Theater senior Marla Carter displays her favorite pair of sunglasses, which were purchased, fittingly, in Huntington Beach, California. Like many current sunglasses enthusiasts, Carter prefers bigger shades over smaller.
In the world of style, accessories are key. Yes, one can look good under typical circumstances with just an outfit. However, with the aid of accessories, someone’s style truly can be defined.
With spring break beginning, the opportunity to accessorize with sunglasses is proving an excellent trend.
“I like them to fit my face well and to match my outfits,” political science and philosophy senior Kate McQueen said.
Notable designers such as Christian Dior, Dolce & Gabbana and Marc Jacobs have been designing sunglasses for years.
Lately, these designers tend to follow common themes. For women, large lenses are in fashion, while men’s glasses are taking shape in the form of sporty, sleek frames.
The appeal behind the chic creations of these designers heightens the allure of a person’s fashion, although it comes with a hefty price tag.
A set of Christian Dior sunglasses can set you back around $200 at the least. Dolce & Gabbana have a relatively lower fee. A set of authentic shades can be found at around $100.
“Sometimes, I would say that if it came between eating or a pair of sunglasses, I would go with the sunglasses,” McQueen said.
For those who aren’t willing to splurge on a designer pair, the world of outlet malls and lower key designers open the door to style without damaging the contents of your wallet. The creations of Anne Klein, Coach and Guess can be in your hands for reasonable prices by traveling as close to Tanger Outlets in Howell.
Department stores also offer a wide variety of shades to accent nearly anyone’s style for as low as $20. Although they may not be as prestigious as the big-ticket designer pairs, they can be made stylish under any means.
“I don’t go for the latest style, but I do go for my style,” theater senior Marla Carter said. “I look for something to fit my face well.”
Carter said she looked toward the smaller stores when she was shopping for her current shades.
“I just got them in a little boutique in Huntington Beach, California,” she said. “I’ve had them for a couple years. They’re pretty sturdy.”
Aside from style, sunglasses provide utility for the wearer — after all, they were invented for eye protection.
“I’m light sensitive, so sunglasses help,” McQueen said.
McQueen’s love for her Betsey Johnson sunglasses doesn’t just stop at style. Her glasses supply functionality that aids her college-student lifestyle.
“If you’re a college student like myself, running on two hours of sleep, you can mask the lack of sleep,” she said.
When searching for sunglasses, make sure that the sunglasses are made for 100 percent UVA and UVB protection.
Whether for covering up or standing out, sunglasses add a finishing touch to an ensemble and make the warmth of summer seem not so far away.
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