Four People to Thank on National Sunglasses Day

Sunglasses are one of the most popular accessories on earth with seemingly everyone donning a pair on a sunny summer day. And while sunglasses have been around since the 12th century, they only recently made landfall in the United States. So while people enjoy their stylish protection from the sun, The Eye Institute reminds them of four people they should give thanks to on this wonderful holiday.

1. Sam Foster

In 1929, an American businessman, Sam Foster, sold the first pair of sunglasses in America on the Boardwalk in Atlantic City, New Jersey. He then began to both mass produce and sell sunglasses along the Jersey beaches with his company, Foster Grant of Atlantic City.

2. Hollywood Celebrities

If it were not for Hollywood celebrities, sunglasses may not have become popular in the United States. Hollywood celebrities are often credited with being trendsetters and fashion icons. This is why when celebrities began to wear sunglasses in the early 1900’s, everyone in the nation began to want to own a pair.

3. Edwin H. Land

Edwin H. Land was an American scientist and inventor who is credited with inventing polarized lenses. He was the founder and owner of the Polaroid Company and invented a cheap filter of polarized light that is considered a standard for modern lenses.

4. Bausch & Lomb (Ray Ban)

If you like sunglasses, you have much to thank Ray Ban for. During World War I, many fighter pilots complained of getting headaches and altitude sickness because of sun glare. The hard-working men and women at Ray Ban took Dr. Land’s invention of polarized lenses and created the iconic aviator sunglasses. These sunglasses were not only an effective tool for aviators, but they were also incredibly popular with celebrities.

So give thanks, don a pair of sunglasses, and enjoy National Sunglasses Day!

If you need a new pair of sunglasses, please visit the Optical Center at the Eye Institute where an expert optician will assist you in finding the perfect pair.