Summer weather is still here for a little while longer, meaning we can still head to the beach and, more importantly, walk around town with the sunshine still making an appearance. But whether it’s summer or the dead of winter, the essential accessory every man needs is a good pair of shades to get him through the day.
As we know, though, not all sunglasses are created equal. Depending on your look, the shape of your face, and a few other intricate details, there are guidelines you should follow to ensure you don’t look like a doofus and waste your hard-earned money.
So here they are; 10 simple rules for finding the right pair of shades:
1. Indoors Or At Night?
If you’re not wearing your shades outside in the daytime, you’ve probably got about a 30-second window before everyone around you discovers that you’re a massive tool. So, no.
2. Size Matters
Big glasses make a statement, but strike a balance between your style and what you can pull off. Otherwise you’ll look like The Fly.
3. Perv Check
Covertly checking the ladies out is one of the great joys of summer. But double-check the opacity of your eyewear beforehand.
4. Round Face
Is your face round? Don square frames to angulate your features. Square shaped? Circular is your friend. Long face and strong jaw? Aviators. Wayfarers look good on almost everybody.
5. Mirrored Lenses
It’s disconcerting talking to someone in mirrored specs only to see your own mug staring back. Go dark, not reflective.
6. Match Glasses And Clothes
Match the color of your frames with your shoes; keep it subtle and you’ll look like money.
7. On Top Of Your Head?
A proper opinion divider. If you’re wearing them as some sort of weird, posy UV protecting tiara, then no. If it’s because you don’t own pockets, yes.
8. Upside Down?
Don’t ever wear your glasses upside down, you’ll look like a crazy person.
9. On Trend
Retro, as opposed to the techy ’90s styles, are always a safe bet. Tortoiseshell is a winner, as are smaller frames.
10. Maintain Them
Invest in a good pair of shades and don’t ditch them. You’re pretty much guaranteed that the style will come around every 10 years or so, so it’s good to play the long game.
