This cultural artifact is not life changing or absolutely necessary for survival, but it something that's always nice to own. Sunglasses have been a simple thing part of American culture for years, but have changed year by year. Do you remember the 90's? The size of sunglasses were the size of what regular lense glasses were. Year by year, the size of sunglasses have gotten bigger and bigger. They can be found on almost anyone, but I believe the most you see would be on the faces of celebrities. There are infinite combinations of colors, shapes, and sizes.
Let's not forget sunglasses #1 purpose: to shield eyes from the sun. But is that the main reason people buy sunglasses? If that we're the case, every person would have only have one pair. Try finding a person that only has one pair. I guarantee you probably won't find one. Sunglasses have become a staple fashion item (even though most of the time, they just make you look like a bug.)
Sunglasses are supposed to be protection for your eyes, but could it be argued that they are protection from people? When you want to be mysterious in disguise, sunglasses may be your tool to keep you hidden. Sunglasses are also a mechanism to give you "swagg." Do you ever see people wearing sunglasses at night? Normal people think, why on earth is that person wearing sunglasses? How can they see? It's what the cool kids do I guess.
When you analyze something, it opens your mind to a whole new perspective. It turns 2D thoughts into 3D. Sunglasses can be protection mechanisms, disguise mechanisms, or swagg mechanisms.
I like the post, Bridget! I have never really thought about sunglasses being a cultural trend in America, but you are so right! It is funny to look back at old pictures and see how things have evolved, especially sunglasses. I find it kind of funny how aviators and ray bans are coming back.
ReplyDeleteI have also noticed that when celebrities go out for personal days or events, they are always wearing sunglasses to shield or protect themselves from the paparazzi. I TOTALLY agree that they can be used for disguise and for privacy.