Sunglasses are more than just eye protection; they are a statement of style and attitude. Men’s fashion has evolved to embrace a wide range of sunglasses styles that can elevate your look and complement your overall appearance. However, choosing the right pair can be a daunting task. Here are the sunglasses styling tips for men, helping you find the perfect shades that match your face shape, personality, and fashion sense.
Understand your face shape
One of the key factors in choosing the perfect pair of sunglasses is understanding your face shape. Different face shapes work well with specific styles of sunglasses. Here’s a breakdown of the most common face shapes and the sunglasses that complement them:
- Oval face: If you have an oval face, consider yourself lucky, as this shape can pull off most styles. Aviators, wayfarers, and round frames are all great options for you.
- Round face: To add definition to your features, choose sunglasses with angular frames, like square or rectangular shapes. Avoid round frames, as they can make your face appear rounder.
- Square face: If you have a square face with strong, angular features, opt for round or oval frames to soften your appearance. Aviators and clubmaster styles are also excellent choices.
- Heart-shaped face: Heart-shaped faces are characterized by a wider forehead and a narrower chin. Choose sunglasses with wider bottoms to balance your face shape, like wayfarers or aviators.
- Oblong face: Oblong faces are longer and narrower. To add width to your face, pick sunglasses with large, oversized frames, such as square or wayfarer styles.
Consider your skin tone
Your skin tone plays a significant role in determining the color of sunglasses that suit you best. Here’s a quick guide:
- Fair skin: If you have fair skin, lighter-colored frames, like silver, gold, or pastel shades, can be flattering. Avoid dark or black frames, as they may create a harsh contrast.
- Medium skin: Most frame colors work well with medium skin tones. Experiment with various shades and materials, but avoid frames that are too similar to your skin color, as they can blend in.
- Dark skin: Darker skin tones can carry off bold and bright frame colors. Consider sunglasses with bold colors like red, deep brown, or black for a striking contrast.
Match sunglasses to your style
Sunglasses are a great way to express your personal style. Different styles cater to various fashion preferences. Here are some popular sunglasses styles and the styles they complement:
- Aviators: Classic aviators have a timeless appeal and work well with a wide range of outfits, from casual to formal. They are perfect for a timeless, sophisticated look.
- Wayfarers: Wayfarers are versatile and suit both classic and casual styles. They offer a cool and retro vibe and can be worn with a variety of outfits.
- Clubmaster: The clubmaster style is a blend of retro and modern. It’s ideal for a stylish, intellectual appearance. They pair well with business-casual or smart-casual attire.
- Round frames: Round frames provide a bohemian, artistic feel. They work well with a casual, laid-back style, such as a t-shirt and jeans ensemble.
- Rectangular frames: Rectangular frames are bold and contemporary. They are perfect for individuals looking for a modern, edgy look and can be paired with both casual and semi-formal outfits.
- Sport sunglasses: If you have an active lifestyle, sport sunglasses with wraparound frames are designed for outdoor activities. They provide maximum eye protection and comfort during sports and outdoor adventures.
- Retro styles: If you’re into vintage fashion, you can choose from various retro styles like the cat-eye, round, or oversized frames to create a nostalgic, stylish look.
Quality matters
Investing in a high-quality pair of sunglasses is essential. Not only do they protect your eyes from harmful UV rays, but they also last longer and offer better optical clarity. Look for sunglasses with UV protection, which shields your eyes from UVA and UVB rays.
Additionally, consider polarized lenses, which reduce glare and improve visibility, making them perfect for driving or outdoor activities. Polarized lenses are especially beneficial if you spend a lot of time near water or in bright, sunny environments.
Choose the Right Lens Color
The color of your sunglasses lenses can impact how you perceive the world and how others see you. Different lens colors have distinct benefits:
- Gray lenses: Gray lenses are versatile and maintain color accuracy. They are great for reducing glare and offering true-to-life vision. They work well for all types of outdoor activities.
- Brown lenses: Brown lenses enhance contrast and are excellent for varying light conditions. They’re ideal for activities like golf or fishing.
- Green lenses: Green lenses provide excellent contrast in low-light conditions and offer a soothing effect on the eyes. They are perfect for golfers and those who spend extended periods outdoors.
- Blue lenses: Blue lenses are fashionable and can create a unique appearance. They are suitable for individuals looking for a trendy and stylish choice.
- Mirrored lenses: Mirrored lenses come in various colors and offer added glare reduction. They are perfect for those who want to make a bold fashion statement.
Maintain Your Sunglasses
To keep your sunglasses looking great and performing their best, it’s essential to maintain them. Here are some tips:
- Use a microfiber cloth to clean your lenses. Avoid using paper towels or clothing that might scratch the lenses.
- Store your sunglasses in a protective case when not in use to prevent scratches and damage.
- Avoid leaving your sunglasses in high-temperature environments, like the dashboard of your car, as extreme heat can warp the frames.
- Get your sunglasses professionally adjusted if they become loose or uncomfortable to wear.
Conclusion
Sunglasses are a powerful accessory that can instantly enhance your style and protect your eyes from harmful UV rays. By understanding your face shape, considering your skin tone, matching sunglasses to your style, investing in quality, choosing the right lens color, and maintaining your shades, you can select the perfect pair of sunglasses for every occasion.
