Glasses Stemming As An Insecurity
The switch from necessity to accessory was not instant: I can distinctly recount the first time I entered middle school with glasses. There I was sitting in class not paying attention to the teacher, as one does, but instead, I was going around the classroom counting the number of students who wore glasses. And shocker, I was one of the very few.
The magical glow-ups in movies such as The Princess Diaries didn’t help my case. Where there was once a girl with frizzy hair and glasses, who was invisible to the world and, as per the larger audience, ‘nowhere near beautiful’, there now stood a girl in sleek, blown-out hair and well… I guess contacts. In reality, she just needed to perfect her curly hair routine and the glasses. The glasses were FINE. This magical transformation ultimately gave rise to a new concept, a new standard of beauty, if you will. Concluding the argument with—“if you want to be a showstopper, remove your glasses”.
However, over the years, I’ve noticed a change.
Eyewear Reframed
Now, when I glance across the room, there are at least 10, if not 20, individuals sporting glasses—ranging from a variety of frames, sizes, and colours that are now identified as a personality trait. While some opt for everyday glasses, others take it up a notch. Glasses now translate practicality into style. Instead of shying away from the concept, individuals now incorporate glasses to bring their outfits together.
Jumping onto this new and growing bandwagon, high-fashion brands such as Miu Miu, Prada, and Gentle Monster are introducing unconventional glasses designed to be the star of the show. You can embrace the chic, office-siren aesthetic through a balance of boldness and elegance, or you could opt for a more futuristic, yet Y2K aesthetic with a baggy jean.
Marketing A Once-Insecurity As Confidence
With the help of effective social media marketing, including brand collabs and influencer PR unboxing videos, brands such as Gentle Monster have created a concept in which the extravagant overtakes the everyday, and glasses are rebranded as a statement piece. From influencers receiving architecturally inspired, literal wands with glasses in their mail, to the unboxing of a huge light-up unicorn as part of their collaboration with Jennie from Blackpink. Metal frames, lined with 3D silver stars, are now seen replacing the classic ‘Harry Potter’ frame. It just works.
People with actual prescription glasses now catch individuals wearing the same pair they were insecure about, not for clear vision but for style. Maybe it’s by following the famous ‘sandwich method’ where you match your frames with your shoes to create a cohesive look, or (and I say this in the best way) your frames could be so obnoxious, they’re the main characters of your fit.
Reshaping Personality and Identity
Wearing glasses no longer automatically enlists you as a nerd. Instead, it provides a space to explore and reshape identity. Choosing your pair of glasses allows you to self-perceive while simultaneously being externally perceived. It offers a sense of agency and confidence in picking up a pair that not only goes with your outfit but also allows you to showcase different versions of yourself.
Oh! Were you called a nerd when you wore glasses back in the day? Well, nerds are back in fashion anyway. Trendy and ‘out there’ glasses shift the narrative from stereotypical nerd propaganda to a more intentional, fashionable nerd, if you will.
You could opt for a more sober, everyday neighbourhood-girl look, or add a bit more pizzazz with cat-eyed frames. Or may I suggest oversized frames for a both cute and elegant look. Or better yet, frameless glasses instead. And of course, if you’re a fashion girly who’s not afraid of a challenge, I recommend the Gentle Monster – ‘Bouquet 02’.
You Can Be (Eye)konic Too
Don’t have prescription glasses? Never mind that, and grab yourself a pair. It’s not only about perfecting your vision, but it’s about being seen. The right pair can easily transform your outfit along with your confidence. So, next time, don’t think twice. Wear those glasses to the ball, wear them to the club, and match them to your bag, too. Your frame is not a barrier. It’s what brings it all together.