Here's an interesting observation:

In the 1800s eyeglasses were considered evidence of old age and infirmity. As a result, people preferred to wear spectacles only when they were needed. This was especially true for women. Those who could afford it found hand-held designs such as the lorgnette to avoid having glasses on their faces.

http://www.museumofvision.org/exhibitions/?key=44&subkey=4&relkey=35