June 27th marks the celebration of National Sunglasses Day every year - a day dedicated to both the stylish charm and essential sun protection that sunglasses provide. Not just a mere accessory for flaunting or adding an element of mystique, sunglasses have a crucial part in safeguarding our visual health from damaging UV rays.
National Sunglasses Day every year is a day to sport your best pair and also spread awareness about their necessity in eye care protection.
History of National Sunglasses Day
Sunglasses have a history that dates back to Roman times, with Emperor Nero allegedly using polished emeralds to watch gladiator fights. However, the invention similar to modern sunglasses traces back to 12th century China where they were worn by judges in a courtroom to hide their facial expressions. They had flat panels of smoky quartz to protect the eyes from glare and harmful UV rays.
The concept of sunglasses evolved in the 18th century when James Ayscough, an English optician, produced glasses with tinted lenses. He believed that blue or green lenses could alleviate specific vision impairments. Fashionable sunglasses started to become widespread in the early 20th century, especially in the film industry to shield actors’ eyes from strong studio lighting.
In 1937, Polaroid filters were commercialized by Edwin H. Land, which allowed sunglasses to eliminate glare and ultraviolet (UV) rays. Sunglasses have since grown into a popular fashion accessory, with different styles and designs produced by various brands worldwide.
National Sunglasses Day was launched by The Vision Council in 2014, a not-for-profit association that acts as a worldwide advocate for the eyewear and eyecare industry. The Vision Council represents manufacturers and suppliers in the optical industry with their mission being to foster growth in the sector via education, advocacy, consumer outreach, strategic relationship building, and fostering industry forums.
National Sunglasses Day Timeline
Precursor to Sunglasses
James Ayscough developed spectacles with tinted lenses as medical devices for those with poor vision.
Commercialization of Sunglasses
Sam Foster began mass production of sunglasses in America through his company, Foster Grant.
Polarized Sunglasses
Edwin H. Land, founder of Polaroid Corporation, created and patented polarized lens technology which reduces glare.
Ray-Ban Aviator
Bausch & Lomb developed Ray-Ban Aviator sunglasses, originally designed for U.S. military pilots to protect their eyes while flying.
Fashion Statement
Sunglasses began to be seen as essential fashion accessories, thanks to trendsetters like Audrey Hepburn and Marilyn Monroe.
National Sunglasses Day
The Vision Council created National Sunglasses Day to promote the importance of wearing sunglasses to protect the eyes from harmful UV rays.
Ideas to Celebrate National Sunglasses Day
Sunglasses Photo Contest
Create a social media contest where followers post their best photos wearing sunglasses. Use a unique hashtag, such as #ShadesOfTheDay, to track entries and announce a winner at the end of the day.
Sunglasses Crafting Workshop
Run a DIY sunglasses decorating workshop where participants can bring in old pairs of sunglasses and re-vamp them with a variety of craft supplies.
80s Sunglasses Movie Night
Host a movie night featuring classic 80s films well-known for their sunglasses scenes. Think 'Top Gun', 'Risky Business' or even 'The Blues Brothers' to celebrate the day.
Sun and Shades Picnic
Organize a daytime picnic on a sunny beach or park, where wearing sunglasses is not just fashionable, but also practical. Enjoy the sunny day with food, games, and your best shades
Sunglasses Fashion Show
Host a fashion show where the main accessory is sunglasses. Invite local models and fashion enthusiasts to participate and show off the latest sunglasses trends.
8 Interesting Facts About Sunglasses
Inuit Snow Goggles
The Inuit people invented snow goggles made from flattened walrus ivory, which helped prevent snow blindness. The narrow slits in the goggles stopped the harmful rays but let enough visibility to see.
The Film Star Accessory
Sunglasses became popular amongst movie stars in the 1920s as a way to avoid recognition, but also to protect their eyes from the harsh lights on set.
Material Revolution
Most sunglasses worn in the 18th century had lenses made of smoky quartz, which provided zero protection against UV rays. It wasn't until the 20th century that glasses with UV protection became available.
Popularity Surge
The mass production of sunglasses started in 1929 by Sam Foster, and it quickly became popular as a fashion statement. Currently, it is estimated that over a billion pairs of sunglasses are sold worldwide every year.
Protection Against UV Light
Sunglasses can protect the eyes from both UVA and UVB radiation. Some types of sunglasses can block up to 100% of these harmful rays.
Mirrored Sunglasses
Mirrored sunglasses have a reflective optical coating on the outside of the lenses. This makes them appear like small mirrors and is especially useful for extreme conditions, such as snow sports, as they reflect glare to protect the eyes.
The Costliest Sunglasses
The title of the most expensive sunglasses goes to the Chopard De Rigo Vision Sunglasses, priced at $408,496. The glasses are made of 24-carat gold and studded with 51 full-cut 4-carat River diamonds.
Prescription Sunglasses
Prescription sunglasses were introduced in the 1930s. These sunglasses are designed for those who need vision correction but still want to protect their eyes from sunlight.
National Sunglasses Day FAQs
Next National Sunglasses Day Dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | June 27th | Tuesday |
| 2024 | June 27th | Thursday |
| 2025 | June 27th | Friday |
| 2026 | June 27th | Saturday |
| 2027 | June 27th | Sunday |
| What is the pattern? | Every June 27th | |
National Sunglasses Day Word Search
- Sunglasses
- Frames
- Shades
- Polarized
- Fashion
- Eyewear