Sunglasses became a symbol of cool in the early 20th century, coinciding with increased outdoor activities and the rise of automobile travel.
While sunglasses existed before, their transformation into a must-have fashion accessory and a marker of "coolness" happened progressively during the early decades of the 1900s. Several factors contributed to this evolution:
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Increased Outdoor Activities: As leisure time increased, more people engaged in outdoor activities, creating a practical need for eye protection from the sun.
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Rise of the Automobile: The growing popularity of cars exposed drivers and passengers to more sunlight and glare, further driving the demand for sunglasses.
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Hollywood Glamour: Movie stars quickly adopted sunglasses, both for practical reasons (avoiding bright studio lights) and for their aesthetic appeal. This association with celebrity and glamour significantly boosted the perception of sunglasses as a fashionable and "cool" item. They became an integral part of the iconic "Hollywood" look.
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Technological Advancements: Improvements in lens technology and frame designs made sunglasses more effective and comfortable, enhancing their desirability.
Therefore, it wasn't a single definitive moment, but rather a gradual shift throughout the early 20th century as practical necessity merged with Hollywood influence and technological improvements, solidifying sunglasses' place in the realm of "cool."
