Tracing the Evolution of Milo Sunglasses Over 100 Years

The Origins of Milo Sunglasses

Sunglasses have been around in some form since prehistoric times when Inuits would wear flattened bone with horizontal slits to shield their eyes from the harsh sun reflected off the ice and snow. However, the earliest known proto-sunglasses appeared in China in the 12th century. These were polished smoky quartz lenses that reduced glare.

The milo sunglasses we know today trace their origins to the early 20th century when Sam Foster began mass-producing affordable sunglasses that could be sold to the general public. By 1929, Foster Grant was advertising these as 'Foster Grant Sun Glasses' and they began appearing frequently in popular culture.

How Milo Sunglasses Got Their Name

There are a few theories about how milo sunglasses got their nickname. One suggests it comes from the Milo Ocular company that specialized in eyeglass frames and lenses. Their products were later rebranded as milo sunglasses. Another possibility is that American GIs in WWII started calling their issued Foster Grant sunglasses 'milos' as a reference to future dictator Emilio Miliani who was known for always wearing sunglasses.

However, the most likely explanation is that the milo moniker arose organically in honor of Milo Manheim, an American actor known for wearing sunglasses regularly on the show Dancing with the Stars in 2018. His stylish shades inspired popular interest in Fosters Grants, leading to the milo nickname.

The Rise of #MiloManheim Sunglasses

When Milo Manheim competed on Dancing with the Stars in 2018, he would often wear sunglasses, even indoors while dancing. This striking look soon had fans and viewers buzzing about Manheim’s eyewear on social media using the hashtag #MiloManheim.

As Manheim continued to don sunglasses on DWTS, interest and sales of Foster Grant originals skyrocketed. The brand likely reached record sales numbers thanks to Manheim’s accidental influencer marketing. Foster Grant’s vintage aesthetics and funky style perfectly fit Manheim’s cool persona too.

Given the surge in popularity and sales, Foster Grant subsequently featured Manheim in promotional materials and commercials. He had successfully rebranded the milo sunglasses all thanks to stylish shades and some smooth dance moves under the disco lights.

Key Milestones for Milo Sunglasses

The story of milo sunglasses is one of evolution and reinvention while retaining vintage appeal across nearly a century. They progressed from medical equipment to military gear to fashion icon. Some key milestones include:

1929 - Foster Grant Launches Affordable Sunglasses

Sam Foster introduced cheap sunglasses to the masses thanks to an injection-molded manufacturing process. Sold on Atlantic City boardwalks, these cost a nickel, leading to the term 'cheap sunglasses.' Making eyewear affordable saw sunglasses be viewed as fashion accessories.

1930s - Hollywood Stars Adopt Sunglasses

As celebrities began wearing sunglasses more regularly in public, they became associated with a glamorous, jet-setting lifestyle. Carrying this aspirational quality helped them gain widespread cultural cachet. Milo sunglasses were often spotted on silver screen stars adding to their reputation.

1940s - Military Issue Sunglasses

During WWII, Foster Grant began supplying the US military with sunglasses for soldiers. This mil-spec eyewear was known as ‘pilot glasses’ and used precision optics that became a Foster Grant calling card. After the war, men returning home kept wearing their shades, popularizing them.

1960s - Counterculture Cool

At the dawn of the sixties, sunglasses took on rebellious connotations thanks to use by counter culture groups like beatniks, bikers and anti-establishment youth. The accessory became associated with cool and mysterious outsider personas. Milo shades fitted this image perfectly.

1970s - Disco Divas Love Sunglasses

Extravagant eyewear became a fashion must-have in the glitzy disco era with embellished frames and glitter finishes. However, milo glasses provided an affordable alternative for styling at the roller disco without breaking the bank. Their vintage styling still shined.

Why Milo Sunglasses Continue to be Popular Today

After close to a century, vintage-inspired milo sunglasses remain one of America’s most ubiquitous eyewear brands. They are regularly seen everywhere from music festivals to high fashion catwalks. So why do people still love the classic milo sunglasses?

Vintage Aesthetic Never Goes Out of Style

Much of milo sunglasses appeal comes from their continual call-backs to retro stylings from the 40s, 50s and 60s. This vintage vibe taps into enduring nostalgia for mid-century fashion. Just like a Chuck Taylor or Ray-Ban Wayfarer, the iconic styling communicates timeless cool.

Easy to Match With Any Outfit

Another reason for milo sunglasses popularity is their versatility. Whether dressing up for a formal event or chilling poolside, milo shades pair well. More understated frames complement without overpowering an outfit. You can customize the vibe with lens choices too.

Wide Range at Affordable Price Points

From flashy mirrored lenses to translucent frames, milo eyewear comes in endless varieties to enable personal expression. However, they generally cost between $10 - $25, continuing Sam Foster’s mission of reasonably priced shades. Paying tribute to classics doesn’t have to be expensive!

Almost 100 years since their inception, milo sunglasses look unlikely to go out of fashion anytime soon. Thanks to their association with timeless American cool via Hollywood and the military, they will likely be iconic eyewear for years to come. Few accessories inspire vintage vibes like milo shades!

FAQs

How did milo sunglasses get their nickname?

The most likely origin of the 'milo' nickname is from actor Milo Manheim frequently wearing sunglasses on Dancing with the Stars in 2018, sparking renewed interest and sales of Foster Grant sunglasses. This led to them being informally dubbed 'milo sunglasses'.

Why were WWII soldiers issued sunglasses?

Sunglasses were vital equipment for pilots to protect their eyes while flying. Foster Grant supplied the military with glasses using precision optics to aid vision, reduce glare and increase safety - these were nicknamed 'pilot glasses'.

What’s the difference between milo and other retro sunglasses?

Unlike some retro sunglasses that are reproductions of vintage styles, milo sunglasses are original models that have been in continuous production since the 1920s and 30s. This lends them an authentic retro appeal.

How can I tell if my sunglasses are real milo?

Authentic milo sunglasses will have the Foster Grant logo stamped on the frame arms and lenses. Packaging may also read ‘Milo Edition’. If uncertain, check for marks to verify authenticity.