Sunglasses are some of today’s hottest commodities. With celebrities and influencers promoting them as prime accessories, the global sunglasses market has seen impressive growth. For instance, in 2023 alone, international valuation was estimated to be around $23.5 billion. Starting last year until 2030, this is expected to swell further by about 5.6% annually as more people continue to buy more pairs regularly.
However, while it’s understandably fun to keep buying yourself sunnies, it’s not always the most practical. Especially if you’re buying styles that are based on fads that you’ll only outgrow anyway. So, if you’re more interested in finding sunglasses you’re likely to actually keep using in the long-term, here are some things to keep in mind:
In order for your sunglasses to provide a timelessly flattering appearance, it’s important consider your face shape. This is a good aspect to keep in mind because it doesn't change much, even over time, as it's based on your unique bone structure. If you look at retailer Sunglass Hut's guide to the best glasses for face shape, you'll see that there are five primary face shapes. This includes oval, square, round, rectangle, and triangle. While you can determine this by manually studying your face, there are also online tools that scan and do this for you. With your face shape identified, you can find sunglasses with frames that balance out your facial proportions. For instance, angular frames can add dimension to a softer round face. As a result, your shades will always look and feel harmonious on your face, even if aesthetic trends shift again.
As hinted earlier, sunglasses are a powerful fashion statement. So much so, in fact, that the style you use can help influence how people perceive you. In fact, researchers have found that people who wear sunglasses are believed to look hipper and more confident. Because they can also improve facial symmetry, especially if the aforementioned tip is observed, sunglasses can even increase attractiveness. With this in mind, it may help to think of what you want your personal image to be, not just now but in the long-term, when picking your shades. For instance, if you want to look cooler and more daring, then why not wear Ray-Bans, which pop culture has linked to these traits? If you’re not sure which sunglasses can evoke certain feelings and vibes, try looking at the public personalities you admire and take a cue from their own eyewear.
Finally, keep in mind that sunglasses are not just about fashion but also function. Consequently, if you want your shades to get a lot of mileage, you’d best choose a pair that works with your own lifestyle. Say you’re an avid traveler. Polarized Oakley sunglasses that cut out painful glare are much more practical than micro sunglasses from Roberi and Fraud, which have very little coverage. This is particularly true if you’re going to visit somewhere especially sunny like Riviera Maya. As mentioned in our travel guide for visitors, this is a sunny paradise known for its bright weather, white sand beaches, and clear waters. While this makes for a stunning escape, you do need appropriate eyewear to keep your vision clear and comfy. So, if your sunglasses are chosen with your own passions in mind, you’ll be able to integrate them into all future endeavors more easily.