10 things about sunglasses

Sunglasses are fashionable, and every urban professional has to have a pair. Of course, it’s easy enough to pick ‘em when they look good on you, but truth be told, that’s not the best way to pick sunglasses. Quality designer sunglasses could be a considerable investment, so do consider these factors before you shell out your hard-earned cash for a pair:

1. Get a pair that offers good sun protection. You can usually tell with the telltale sticker on the lens that says UV-A or UV-B. This means ultraviolet A or B, respectively. These wavelengths of light can be damaging to the eyes, so choose sunglasses that will totally block them 100%. Also, go for lenses that are large enough to fully cover your retinas for better protection.

2. Determine your needs to figure out if you need polarized lenses or not. Glare is considerably decreased with polarized lenses because they’re designed to filter defracted light waves. Go for polarized lenses if you’re going to be spending a lot of time outdoors.

3. Go for dark glasses. These will relieve the strain on your eyes, especially when light is reflected on white sand or snow, magnifying the brightness. Long term exposure to very bright light leads to a temporary but very painful form of blindness, so make sure your designer sunglasses can block a lot of light.

4. Choose impact-resistant glass lenses. These will help you avoid severe eye injuries if your lens shatter. You can also opt for plastic lenses.

5. Pick the right color. This isn’t because you need to make a fashion statement, but rather, you don’t want to affect your ability to distinguish colors. Eye safety organizations recommend brown, amber, green, or gray lenses.

6. Check its weight. Wearing heavy sunglasses could be uncomfortable, so if you don’t want to put a strain on your face, go for lightweight pairs.

7. Make sure it fits you. Your sunglasses should fit perfectly. Pick a pair that’s too small and it’ll pinch your head. On the other hand, pick one that’s too big and it’ll only keep dropping off. Try them on for a few minutes before you decide.

8. Choose a pair that suits the shape of your face. Naturally, it should flatter your face’s shape, not make you look strangely distorted. For square faces, rounded frames are ideal. Similarly, round faces look good with square frames. Aviator glasses complement just about any face shape, especially oval. Rectangular frames are ideal for heart-shaped faces.

9. Go for unique frames that suit you. Your sunglasses should reflect your personal style. Don’t just go for the current trends. Rather, look for one that suits you best and make it your trademark. Classic, oversized frames look good with any outfit, and vintage aviator sunglasses are timeless. With the countless different styles available, don’t be too hasty and keep trying on pairs until you find that perfect one.

10. Don’t sacrifice quality for price. Designer sunglasses can be expensive, but they’re worth every penny. With sunglasses, you’ll get what you pay for, so if you want a high quality pair that looks good, prepare to make the investment.