Sunday, May 2, 2010

May 2, 2010 - Shades


My quest in fashion research continues… with the warming of the season’s, never did its function and design become more apparent -before their popularity went extreme in the 1930s, our Chinese neighbors had already adopted an unused form of eye protection centuries before.  Used in a court room setting, smoke-colored quartz lenses guarded its wearer from eye expressions.  Hardly functional outside its double doors, the 20th century gave birth to a new objective, an advanced twist on eye wear.  Learning that our environment is fierce and unforgiving, Sam Foster understood this… having created his first pair of Foster Grant sunglasses on the Boardwalk in Atlantic City, NJ – suddenly, and across the nation people were talking about Foster’s new craze!


This emerging trend would inspire two key ingredients… necessity and style.  With WWII brewing in the east, Ray Ban introduced its classic aviator outline with polarized lens technology (Edward H. Land, Polaroid Company) in 1936.  This original design proved effective for American pilots and above all perennially cool.  Prompted by this innovative discovery, musicians and celebs hopped on board.  Their degree of expression became an indispensable commodity and above all, a focal point in the fashion world. 
Styles and shapes blossomed in the 1950-60s. Once again Ray Ban designs another attractive frame – the Wayfarer (1952).  James Dean, Audrey Hepburn, and our 35th President-JFK, casually accent this simple frame.
Sure looking great is cool, but selecting a pair functional to your lifestyle is even more important.  At a minimum, your stunner shades should prevent 99% of UV rays (ultraviolet).  Scientists have found its harmful effects directly connected to those exposed for prolonged periods of time.  Cataracts, Photokeratitis (eye sunburns) and benign growths have been known to grow on the eye’s surface.  Invest in a quality pair and wear them often, even in clouded landscapes! I would encourage you to visit your Optometrist or sunglass specialist.


Eyewear has become quite the buyer’s market; designers in clothing have expanded their original lines into the sunglass industry.  Polo, Gucci, D&G, Tiffany & Co., Dior, Marc Jacobs, Oakley, Burberry and Lacoste offer some exceptional pairs at affordable prices.  While $200 may be a pretty steep price, it’s worth the investment.  Your eyes are precious, and worth protecting.  There is so much beauty on this earth and so many special moments worth witnessing… be creative and have fun! There is so much to choose from.


Images provided by: weheartit.com


“The eyes indicate the antiquity of the soul.” Ralph Waldo Emerson
All the best,
VP


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