Shades are the ultimate signal that warm, sunny weather has finally arrived. The fashion for oversized sunglasses and aviator frames marches on this year, joined by wraparound and cats’ eye styles. Traditionally, it is believed that round faces suit angular glasses, while oval faces are flattered by wider frames and square faces by round ones. However, the secret lies in creating contrast and equilibrium between facial characteristics. Understanding what looks best on your face shape is the formula to perfecting style, be it in attire or eyewear.
Not only are sunglasses fabulous for shielding eyes from summer’s UV rays, but they also double as a camouflage for weary eyes or those makeup-free days when you need to dash out without the fuss of mascara and eyeliner application. Some eyewear designs have recently made waves on the runway with their distinctive biker, sporty, tinted, visor and even ornately decorated with pearls and crystals styles.
Forever fans of oversized shades are Victoria Beckham and Anna Wintour who have been spotted wearing them day and night. Wintour dons Chanel, while Beckham’s choice frames come in a variety of colours like tortoiseshell, brown horn, black, grey, or khaki, but with a notable price tag exceeding €300. Chanel’s cat eyes, squares, or rectangles or Dior’s current purple to pink squares bare even higher costs.
Photographer and filmmaker Conor Horgan has a penchant for the Danish brand Lindberg’s ultralight, handmade sunglasses. The brand, founded in 1986 by architect Henrik Lindberg and his optometrist father, Paul Jorn Lindberg, draws inspiration from the world of architectural design. Horgan’s shades have sparked conversations, one observer even thought he spotted Horgan in a San Francisco cafe only to realise it was Liam Cunningham, a fellow Lindberg wearer. Reflecting on the remarkable mix-up, Horgan noted, “I think it’s because we were both young punks in the late ’70s.”
Sonya Lennon is renowned for her large specs which have become a signature aspect of her style. Her eyewear collection boasts numerous items, with pieces from Specsavers and a variety of vintage designs included. “Considering frames as a chance for prescription lenses changes the entire perception of mainstream eyewear. I fancy a subtle graduated tint as it adds depth and serves a similar function to makeup,” she states. Television host of Bake Off, Prue Leith, once confessed that she matches her outfits to her specs, choosing her glasses before her clothes.
Everamber, an Irish brand, delivers high-quality “performance” sunglasses for athletes including runners and cyclists. The ‘running’ glasses of this range are defined by their lightweight frames and anti-fog nylon lenses. Delicate specs designed in soft faded browns or graduated greys are ideal for wintertime. These eyeglasses offer both UV protection and a barrier against harsh weather conditions, effectively saving the eyes from dryness or watering. Dedicated polarized lenses are attractive to individuals engaged in sailing or fishing, who often invest in a standard pair of UV sunglasses for daily use.
When it comes to eye protection, as explained by distinguished American ophthalmologist Ashley Behrens, of the Wilmer Eye Institute, if the glasses guarantee 95-100% UV protection, one is considered secure. Behrens endorses the use of sunglasses outdoors throughout the year, noting that extended exposure to UV light is responsible for approximately 20% of cataracts. UV isn’t linked to sunlight, but rather the glare, which one can be exposed to even on overcast days. The CE marking on glasses is an assurance of the European safety standards being met.
Sunglasses, as small as they may be, can serve as a powerful and impactful accessory at a fraction of the price of a high-end bag.