FASHION & FUNCTION - THE ORIGINS OF TINTED LENSES

There is a certain satisfaction that comes with a tinted lens. Perfect for warmer and transitional months or for amplifying an outfit, they are the perfect colourful compliment. With a similarly colourful history, we thought we’d explore how tinted lenses went from rocks and minerals to the fashion statements we recognise today.

Possibly the most dramatic introduction to a tinted ‘lens’, Emperor Nero used polished gemstones to watch gladiator matches, indulging in luxury despite potentially hindering his view. By the 12th century in China, magistrates wore smoky quartz lenses to obscure their expressions during court proceedings, adding an element of mystique and intimidation to their judgments. Fast forward to the 18th century, when English optician James Ayscough introduced blue and green-tinted glasses, he aimed to improve vision and layed the groundwork for huge future advancements in eyewear.

Disease in Europe in the 19th century left people with light sensitivity conditions, encouraging the development of tinted glasses in yellow and brown, highlighting a very early intervention of using tinted lenses as a treatment. Finally, Edwin H. Land's polarised lenses created in the 20th century reduced glare and revolutionised outdoor visibility. Ray-Ban's popularisation of these lenses in the late 1930s cemented sunglasses as indispensable accessories.

From the courts of ancient emperors to modern-day fashion, tinted glasses have evolved into a blend of health benefits and style, proving their enduring appeal and functionality. For us, customisation and personalisation is what makes a pair of tinted frames, which is why we offer a full selection of not only colours, but graduations, darknesses and transitionals.

Explore our house colours for a delicate pastel hue, choose one of our custom colours or create your own entirely bespoke option, all of which are hand-dyed in London.