Selecting Sunglasses
Smart Solutions : Episode SSL-720 -- More Projects »
Optician Michael Sparks shares his expertise on selecting sunglasses.
- A diamond-shaped face (figure A) is weighted in the cheeks and is refined with a modified cat-eye frame. This is a clean and simple frame reminiscent of the '60s. The shape of the frame follows the brow line and cheekbones. The modified cat-eye also complements a square face.
With a triangle-shaped face (figure B), you want to bring some of the weight of the face back to the top of the head. The "mocha wrap" achieves balance in this face. The frame and lenses are dark and give the appearance of one continuous piece of plastic while creating a look of elegance and an air of mystery. The thicker sides also offer good sun protection.
A pear-shaped face (figure C) is refined with wider frames that balance the cheeks. These are titanium rimless sunglasses that are lightweight and durable and the polycarbonate lenses are shadow resistant. The amber color offers good sun protection and also compliments the model's skin and hair. Colors of Lenses
- Rose-colored glasses are best for overcast or "nonconditional" days.
- Blue lenses are great for overcast days. They can also be worn at night because they don't filter out light, but as long as they've got 99.9 percent UV protections, they still protect your eyes.
- Brown lenses are polarized and block light. They are best for bright, sunny days and are great to wear while skiing or fishing. Polarized lenses also come in green and gray and are more expensive than nonpolarized sunglasses.
Shopping Tips
- When choosing sunglasses, check the label for the UV protection level. Don't buy them if it's less than 99.9 percent.
- Hold sunglasses up to the light and turn them while looking through the lenses. If the lenses are wavy, don't buy the glasses.
Guests Michael Sparks
Optician / Designer
459 N. Canon Dr.
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
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