The Changing Face Of Eyewear
For some individuals, eyewear is a necessity, for others, it is simply a fashion accessory. However, there is one thing for certain, these products have changed millions of peoples lives. In many instances, changes to eyewear occurred for practical reasons, while in many other cases, it was because of dramatic changes in our lifestyles and in society.
Eyeglasses
Eyeglasses of some shape or form have been around for hundreds of years. The invention of convex and concave lenses in the Middle Ages was a huge advance in this area. Since then, eyewear has evolved and over the years there have been different types of products to suit different tastes and requirements.
Monocles
As the name suggests, a monocle consists of a single lens. They were introduced in the 18th Century and became extremely popular in the late-19th Century and early-20th Century. They were normally worn by members of the upper class and were seen as a key, fashion accessory of the time. As well as portraying sophistication, they also had a practical use, improving the distance that people could see clearly, an aid for myopia.
Spectacles
Spectacles have changed dramatically over the years. Early versions were crude and uncomfortable but modern spectacles are lighter and designed as much for style as for improving sight. Over the years, famous faces have been associated with different styles of glasses, ranging from politicians to rock stars. The main concept of these products has changed very little, but the material used, and the frame designs have changed. In some cases, sunglasses and prescription glasses have been combined. Designer models have also been developed in recent years, to suit changes in clothing and fashion tastes.
Contact lenses
Its widely assumed that contact lenses are a new invention, but the first designs were invented as far back as 1508 by Leonardo da Vinci. They were made from glass and were uncomfortable. However, in the 1930s, plastic lenses were developed, which was a huge breakthrough. They were thinner and more comfortable to wear. These initial plastic lenses were referred to as 'hard' lenses but in 1971, 'soft' contact lenses were introduced. From then on, these products have advanced greatly, with disposable lenses and eventually disposable daily lenses now available. Some people don't like to wear glasses all the time, and this has lead to a huge increase in the popularity of these contact lenses. As fashion has changed, coloured lenses are also available to alter an individuals eye colour, even if they have perfect vision.
Major laser eye surgery
In recent years, people with sight problems have looked for more permanent solutions. As the eye-care industry has progressed, major, laser eye surgery is being used to correct certain vision problems. Initially, this procedure was not always successful, but this type of surgery has continued to improve, and is a safe way to improve your eyesight.
Our sight is one of our most important senses and eyewear can drastically change a persons life. These types of products continue to evolve and develop, and are now one of the most important items used to help our vision and have also become one of the main fashion accessories for many individuals.
Eyeglasses
Eyeglasses of some shape or form have been around for hundreds of years. The invention of convex and concave lenses in the Middle Ages was a huge advance in this area. Since then, eyewear has evolved and over the years there have been different types of products to suit different tastes and requirements.
Monocles
As the name suggests, a monocle consists of a single lens. They were introduced in the 18th Century and became extremely popular in the late-19th Century and early-20th Century. They were normally worn by members of the upper class and were seen as a key, fashion accessory of the time. As well as portraying sophistication, they also had a practical use, improving the distance that people could see clearly, an aid for myopia.
Spectacles
Spectacles have changed dramatically over the years. Early versions were crude and uncomfortable but modern spectacles are lighter and designed as much for style as for improving sight. Over the years, famous faces have been associated with different styles of glasses, ranging from politicians to rock stars. The main concept of these products has changed very little, but the material used, and the frame designs have changed. In some cases, sunglasses and prescription glasses have been combined. Designer models have also been developed in recent years, to suit changes in clothing and fashion tastes.
Contact lenses
Its widely assumed that contact lenses are a new invention, but the first designs were invented as far back as 1508 by Leonardo da Vinci. They were made from glass and were uncomfortable. However, in the 1930s, plastic lenses were developed, which was a huge breakthrough. They were thinner and more comfortable to wear. These initial plastic lenses were referred to as 'hard' lenses but in 1971, 'soft' contact lenses were introduced. From then on, these products have advanced greatly, with disposable lenses and eventually disposable daily lenses now available. Some people don't like to wear glasses all the time, and this has lead to a huge increase in the popularity of these contact lenses. As fashion has changed, coloured lenses are also available to alter an individuals eye colour, even if they have perfect vision.
Major laser eye surgery
In recent years, people with sight problems have looked for more permanent solutions. As the eye-care industry has progressed, major, laser eye surgery is being used to correct certain vision problems. Initially, this procedure was not always successful, but this type of surgery has continued to improve, and is a safe way to improve your eyesight.
Our sight is one of our most important senses and eyewear can drastically change a persons life. These types of products continue to evolve and develop, and are now one of the most important items used to help our vision and have also become one of the main fashion accessories for many individuals.
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