Men’s Beachwear 2012: Trendy Sunglasses
There’s nothing worse than trying to enjoy a beautiful summer day at the beach after you’ve forgotten your sunglasses at home. (Just last week I went down to Santa Barbara and forgot my Ray Ban’s). Sunglasses not only make for a more comfortable/enjoyable experience, but can actually be instrumental in protecting your eyes from harmful UV rays. The fact is, however, not just any pair of sunglasses will do. Lens quality, for example, can vary dramatically from one pair of sunglasses to another, which can have a huge effect on their functionality. Choosing the right pair of sunglasses doesn’t have to be as difficult as you might think, however; it really comes down to understanding what to look for. So long as you take all of the following tips into consideration, you can ensure that the sunglasses you choose will not only protect your eyes, but make you look good in the process.
UV Protection is a Must
Most people who set out to purchase a pair of sunglasses set their sights on the frame, which makes sense given the fact that sunglasses are often viewed as accessories. This being said, the first thing you should really be looking at is UV protection. UV light can dramatically damage the eyes, and spending a lot of time outside in the sun can increase the chances of this happening by quite a bit. Ideally, you should look for lenses that feature 99% protection against both UVA and UVB rays. This can be difficult to find in low-end sunglasses, but most quality pairs will feature UV protection and often advertise it somewhere on the frame, or with a sticker on the lens. If you don’t see any claims regarding UV protection, it’s best to move on to a different pair of sunglasses.
Frame Style and Color
Sunglasses can be made out of a variety of different materials and are available in many different styles/colors, which can make choosing the right frame rather difficult. The best things to look for in a frame are quality of construction and a streamlined, modern appearance. Many frames incorporate base metals, for example, while others are made from plastic. Generally speaking, metal frame sunglasses are more fashionable while the plastic counterparts are more “sporty”. Pick a style that suits your lifestyle and look.
The size of the frames can have a big impact on your appearance as well; small frames can actually be thinning and add balance to one’s appearance. Perhaps most importantly, however, is to ensure that the color of your sunglasses meets your specifications. Neutrals like black and silver are best; avoid colored frames unless you are going for the “cool surfer dude that is in his early 20s look”.
Last but not least, pick a lens shape that compliments your face. The goal here is to mimic your face shape. Men with bigger and roundish faces for instance would be better off wearing aviators.
Wearing Sunglasses Effectively
Sunglasses are easy to pull off, but should be reserved for outdoor wear only. The “indoor sunnies” trend has certainly made a handful of people look a bit ridiculous, and should be avoided whenever possible. Try pairing your sunglasses with shorts, sandals and a clean Polo for a preppy, all-around perfect summer look that will surely turn heads.
Other Beachwear Articles:
Mens Swimsuit Fashion 2012
Guide to Stylish Summer Beach Sandals
Your Mens-Ties.com Team