Your Guide to the Perfect Summer Sunglasses: Tips & Trends 2023

With the sun shining high, it's necessary to protect your eyes with a trusted pair of sunglasses. After all, apart from being a fashionable accessory, studies have shown that wearing sunglasses can prevent eye strain, headaches, and certain cancers. However, with all the glasses on the market, finding the perfect pair for your summer can be daunting. That said, read on to learn how to find your ideal sunglasses.

Consider your vision needs

A strong point to consider in getting sunglasses is your vision needs. Having fun under the sun is less enjoyable if your vision isn't crystal-clear, which can lead to potential accidents and injuries. To avoid this scenario, consider using prescription sunglasses from established brands that specialize in sun protection. These sunglasses come with a wide array of helpful features, such as enhanced fields of view, customized prescription lenses, and premium filters to enhance your visual experience. If you’re an active person, prescription sunglasses made for certain sports, like Oakley’s Plazma for hardcore cyclists, can provide maximum visual clarity and high-impact resistance while still protecting your eyes from the sun.

Another option to look out for is sports performance glasses. These are thoughtfully designed to fit snugly on the face during sports activities. They also feature polarized lenses with 100% UV protection, shielding the eyes from sun exposure, harsh glares, and migraine-inducing reflections. For instance, if you do road and trail running, a classic pair with enhanced contrast and polarized lenses, like Rudy Project Propulse, will do the trick.

Pick the perfect frame fit for your face

Remember, one size doesn't fit all when it comes to sunglasses. Assess your face shape before you select the right frame. If you have an angular face with a strong jawline, go for round or oval frames for a softer balance. On the other hand, round-faced folks should try out square or rectangular frames to add definition.

However, if you’re unsure of your facial structure, you might be in the heart-shaped or oblong shape club. This means wider foreheads and narrower chins, which can rock classic cat-eye or aviator styles. Brands like Ray-Ban are known for their aviators, which have become popular thanks to military and pop culture relevance. Lastly, for those with oval faces, most frame shapes will work well. This means you can even experiment with more eccentric frames, like the Balenciaga Xpanders, that showcase an "alien-eye" silhouette.

Look for stylish and comfortable materials

Material matters when it comes to purchasing sunglasses. For a lightweight and durable option, look for acetate frames. Introduced in the 1940s, these are not only comfortable to wear for long periods but are also known for their eco-friendliness. Reputable eyewear brands, like Oakley, Ray-Ban, and Wiley X, are known for innovating acetate and its alternative, bio-acetate, in their sustainable eyewear collections. Another option is metal frames, like those made from titanium or stainless steel. These are classic and sleek and often have adjustable nose pads for a snug fit. For instance, eyewear brand Aspen has released slim metal frames in retro-inspired fashions to emulate timeless styles.

Finding the perfect pair of sunglasses doesn't have to compromise your style or comfort. From protecting your vision to complementing your wardrobe essentials, this guide will help you make the right choice.