A celebrity staple since the days when Jackie O wore her oversized shades, sunglasses are now a wardrobe mainstay for the masses.
Though you might be tempted to pick up a cheap pair of plastic glasses from the drugstore on your way to the beach, Hala Seblani, eye clinic manager at North Vancouver’s Hollyburn Eye Clinic, says it’s imperative to spend time, and a bit more money, selecting a pair of high-quality shades.
With cheaper sunglasses, the “UV 400 coating is actually sprayed on. Once that is scratched off, the eyes are no longer being protected, and eye sunburns are most likely to occur,” she explains. Higher-end lenses are made using a formulated dipping process, which restricts the coating from easily scratching off. This is followed by layers of an anti-scratch glaze, which adds even more protection.
Good lenses tend to have better UV protection, too. To “protect the eyes and eyelids from disease such as cancer, look for shades adorned with a UV400 label and that block 90 to 100 per cent of UVA, UVB and UVC rays,” advises Seblani.
Fit is also a factor to consider when it comes to sun defense.
“A pair that fits properly will minimize the amount of UV that enters from the top, and they will be less likely to fall off, easily stretch, and be uncomfortable,” she says.
Polarization, which helps to show true colours while providing a clear and crisp view, is also essential when it comes to cutting out glare, which can stream through from different angles, bouncing off of cement, snow and water and into your sight line.
And although you may think style is purely an esthetic consideration, it’s actually up there with items such as UV protection since, as Seblani puts it, “liking your glasses will ensure that you will wear them, (in turn) protecting your eyes.”
For spring/summer 2017, double bridge sunglasses have been big, with the edgy looks seen on runways at Céline, Tom Ford and Prada. Coloured mirrored lenses with an ‘80s vibe are also making a comeback, as are vintage round shapes, like the shades worn by Diane Keaton in Annie Hall. And the statement-making bold sunglasses with thick, dark frames are no longer only worn by fashion bloggers; there are now seen as a wearable, classic style.
So you’ve scored the perfect pair of shades that protect from UV and make you look and feel like a rockstar. Next challenge: not losing them! For those with a tendency to misplace their shades, Seblani has a few words of advice.
“Make it a habit of storing them in their cases (right after taking them off),”—and then always keep that case in your car or purse.
Still don’t trust yourself? You can always go the “around-the-neck chain holder” route. With a variety of chain styles on the market, you might even find one as beautiful as your new shades.
