As the vibrant hues of summer gracefully yield to the warm, earthy tones of fall, Vaani Kapoor, the epitome of elegance and fashion, offers a captivating glimpse into her stylish world. Amidst the changing seasons, one accessory stands resolute – the timeless sunglasses. Kapoor, in her latest fashion revelation, adorns a mesmerizing crochet top paired with eye-catching orange acetate sunglasses, reminding us that even as summer’s sunsets grow more distant, our love for sunnies remains unwavering.
Sunglasses, a quintessential accessory, have carved a permanent niche in the realm of fashion. They shield our eyes from the blazing summer sun and add a touch of intrigue to our winter ensembles. Among the myriad materials used to craft these iconic eyepieces, acetate has emerged as a frontrunner, reigning supreme for over half a century.
Derived from humble wood pulp, acetate is a plant-based synthetic fiber that boasts a unique blend of versatility and durability. What sets it apart is not just its aesthetic appeal, with a broad spectrum of colors and styles, but also its eco-conscious footprint. As the fashion industry increasingly embraces environmental awareness, acetate has surged to the forefront, flooding the market with its vivid hues and eco-friendly attributes.
Fashion houses have embarked on a journey to redefine eyewear, pushing the boundaries of creativity. Gucci, for instance, unveiled sunglasses in their ready-to-wear autumn/winter ’19/’20 collection, ingeniously designed to resemble ski masks, blurring the lines between utility and fashion. Dior, on the other hand, made a resounding statement with their SoReal collection, featuring reflective sunglasses that exude an air of futurism. Courrèges, in their ready-to-wear spring/summer 2019 line, showcased a plethora of sunglasses, ranging from slim and elegant to boldly framed styles, underscoring the versatility of acetate.
However, it was Balenciaga who took a daring step, reviving the playful and oversized acetate glasses reminiscent of the ’70s. Their Fall/Winter 2022 collection featured bug-eyed, tinted sunglasses that dared to challenge conventions, making a striking statement in the world of eyewear.
Celebrities and fashion brands have fervently embraced acetate sunglasses. BEYONCÉ, the reigning queen of pop, graced her tour with a pair of Thierry Lasry “Kanibaly” acetate shield sunglasses in striking white and black, elevating her stage presence. The South Korean sunglasses brand Gentle Monster collaborated with Jennie from BlackPink, curating a collection of acetate-based glasses. Jennie, a style icon in her own right, is often seen sporting her signature black acetate sunglasses, whether on stage during tours or captured in paparazzi photos. Prada, Gucci, and Chanel have also joined the eco-conscious movement, offering a line of bio-acetate sunglasses that seamlessly blend fashion and sustainability.
Yet, the celebrity endorsement of acetate sunglasses begs the question: are they genuinely eco-friendly, or is this a case of greenwashing? It is imperative to recognize that recyclability alone does not absolve fast fashion practices. Acetate, created from purified cellulose derived from cotton or wood pulp, requires an enzyme agent to initiate the decomposition process for recycling. Merely disposing of acetate sunglasses may not align with the environmentally conscious practices we envision.
To ensure your purchase aligns with eco-conscious values, consider these steps and facts. While acetate may not be the perfect solution, it undeniably trumps virgin plastic in terms of environmental impact. Opting for bio-based acetate sunglasses is a commendable choice, as is selecting a brand that champions product recycling and sustainability. If you find yourself torn between style and eco-consciousness, opt for a vibrant pair of acetate sunnies. Let your outfit of the day (OOTD) shine with the brilliance of eco-friendly fashion.
In a world where fashion intertwines with environmental responsibility, acetate sunglasses serve as a symbol of the industry’s evolving commitment to sustainability. As we embrace each changing season, we are reminded that style, like the acetate sunglasses themselves, can stand the test of time while leaving a positive imprint on our planet.
