“Frames” to the windows of our soul, eyeglasses are also a window through which to see the world. They can impact how others perceive us and even shape our own self-image. But there’s something else quite intriguing about the phenomenon of spectacles—their complete IRONY.

DO GLASSES HAVE SUPERPOWERS?

First case in point: studies support the stereotype that people wearing eyeglasses appear more intelligent, trustworthy, and even successful. As if, four eyes must be better than two. Either that or we assume all that reading has somehow translated into power. However, if frames are blatantly obstructing their wearer’s eyes, perception can quickly shift to distrust (Oh dear!). As in: “What are those secret weapons they have on their face? Are they trying to capture my soul or something?” In the spirit of entertainment, I address the example of virtual goggles. Dr. Neil Handley, curator of the British Optical Association Museum, points out an irony, that “There is a suspicion that is similar to wearing Google Glasses today.” Imagine attending a party and encountering a Google-goggle wearer—wouldn’t you feel an overwhelming sense of suspicion?

ALTER(ED) EGO

Second case in point: Yes, glasses are cool. In the 1970s, glasses became a true fashion statement for the first time. Ever since, a slew of celebrities—John Lennon, Elton John, Lady Gaga, Bono, Robert Downey Jr.—have made donning glasses, especially sunglasses, the epitome of cool. 

But glasses also offer a way to present an alternate version of ourselves-–the version that cares less about what others think (or perhaps, the version that inconspicuously cares more). Take Anna Wintour, for example. She once told CNN’s Christine Amanpour that she finds her sunglasses “useful because you avoid people knowing what you’re thinking about. They help me when I’m feeling a bit tired or sleepy. And maybe they’ve just become a crutch in part of who I am.” On 60 Minutes, she admitted her sunglasses  as a kind of “armor,” especially when sitting by the catwalk: “If I am bored out of my mind, nobody will notice.“ 

Similarly, iconic designer Karl Lagerfeld revealed why he always wore sunglasses: “You hide behind your sunglasses because you don’t want to be observed. I don’t want everyone to be able to see my facial expressions.” But the irony in his and Ms. Wintour’s statements is obvious: wearing sunglasses will of course heighten how much one will be observed, especially if worn indoors. People will stare harder, as if staring will burn through those shades to finally perceive the expression behind those shielded eyes. Which is it, an inconspicuous or rather conspicuous tactic for more attention? 

Andy Warhol, another habitual user of sunglasses indoors, was less confusing regarding his reason. His was a simpler, less ego-driven, “means of glamorous detachment,” as he once stated. He was almost never seen not wearing his very ‘New York’ Moscot la Miltzen glasses, whether at Studio 54 or special events at the Factory. 

EYEWEAR INEQUALITY

Third case in point: If someone not famous were to emulate Ms. Wintour, Mr. Lagerfeld, or beloved Andy, what then? IRONICALLY, only the famous—particularly those tied to fashion, arts, or film—can pass this act as acceptable. For anyone else, keeping shades on longer than 30 seconds inside would have a dramatically opposite effect. Either it would demonstrate they are trying too hard to seem cool (clearly, the antithesis of cool) OR it would blatantly make them out to be the most gauche and pretentious of company.

For some celebrities like Iris Apfel, however, a signature style of glasses can become a glorifying trait and the very symbol of their brand as an icon. But again, IRONICALLY, for those unfamous, glasses are more humanizing. By referencing imperfect vision, they make their wearer seem more approachable and relatable. 

Isn’t it ironic? Don’tcha think?

Conclusion: Viewing the world through a small piece of glass does in fact affect our perception of the world, just as it affects the perception others have of us. Like filming or watching a movie, it’s all for the sake of the act.

I wear my sunglasses at night

So I can, so I can

Watch you weave then breathe your story lines

And I wear my sunglasses at night

So I can, so I can

Keep track of the visions in my eyes

While, she’s deceiving me

Don’t switch the blade on the guy in shades, oh no

Don’t masquerade with the guy in shades, oh no

I can’t believe it

‘Cause you’ve got it made with the guy in shades, oh no

I wear my sunglasses at night

So I can, so I can

Forget my name while you collect your claim

“I Wear My Sunglasses at Night,” Corey Hart