by Jennee Thompson

Created on: May 19, 2010

Sun kissed skin hasn’t always been the popular trend. In fact, those with tanned were associated with the poor or laborers in the field. It wasn’t until the fashion goddess, Coco Channel, came along and put a jolt in appearance. With her new darkened skinned look, her fans found her more fabulous and fashionable, starting a trend that has long lasted. By 1940, sun bathing was a common hobby among women. So, how did this change occur after many decades of attempting to have snow white skin?

The Victorian era is known for it’s fancy wigs, detailed dresses and powered faces. Members of high society would go to extreme measures to maintain their pale skinned look. The level of social class was a top priority and the only way to be in the sun for long hours of the sun without umbrellas or clothed in long wardrobes was to belong to the low class. Beggars, farmers and even the prostitutes would spend all day inheriting sun rays.

The scientist eventually discovered that the human body needs vitamin D to fight off illnesses and disease. This new found knowledge still didn’t start the popularity of sunbathing but the shades of sunlit skin wasn’t such a social standard.

So, maybe it was Coco Channel that started the trend after her day in the sun. The battle of skin vs. sun continues and always will. The more the scientists discovered, the more they understood the ultraviolet rays and then long term effect. Sun block was invented around to protect the skin, while other products were invented to make the body tan faster. By the late 70’s, tanning beds were incorporated so society could have tans year round.  The question of whether tanning is good or bad for your skin will never be answered.  Research will continue, debates will start and skin will still have a color to it.  Natural, pale, tanned?

The risk of skin cancer, melanoma, sun damage and sun poison should be taken into account before hours are lost soaking up the vitamin D. But there is something to be said about a nicely tanned body, and that is, that it usually looks healthier than the pasty white look. The rays of sun have health benefits but they are to be taken in small portions.

It’s time for me to lather up on that sunscreen and read a book in the hammock. Sunbathing is a very relaxing hobby. So, thank you Coco Channel for getting a little too much sun. 

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