I finally figured out why these small, rectangular glasses frames

[MoseyWalker]

are so popular these days.

They use less materials, and are cheaper to make by the Chinese slave laborers.

They don't work worth a shit.

What else can you think of in this society is now popular that may be because it is simply cheaper?

Gotta love those nonstop commercials urging you to buy everything.

[JeffR]

1. Not sure about rectangular frames

I have two pairs of bifocals, one rectangular and the other oval. The rectangles seem to work better, at least at the computer. As to your larger point, I agree. I remember a stand-up comic years ago talking about the state of the US economy and our manufacturing base. The punchline was, "We make crap, but we can get it to you overnight!" Since then, the line should be, "We import crap, but we can get it to you overnight!"

[BuyingThyme]

2. Thongs.

[MoseyWalker]

3. You have a point there

someplace!

[MaggieSwanson]

4. Word. n/t

:P

[pitohui]

5. are you near sighted?

small rectangular frames are good for reading glasses (far sightedness) because you can look up from what you're reading and see the teevee or the rest of the room and it isn't all blurry because you can look over the lens

you are probably much too young to know about this

be glad, be very very glad

i agree such should not be sold for myopia

[Horse with no Name]

6. Mine are made of titanium

very lightweight. Easy on the nose.
And I can see.
And...trust me when I say, the plastic ones were much cheaper.

[morningglory]

7. Contrary to your theory, the trend in boy's pants/shorts/culottes..

They can make 15 thongs out of the missing part of each pant leg.