06/06/2026
JUNE 6 NATIONAL EYEWEAR DAY
June 6 is National Eyewear Day on the National Day Calendar and we clearly see the importance of bringing awareness to eye health and comprehensive eye exams. Join us as we share why taking care of your eyes is important to you health.
Spectacles have been around for about seven centuries, but early versions were only worn by monks and scholars. In fact, the first pair of eyeglasses consisted of two magnifying glasses that were set into bone with a hinge on the nose.
These first glasses were invented in Northern Italy around the late 13th century where eyeglasses were monks who used the spectacles to copy religious manuscripts. They wore them to read as well. Unfortunately, monks and other scholars who wore these eyeglasses had a hard time keeping them on their face.
In 1452, the invention of the printing press caused the demand for eyeglasses to soar. Many manufacturers came up with ways to make them more wearable. However, it wasn’t until 1730 that an optician from London added rods to the frames so that they could rest on the ears. About 22 years later, hinges were added to the rods. Through the years, there have been many eyeglass innovations.
5 Eyewear Innovations
Bifocals were invented in the 1760s. These eyeglasses made it possible to see objects both close up and far away.
Monocles were developed in the late 18th century and were worn around the neck. Interestingly, monocles were mainly worn by aristocrats.
Pince-nez were invented in the late 19th century. These eyeglasses were held in place by a spring-clip between the lenses instead of frames.
Sunglasses are a kind of dark eyeglasses that became popular in America around 1929. Eventually, sunglasses became an essential fashion item still in use today.
Ray-Ban are also knowns as “Aviators.” First developed for pilots in the 1930s, Ray-Ban eyeglasses were are now especially popular with celebrities.
In addition, plastic would change eyewear forever. Since the 1940s, plastic has made it possible to develop frames in a wide range of colors and styles. Some of the most popular eyeglass styles made from plastic have included cat-eye, round-rimmed, and oversized frames.
3 Reasons National Eyewear Day Matters
National Eyewear Day is a reminder for everyone to take good care of their eyes. Here are 3 reasons National Eyewear Day is important:
The day reminds everyone to get yearly comprehensive routine eye exam.
Today is a good day to remind us to keep our prescriptions updated to prevent serious eye problems.
National Eyewear day is also a reminder to protect our eyes from harmful UV rays with a pair of sunglasses.
Today, eyewear continues to not only improve our vision, plus adds elements of style and personality. Imagine John Lennon without his iconic round frames. Would Maverick be Top Gun without his aviators? No one would recognize Harry Caray without his trademark face-covering frames. Can you imagine seeing a picture of Teddy Roosevelt without his frameless glasses?
Eyewear defines, outlines, and punctuates a personality, too. Eyewear can be a little covert. For example, who is Clark Kent without his frames? Though many may have tried, no one wore the dark tortoise shells better than Audrey Hepburn.
3 Fun Fact About Eyewear
About 64% of the adult population wears prescription eyewear.
61% of people who need eyewear are nearsighted and 31 percent are farsighted.
Over 12 million Americans need vision correction, but don’t have any eyewear.
Clearly, eyewear plays a significant role in our lives. From improving vision and protection to providing a variety of style options, it certainly is something to celebrate on National Eyewear Day.
5 WAYS TO CELEBRATE NATIONAL EYEWEAR DAY
Wear your favorite eyewear. Whether they are for clearer vision, protection or just to change up your style, eyewear proves to be versatile in many ways. Show off your personality with a new set of frames or change up your look by swapping out old lenses. There are so many ways to celebrate.
Schedule your eye exam, as well as eye exams for the entire family.
Come up with a list of famous people who are known for wearing glasses.
Tell everyone how your eyewear makes you feel. Do your glasses make you feel smart, intelligent, mysterious, stylish, or unique?
Find a place to recycle old eyewear or glasses you no longer wear.
