Contrary to the name, granny glasses were a sign of vibrant, energetic youth.

Granny Glasses, or Ben Franklin glasses, were first seen in California around 1965. A few months later, they were on such famous faces as John Lennon and The Byrds. Created by Roger McGuinn, these glasses were both fit for sunglasses and prescription glasses and the small half-frames were a staple for the Mod fashion dress. Granny glasses could be accompanied by “granny skirts” – baggy, ankle length skirts. As with most fashion trends (like the glassless glasses), the craze came to a quick end in 1967.