Along with sunscreen and wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses are a staple accessory for those who enjoy being outdoors and are conscious of their health. Whether it’s winter or summer, sunglasses can help protect your eyes against UV rays.
Matching frame shapes to face shapes is a classic way to style sunglasses, but in reality, there are no rules! Rather, we invite you to explore what modern brands have to offer in terms of style and aesthetics. The benefit of shopping in-person is that you can try frames on and get a comprehensive eye exam and professional advice while you’re at it. If you’re unsure which sunglasses best suit your face shape, visit us for a personalized consultation with our opticians, and we’ll help you find the perfect fit!
Why Wear Sunglasses?
Sunglasses aren’t just for the fashion-conscious. They also play a role in protecting your eye health. UV radiation from the sun can be harmful to your eyes, leading to conditions like sunburn on the front or back of the eye, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), cataracts, abnormal growths, and even cancer.
Need a more objective take on picking the right sunglasses? Here are some helpful tips from the Canadian Association of Optometrists (CAO) to guide you:
- Note that a darker tint does not necessarily mean better protection. Instead, look for sunglasses that block 99–100% of UVA and UVB radiation.
- The larger the frames, the more area the sunglasses protect.
- Polarized lenses can help filter out glare. This can be helpful for driving, snow sports, and water sports.
- The colour of your lenses can influence vision. For example, grey tints generally provide better colour vision, but brown tints tend to offer better depth perception and contrast.
- Inspect your lenses before you buy them. Check for damage, irregularities, and that both lenses are the same colour. Make sure your vision is not distorted when you wear your new sunglasses.
If you have questions about sun protection or want to double-check that the sunglasses you have your eyes set on offer adequate protection, talk to your optometrist.
Frames & Face Shape
Many people wonder what frame shape suits the natural shape of their face. This is a solid place to start if you want to narrow down your sunglasses options, but no rule is set in stone. Feel free to explore and try on a variety of sunglasses.
- Round: If you have a round face, try angular or square-shaped frames that balance out the natural curves of your face. Smaller, rounder frames may accentuate the roundness.
- Square: Similarly, folks with squarer faces can explore softer, rounder frames. Meanwhile, square frames can make the face look larger.
- Oval: Oval faces can work with virtually any shape of frame, so explore everything your optician has to offer! However, very large frames can interfere with your face’s natural symmetry.
- Heart-shaped: You can balance out a heart-shaped face with frames that are slightly larger at the bottom. Meanwhile, frames with designs on the top can draw attention to your forehead.
- Long and narrow: Large, oversized frames can balance out this face shape. Meanwhile, small frames may accentuate the narrow shape.
Styles & Brands
Another thing to consider when shopping for sunglasses is aesthetic. There is a near-limitless variety of styles available, from vintage and luxury to sporty and bold. Consider your wardrobe and personality, and find sunglasses that fit your vibe.
The following is general information about some popular brands. But be sure to talk to your optometrist to check that the sunglasses you want to buy offer adequate UV protection.
Classic & Sophisticated
Brands like Barton Perreira, which sells frames hand-crafted in Japan, offer a vintage-inspired, sophisticated look in acetate, titanium, and mixed materials. Meanwhile, classic brands like Ray-Ban offer timeless, classic designs (such as their iconic aviators) that can be worn for all sorts of occasions. For those looking for a more luxurious look, explore brands like Tom Ford and DITA. These brands strive to combine modern, sophisticated designs with quality craftsmanship.
Bold & Playful
Do you associate sunglasses with fun in the sun? Try a bolder and more playful aesthetic through sunglasses offered by Jacques Marie Mage. This brand offers quirky, eye-catching designs, including unexpected pastel frames, that make eye protection a fashion statement.
Sporty
Brands like Maui Jim offer colourful, sporty designs inspired by life in the Hawaiian sun. Meanwhile, classic brands like Oakley (perhaps best known as snow sport goggle makers) offer strikingly shaped frames based on a design philosophy called sculptural physics.
Protect Your Eyes in Style
Sunglasses aren’t just about style, though having an extra fashion accessory to express yourself with is a plus. Sunglasses with adequate UV protection can help prevent eye damage associated with radiation from the sun, allowing you to stay active and social outdoors. They can also make seeing, driving, and doing sports outside more comfortable.
Want expert advice on sunglasses? Stop by West 10th Eyes to shop for sunglasses in Vancouver. Try on a pair and see how they look and feel, and don’t hesitate to ask our optometrists for advice on UV protection.
Regular comprehensive eye exams are important for maintaining your eye health, so if you want to book yours along with your shopping trip, contact us today.
