When you put on the right pair of sunglasses, your confidence soars, there’s a spring in your step and your heart is filled with the joys of whatever season it happens to be. Sunglasses are the year-round accessory that transform your look like nothing else. And there’s no such thing as having too many pairs. In fact, you should always be thinking about which pair you’re going to add to your collection next. It’s pretty hard, if not impossible, to look awful in a pair of sunglasses, but there are certainly pairs out there which are going to look better on you than others.
Frames
This is probably where most of us start our thinking when we’re looking for a new pair of sunglasses. There are over fifty basic frame designs, and the variations on frame shapes run into thousands, so yes, there is a lot of choice but then again that’s what makes it fun. Wayfarers are the world’s most popular design and that’s because they look great on everyone but even if you choose a classic design like the Aviator or Cat Eye, there’s so much variety available in these designs that you’ve still got a whole lot of decision making to do.
So, let’s break it down a little. You’re looking for a frame shape that fits your face, and there are plenty of sites out there that will help you with your decision. For example, if your face is oblong, most sunglasses are going to look good on you, but you need to avoid anything that’s going to make your face look longer. If your forehead is wider than your chin, round lens frames will offset the straight lines. There’s a lot more to frames than just complimenting your face shape though. Frames are a determiner of style. Micro cat eyes are slinky and sexy, outsize Aviators are glamorous. The material from which the frames are constructed is another element to consider: lightweight metal, big chunky plastic, vibrant acetate. And then there’s that all-important brand name, discretely placed at the temple tips.
Lens
You’ve settled on a frame shape, but what about the lens? How do you want to see the world, and how do you want the world to see you? Different colors will operate on your vision in different ways, but more importantly how will different lens colors go with your hair and your clothing. If impenetrable mystery is your thing, mirrored lenses will help keep the world at bay, and if you wear prescription glasses, then it makes a lot of sense to get prescription lenses for your sunglasses. There’s also a seasonal dimension: coral is a great summer color, but blue is cool for winter.
Context
Dress codes apply to sunglasses too, however much you love your over size cat eyes in brilliant green acetate, they’re not right for that business meeting on a sunny terrace or welcoming prospective clients at the airport. Choose sunglasses to compliment your outfit and to fit the context.
And finally
No matter what any number of websites may tell you, there are no hard and fast rules about looking good in sunglasses. What’s most important of all is having confidence in your personal style and enjoyment in this most versatile of all accessories. One last thing though, do make sure that they fit properly.
