The Evolution Journey Of Women's Eyewear: A Journey Through Fashion History

Women’s eyewear has been the trend since the late 1960s. Starting from functional designs to fashionable styles, the evolution pattern has drastically changed.

Here are some of the interesting briefs about the evolution of women’s eyewear:

Early Designs:

Tracing back to the early 19th century, the idea of eyewear was limited to a fashion accessory rather than a functional object supporting human existence. The frames were limited to simple round and oval-shaped lenses bound together by a wire frame.

Art Nouveau:

For those who may not know the Art Nouveau moment during the late 1800s. It is the international style of modern art applied to interior design, graphic arts, furniture, glass art, textiles, ceramics, jewellery, and metalwork.

It was during this time that the eyeglasses were framed into more intricate shapes and designs. The frames were crafted into precious metals and decorated with enamel, pearls, or other trendy elements.

The Golden Age of Hollywood:

A little ahead of the mid-1900s, which was the era of Hollywood, women’s glasses and sunglasses got the desired recognition. It became more glamorous and catchier. It was then the fashion of oversized frames and cat eye shapes became popular. It is difficult to trace how they got the desired attention, but they can certainly be popularised by actresses Audrey Hepburn and Marilyn Monroe.

The era of recognition, the 1960s and 1970s: During this time women’s eyewear was no longer treated as a stigma to society. Shapes got bolder, and the colours grew brighter. Round frames and oversized lenses were in tune along with unusual frames catching up with the pace. These experimental designs were powered by the counterculture movements of the time, with the slow rise of pop art.

Modern Designs:

Present day, women’s glasses are a symbol of confidence and beauty. They are no longer limited to any of the so-called descriptions of glasses. They are available in multiple styles and designs, starting from classic and elegant to trendy and avant-garde.

The rise of technology has permitted the use of new frame materials and shapes, such plant-based acetates and lightweight titanium frames with laser-cut designs. Glasses frames have become eco-friendly and easy to handle.

The Iconic History of Trending Frames

1. The Story Behind Tortoiseshell Frames:

Tortoiseshell frames can be traced back to the 18th century. The Shell of Hawksbill turtles was the source of those early frames. They were beautiful in their distinctive amber colour mottling and dark brown pattern.

They were cherished by the wealthy and aristocratic class of people as the shells were expensive and difficult to obtain. The frames were highly decorative, featuring intricate carvings and embellishments that reflected the opulence and excess of the era.

The patterns are still in demand and hence the manufacturers are now seeing their way through synthetic materials. However, the pattern of these frames can still be traced to the classic tortoiseshell frames.

Today, these frames are available in a variety of shapes and styles, from classic round frames to modern, angular designs. Tortoiseshell frames are often considered a timeless and versatile accessory that can add a touch of sophistication and elegance to any outfit.

2. History of Oversized Frames

During the 1950s round frames became popular among women but with them being a functional item rather than an accessory. However, with time the oversized frames became a statement for women who wore them and were able to flaunt them with their outfits.

For example, in the 1970s, influenced by the rise of pop music and fashion of the era, oversized frames were paired with bold colours like red, blue, or purple. In the 1980’s they were organised into more frames of different shapes and sizes like thick rims, and square frames with a large circumference.

It was in the 1990s when the trend was bothered a bit by wire frame but oversized glasses made a huge comeback in the 2000s as a retro-inspired fashion statement.

Modern-day frames are available in a variety of shapes, from round and oval to square and rectangular, and can be made of various materials, including acetate, metal, and plastic. While oversized frame glasses or sunglasses were once considered a bold and daring fashion statement, they have now become a timeless and classic accessory that can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any outfit.

3. Chronical of Cat-Eye Frames

Cat-eye frames trace back to the early 20th century when women’s glasses and sunglasses took a modernised turn in the world of fashion. These frames with an upward sweep at the outer edges, were a true statement wear for women leading the trend.

The Art Deco movement enhanced the pattern and made it bold, geometrics and ornate. The chic sweep was considered playful and sophisticated and was paired with bright lipsticks and hairstyles to complete the look. Modern fashion shaped it further into sleek frames, clean lines and graphic patterns which made them look minimalist and hence, were rewarded by popularity.

Today they are available in a wide range of styles and colours, from classic black frames to bright, bold patterns. While they were once considered a daring and unconventional choice, cat-eye frames are now seen as a timeless and versatile accessory that can add a touch of retro-inspired style to any outfit.

4. History of Clear Frame Glasses and Sunglasses

First made in the 1930s, these frames were clear or translucent. They were made of plastic materials such as celluloid, lucite or bakelite and were quite simple with a basic touch of decorative elements on them.

In the 1950s they got popular and were a part of trendy accessories and were considered futuristic and modern. However, they soon fell out of fashion because of the social stigma of being overly plain. They came back in the game in the 2000s as a minimalist and understated to bold and flashy frames.

Today, transparent frames are a popular choice for both prescription and non-prescription eyewear. The use of modern materials such as polycarbonate and TR90 has made them lightweight, durable, and comfortable to wear. They are a popular choice for those seeking a chic and understated look.

The history of women’s eyewear is indeed intriguing and eye-opening. Simple vision correction eyeglasses became everyone’s favourite and a must-have fashion accessory. In this present scenario, these fashion accessories will make great gifts for women who are quite inclined toward retro styles. So, get your hands on Specscart’s finely crafted eyewear.