Shades of Time: The History of Sunglasses from Protection to Fashion Statement

Sunglasses—those ubiquitous yet indispensable companions of sunny days and fashion-conscious folks—have a long and fascinating history. Their evolution from practical eye protection to stylish fashion statements mirrors the ever-changing dynamics of human culture. But this article goes beyond the lenses and frames; it uncovers a unique blend of form and function that defines modern eyewear. MCR Safety delves into the intriguing world of sunglasses, not merely as accessories to shield our eyes from the sun's blinding glare but as a reflection of innovation, style, and the resilience of the human spirit.

In 1980, Crews Glasses marked the dawn of a new era in eyewear, later evolving into MCR Safety—a name now synonymous with innovative safety glasses and top-tier personal protective equipment. The 'C' in MCR is a homage to Crews, laying the foundation for the PPE brand we know today.  For over 40 years, MCR has been a part of the safety glasses industry—they've been trailblazers, leading the way. Their genius? It centers around transforming traditional safety glasses into fashionable, cool-looking shades that effortlessly blend style with protection.

As you read this article, you'll explore the world of sunglasses and the innovative realm where style meets safety, all through the lens of MCR Safety's legacy. By the end, you'll better understand the intersection of fashion and safety and how modern safety glasses bridge the gap between protecting your eyes and enhancing your style.

Far from being mere fashion pieces, sunglasses serve as essential tools with multiple benefits. Their primary role is crucial: safeguarding the eyes against the detrimental impacts of intense UV sunlight. By blocking harmful UV rays, sunglasses minimize the risk of eye damage and provide relief from the sun's intense glare, which can disrupt our day-to-day tasks.

Beyond mere sun defense, sunglasses play a pivotal role in various activities. Cyclists utilize them for clear vision across rugged terrains; runners and athletes rely on sports-specific sunglasses for performance and eye protection. Polarized sunglasses help fishermen see past water surface glare to find fish, while golfers prefer tinted lenses to improve green visibility. Bifocal sunglasses meet the dual needs of vision correction and sun protection. A range of activities benefit from the advanced features of high-performance sunglasses. Notably, those on job sites arguably have the greatest need for sunglasses' protective qualities.

MCR Safety's Connection

Crews Eyewear, established in the 1980s and now part of the overall MCR Safety brand, boasts a celebrated history in safety eyewear spanning over four decades of expertise in safeguarding workers across various industries. But their commitment extends beyond mere protection; they've masterfully fused safety and style, transcending conventional safety eyewear to create a seamless blend of protective glasses and fashionable sunglasses. Their extensive array of eyewear styles caters to individuals who demand safety and style.

MCR's wide range of eyewear styles meets the needs of those who prioritize safety and style. 

Whether working on a construction site, within a manufacturing space or participating in outdoor activities, MCR's safety glasses provide vital eye protection without sacrificing style. With MCR Safety, the choice between safety and fashion is eliminated. Their eyewear melds these elements, delivering unparalleled protection and aesthetic appeal.

When Were Sunglasses Invented?

Sunglasses trace their origins far back in history. Among the earliest accounts is the Roman Emperor Nero, known to have used a mirrored surface, possibly a green mineral called smaragdus, to watch gladiatorial combats in the Colosseum. The purpose remains debated among historians.

While the mid-1600s saw the introduction of solid-tinted glass lenses, they served a purpose quite different from today's sun protection. A pivotal moment in sunglass history occurred in 1885 with Theodore-Edouard Fieuzal, who established the relationship between short-wavelength light and glare sensitivity. This discovery led to using tinted or absorptive lenses for sun glare protection, balancing light transmission, and controlling sunlight exposure without compromising color vision and depth perception.  With this innovation complete, it laid the groundwork for photochromic lenses, which can adjust to UV and visible light exposure changes. For further details on photochromic lens technology, refer to their article "Praiseworthy Photochromic Safety Glasses and Auto-Tinting Advantages."

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Previously Featured on MCR Safety's blog.

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