Sunglasses began to become common in 1929 when they were first commercially produced and sold.
Prior to the late 1920s, sunglasses were less about fashion and more about function. It wasn't until the economic boom following World War I that sunglasses started their journey toward becoming a widespread accessory. In 1929, Sam Foster introduced the first mass-produced sunglasses, selling them to beachgoers in Atlantic City at an affordable price. This marked a significant turning point.
Here's a breakdown of the key periods:
- Pre-1929: Sunglasses existed but weren't widely available or considered a fashion item.
- 1929 Onward: Mass production and affordability led to increased popularity, particularly in sunny locales.
While they didn't immediately become ubiquitous, the availability of commercially produced sunglasses in 1929 laid the foundation for their widespread adoption in subsequent decades. The trend continued to grow as sunglasses became associated with style, leisure, and protection from the sun's rays.
In summary, while the need for eye protection existed for a long time, 1929 is a key year for when sunglasses began their journey to becoming commonplace due to their commercial availability.
