Punk Rock and Sunglasses
The wearing of sunglasses is a favourite style among some punk rock musicians. Many iconic rock and punk rock bands over the years have worn a pair of dark shades as a way to look cool and an attempt to retain some of their privacy. Many punk bands have worn their sunglasses well, however there are a few examples of bands that are particularly known for the love of their shades. Punk rock music and the punk rock lifestyle originated as an anti establishment gesture that had political and social implications, at least in the early days. Today the politics of punk may have become watered down somewhat in a lot of cases, however the punk rock style is still there on the screens and stages of the musical world.
The first band that comes to mind with regards to sunglasses is the well known and authentic punk band - The Ramones. The Ramones were hardly ever seen without their sunglasses on their faces, and their shades quickly became an iconic image of the band and what they stood for. The Ramones are often regarded as the first ever punk rock group, an American band in which all members adopted the last name ‘Ramone’ as their stage titles. The Ramones always had an identifiable style; with their shades, leather jackets and ripped denim jeans. The sunglasses especially projected an air of coolness and aloofness that became a crucial part of the band’s image.
Whether it be dior sunglasses or a generic brand from a discount shop, punk bands have always loved the cool look and privacy of a pair of shades. Other notable bands who fashioned sunglasses include The Sex Pistols, The Clash and many post punk bands who liked to wear sunglasses as well. It was a usual sight to see Robert Smith from the Cure in a pair of sunglasses, maybe sun glasses dior or something equally stylish. Punk rock is all about the music - at least that is what punk fans are always saying, and it is true most of the time. However, one can not ignore the fact that sunglasses and style in general have helped to distinguish punk music and that fashion has always existed hand in hand with the tunes.