Whether you’re hitting the beach, scaling a mountain, or simply enjoying a sunny day in the city, a stylish pair of sunglasses is a game-changer. It’s not just about making a fashion statement. Sunglasses protect your eyes from harmful UV rays, reduce glare, and help to prevent eye strain.
But shopping for sunglasses isn’t as simple as picking up the slickest shades. This guide will walk you through 9 essential tips to help you find that perfect pair.
So let’s dive in and turn your sunglass hunt into a fun, fulfilling endeavor!
1. Know Your Face Shape
Just like different styles of clothing flatter different body shapes, there are certain sunglasses for your face shape. While you should feel free to experiment with various styles, here are some general guidelines on which :
Round faces are characterized by soft, circular features. The face width and length are almost equal. To complement this shape, opt for angular sunglasses, like these rectangular Ascent aviators. These add more definition to your face by creating a stunning contrast with the existing roundness.
Square faces are recognized by their strong jawline, broad forehead, and wide cheekbones. For this face shape, the length and width also have a similar dimension. Go for frames that soften your sharp features, such as round or oval sunglasses. They help balance the angles and bring a sense of proportion to your face.
Oval faces have a balanced forehead, cheekbones, and jawline. The face length is typically longer than the width. Lucky for you, most sunglass styles will flatter your face. However, to maintain this natural balance, choose frames that are as wide as or wider than the broadest part of your face.
Heart-shaped faces are wider at the forehead and gradually narrow down to the chin. Think of it as a mix of oval and square. Frames that are wider at the bottom, such as aviator sunglasses or soft, round shapes, balance the width of the forehead with the narrow chin.
2. Consider Your Skin Tone
Skin tones play a significant role in determining the right color scheme for your sunglasses. They are usually categorized into three types: warm, cool, and neutral.
Warm skin tones have a golden or apricot undertone. People with this skin tone are often complemented by gold jewelry. The earthy hues like browns, golds, and tortoiseshell glasses will work wonders with your warm skin tone. They bring out the warmth of your complexion, creating an overall harmonious look.
For a pop of color, consider frames in red, orange, or even peach. These colors can add a vibrant touch without clashing with your natural undertones.
Cool skin tones feature pink or blue undertones. Silver jewelry often enhances this skin tone best. When it comes to shades, cool-toned skin is flattered by frames in silver, black, gray, or clear. These colors provide a crisp contrast, making your features stand out.
For a pop of color, try pastels or jewel-toned frames such as amethyst or sapphire. They add an intriguing element to your look without overshadowing your natural complexion.
Neutral skin tones have a balance of both warm and cool undertones. This allows you to play with various color schemes, from earthy tones to bright hues. Consider yourself lucky as you have a wide range of options available to you! Just make sure the color complements your overall outfit and personal style.
3. Pay Attention to Frame Size
A common mistake people make when looking for sunglasses is not paying attention to the frame size. Frames that are too small or too large for your face can throw off the proportions and look unflattering. As a general rule, your frames should be slightly wider than your face but not too wide that they extend beyond your temples.
4. Think About Your Lifestyle
Are you someone who loves to hit the beach or spend hours reading in the park? Or do you prefer indoor activities like watching movies or attending concerts? Your lifestyle can play a role in determining the type of sunglasses that will best suit your needs. For example, if you’re active, look for durable and lightweight frames that won’t easily slip off during physical activities.
5. Don’t Forget About UV Protection
While style is essential when it comes to sunglasses, don’t forget about their primary function: protecting your eyes from UV rays. Look for lenses that offer 100% UV protection to ensure your eyes are shielded from harmful rays. This is especially important if you’re getting prescription glasses because you’re likely going to wear them for a long time.
6. Check the Quality of the Lenses
When shopping for the perfect pair of sunglasses, it’s crucial to inspect the quality of the lenses. Make sure the lenses are clear and free from distortions or imperfections. Poor-quality lenses can affect your vision, causing discomfort and eye strain.
Also, consider the material of the lens. Plastic lenses are lighter but more prone to scratching, whereas glass lenses are heavier but offer superior clarity.
7. Choose the Right Lens Color
Lens color can impact how much light is transmitted and affect contrast. Gray lenses are great for reducing glare, while brown or amber lenses enhance depth perception. For low-light conditions, yellow or orange lenses can help brighten your vision.
8. Consider Polarized Lenses
Polarized lenses are a popular choice for those who spend a lot of time outdoors. They reduce glare and can improve visibility in sunny conditions. However, keep in mind that polarized lenses may make it difficult to read digital screens or see color variations.
9. Try Before You Buy
It’s tempting to order sunglasses online, but it’s always best to try them on before making a purchase. This should be the case, especially if you’re buying expensive branded sunglasses. You want your sunglasses to fit comfortably and securely, so trying them on will ensure they’re the right size and shape for your face.
Have Fun While Shopping for Sunglasses
Shopping for sunglasses can be a fun and rewarding experience if you keep these 9 tips in mind. Remember, finding the perfect pair is not just about style but also about comfort, fit, and protection.
So take your time, try out different styles, sizes, and lens colors, and most importantly, have fun in the process. After all, the best sunglasses are the ones that make you feel confident and ready to take on the world. Happy sunglasses shopping!
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