're still popular now, and you can even purchase polarized wraparound sunglasses.

90s: Dark and Downsized

The 90s featured a variety of sunglasses styles as well, and while the frames were all different colors and shapes, the lenses had one thing in common: they were often dark and small. This was a popular style that was essentially a mixture of decades past: the reduced size of the Lennon-Esque lenses to the darkness of the futuristic shades is a recipe for 100% style. Life Magazine, in an article about growing popularity of sunglasses, estimated that only around 30% of those purchased were worn to protect the beautiful eyes. The rest, like today, were mainly considered a fashion accessory. Either way, it's fascinating to take a look at some of past decades' top styles. To grab a pair of stylish sunglasses for yourself, contact Reks Optics.