Two thousand years ago, Inuit people sliced narrow slits into panes of flattened walrus ivory to fight snow blindness as they sledded the backcountry.
In the first century, Roman emperor Nero saw the world – or at least Roman gladiators – through the empirical gaze of coloured glasses, from behind handheld polished emerald gems.
And 12th century Chinese judges wore lenses made of smoke-coloured quartz to feign emotional detachment from the cases they presided over.
Finally, in the early 1900s, sunglasses became more widespread, particularly among movie stars. It is believed that they wore them to avoid being recognised by fans, but an alternative reason given is that they had red eyes from the powerful lighting needed due to the extremely slow speed film stocks of the time. Whatever the reason, stars continued making sunglasses popular long after improvements in film.
Today, no fashion moment is complete without a pair, and this month we look at what's really hot in the stylish world of eyewear.
Jean Scott speaks about being a risk taker, running an eyewear business in Macau and what it takes to stay on top.
Celebrating the history and craftsmanship of eyewear, Visual Culture is a lesson in design and workmanship, both past and present.
If craftsmanship, attention to design and sustainability are on your checklist when looking for eyewear, Smith & Norbu may be the place for you – bespoke frames that are tailor-made down to the finest detail
What can define a moment in fashion and cultural history faster than a pair of glasses? From John Lennon to Jackie O, one practical and very fashionable accessory has stood the test of time, and continues to inspire trends
