Geek Chic Part 1: History of Nerd Glasses

Bell bottoms, leg warmers, wide leg pants, high waist pants, big hair, and geek glasses: all trends that have come full circle in the past few decades.  These trends were all incredibly popular when my parents were growing up and now they have returned to popular culture.

Geek Eyewear witnessed a popularity surge after NBA stars, like Lebron James, Kevan Durant, and Dwyane Wade, began wearing the frames to post-game press conferences.  NBA player Russell Westbrook claims to have started this trend.  He may have started it in the NBA, but it traces back way before he was even born.  Nerdy glasses began in the 1950’s when Buddy Holly wore them on stage, becoming the first young performer to wear glasses while performing.  These glasses became a huge part of his performing identity and left a lasting impression on pop culture.

After seeing Holly perform on the TV show Sunday Night at the London Palladium, another rock-and-roll superstar came out with his signature glasses.  John Lennon commented, “Now I can wear my specs on stage.”   Elvis Costello and Elton John are two other performers to since mock Holly’s signature look.

In this generation, celebrities of all types are wearing Geek Chic. Lebron James, Justin Bieber, Justin Timberlake, Johnny Depp, Zooey Deschanel, and Tina Fey have sported the look on the red carpet and in their everyday lives.   They have mastered the look, now it’s your turn.   Geek Chic Part 2 will give tips and information on how to best wear Geek Eyewear.  In the meantime, Dr Tavel has all of your Geek Eyewear!