Browline glasses

Browline glasses are a style of eyewear that were popular during the mid-20th century, particularly in the United States. They are characterized by their distinctive design in which the upper part of the frame rim is bold or 'heavy', mimicking the natural browline.

History

Browline glasses were first manufactured by Shuron Ltd in 1947 under the name Ronsir. The design quickly gained popularity, and by the 1950s and 1960s, they accounted for half of all eyewear sales in the United States. Notable figures such as Malcolm X and Lyndon B. Johnson were known to wear this style of glasses.

Design

The defining feature of browline glasses is the 'browline' frame design. The upper part of the frame is thicker and often made of a different material than the lower part, creating a contrast that mimics the wearer's natural browline. The lower part of the frame is typically thin and often made of metal. The temples of browline glasses are usually made of the same material as the upper part of the frame and are also typically thicker.

Popularity and Revival

Browline glasses fell out of favor in the 1970s as styles moved towards wire frames. However, they have seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years, with many modern eyewear brands offering their own versions of the classic design. This revival can be attributed to a general trend towards retro and vintage-inspired fashion.

Cultural Impact

Browline glasses have had a significant cultural impact, particularly in the United States. They are often associated with the intellectual and political elite of the 1950s and 1960s, and have been featured in numerous films and television shows set during this period.