Sunglasses In The Fashion Industry

Sunglasses are ideal for both fashion and protection, as you frequently see people wearing them. Since they complement your whole appearance and shield your eyes from damaging UV rays, sunglasses are a mainstay in most cultures and the fashion business. The fascinating history of sunglasses has influenced the current state of the fashion industry. One of the most significant fashion accessories since its invention 2,000 years ago are sunglasses.

The History behind sunglasses

The history of sunglasses originated with the Inuit tribes, the original inhabitants of arctic North America. Since the Inuits lived in the arctic and at times were fishermen or hunters, they were generally prone to sun blindness - photokeratitis, from harmful UV rays that reflect off snow and ice, blinding eyes. Since sun blindness was common, the Inuit community discovered the idea of eye-protection. They made these walrus bones and driftwood that were slit with openings on the inside, something that is known as "ilgaak" or "iggaak" to the Inuit people. In the later part of the 12th century, the Chinese developed the eyewear further by creating these sunglasses from see through smoky quartz sheets for eye protection. They also frequently bought them for Judges in particular with the purpose of keeping their faces masked during trial.

The first official sun glasses were then discovered in 1752 by English optician James Ayscough. Ayscough designed these sun glasses not for fashion purposes but as a therapy with blue or green colored lenses which were thought to repel eye discomfort to light-sensitive people. In later developments discoveries like these were a big help in the making of protective eye wear, especially with polarized sunnies.

Sunglasses did become a success in the early 1900s in Hollywood and it is then that sunglasses became referred to as a fashion icon and as something suitable for  every occasion.

Sunglasses trends over the years

1970s to today

Although sunglasses gained their recognition in the 1900s they really only reached popularity in the 1920s. Starting when a man named Sam Foster introduced affordable eyewear to America, he intended these to be used by beach bums to protect their eyes from sun damage. Celebrities and soldiers also had an impact on the popularity of different sunglass styles and started some trends. Then came the rise of round-framed glasses often with metal rims just like our  Jimmy Who and Matahari collection. Or elegant icons like Grace Kelly who inspired our Grace collection, screaming elegance and quiet luxury. These were fashionable and practical, at the same time that a massive trend was on the rise which would later be known as the  Aviator sunglasses.

The 70s were all about freedom and self expression and sunglasses reflected that perfectly. Large and round lenses with tinted lenses in all colours like amber, rose and light blue. Aviators still were the go to for both women and men but they were made with a little bit more flare just like the MP collection. The bohemian influences also brought in wire frames and earthy tones, while musicians like John Lennon wore OM like circular and small sunglasses and made them iconic.

The 80s were all about excess and giving the most  you can, everything in fashion was loud and sunglasses were no exception. Loud, proud and full of personality: Mona Collection. Oversized frames were where it was at, often in neon bright colours and bold black frames. Mirrored lenses and brand names everywhere. This is when Ray-Bans became a popular staple in the sunglass industry. Sporty sunglasses like our  Riz collection, also started to become a thing and shaped the future for modern streetwear.

The 90s dialed things back after the maximalism that  was had in the 80s. Sleek, slim frames came into style. Oval lenses, rectangular shapes and minimalist wire shapes dominated the decade that was the 90s. The grunge and hip-hop scene definitely influenced eyewear, like 90s icons Kurt Cobain who brought frames just like  Audrey into style. While hip-hop stars like Tupac introduced dark lensed, narrow, and urban cool sunglasses to fashion. So, if you want to bring the 90s back, MP and Audrey is the way to go.

The 2000s brought in a new wave of futuristic fashion and pop-culture obsession. Just like the fashion, sunglasses reflected the playful spirit of the Y2K era. Rimless shades, gradient lenses and asymmetrical silhouettes giving that “celebrity off-duty” look. Oversized frames were popular in this time but they often had metallic finishes that gave a techy, space-age feel — much like our duda collection.

The 2010s were all about reinvention. Fashion looked back to move forward, and sunglasses followed. Vintage styles made a huge comeback — cat-eyes, wayfares, and classic round frames with a modern twist. Think of our Olas silhouettes. This was the era of influencer fashion, with instagram driving trends faster than ever. Statement pieces that still felt wearable. Sunglasses weren't just about sun protection anymore, they were essential fashion accessories meant to complete your look.

The 2020s embrace individuality and experimentation. This decade is all about personal style over mainstreet trends. Sunglasses in the 2020s blur the line between vintage and futuristic. You’ll see throwback Y2K styles — oversized, wraparound, sporty — much like our  Duda and KingFisher collections, sitting right next to the minimalist, 90s- inspired wide frames like  Nami and the alternative Audrey style. Transparency, gradient lenses, tinted pastels and bold coloured frames dominate, often mixed in the same pair.  Whether you're channeling quiet luxury or full-blown maximalism, the 2020s are all about self-expression — whatever your vibe is, there’s a frame for it.

Sunglasses and their significance

Sunglasses have since then gone above and beyond for not only eye protection, but they have emerged into a powerful symbol of style, self expression and often brand identity in the fashion industry. This accessory has cemented its position as a fashion essential and one of its contributors.

The newest styles and the imaginative ideas of designers are reflected in sunglasses. Sunglasses are one of the year-round trend markers in fashion because, like bags and handbags, new tints and colors are introduced with each collection, captivating the fashion audience and acting as a visual depiction of the industry's changing aesthetics.

Sunglasses have evolved from their early survival-oriented origins in the Arctic to their appearance on high-end runways and in the street styles of celebrities. What began as a useful eye protection tool has become one of the fashion industry's most recognizable and expressive accessories. There is always a pair of sunglasses that expresses your style and narrative, whether you're going for a strong futuristic appearance with Duda or Rider, minimalist chic like Olas, or vintage beauty with our MPs.

In the ever-evolving world of fashion, sunglasses never go out of style. You are wearing history, culture, and fashion, not eyewear, regardless of whether you are wearing them for UV protection, style, or a purse attitude.

Find your perfect pair at Sun Hunters.