The Three Main Styles of Sunglasses

Plastic Sport Frame Sunglasses | Metal Frame Sunglasses | Plastic Hybrid Glasses

Sunglasses are like watches.  Sure they look cool, but they actually serve a purpose.  Meaning they’re one of the few accessories the male gender can feel great about wearing.  As men we need purpose in our stuff.  When we don’t? That’s why a bracelet can look terrible on an otherwise well dressed fellow.

Picking out the right pair of sunglasses can express some serious personal style, or, it can make you look seriously bad.  Now, do you need to follow some random “match your sunglasses to your face shape” guide?  No.  Chances are you know what looks good on you, and how big or small you need to go.  Here’s your three main options in style based on occasion, and a suggestion or two for each.

Casual: Plastic Sport Frames – Hugo Boss Sunglasses – SALE $92.65 (Reg. $175)

You want these to wrap just a touch, but not too much.  Also some slightly aggressive looking lenses are a good thing.  Think skier or snowboarder who doesn’t hit the hill EVERY winter weekend… because… maybe he’s out to dinner at a nice restaurant or something.  Chunky frames, clean logos on the side, this pair from Hugo Boss are big but not too big.

Dress: Metal Frames – Banana Republic Charles – $98 | Kenneth Cole 2269SM – $45

More often than not metal frames are what normal guys reach for when they’re dressing up a notch.  Try to stay away from those pure, goofy-large aviators.  They can look too retro and your well cut suit and freshly shined shoes will quickly be nullified if you look like a Top Gun ripoff.

Plastic Hybrid Frames – Rayban New Wayfarer – $76.69 | Club Monaco 509 – SALE $49.98

These can be everything from the Updated “New” Rayban Wayfarer, (which has been softened a touch from the too-80s original style) to the Persol-like Club Monaco pair you’re seeing to the right of the Ray Bans.  It’s all about balance with these.  The rectangular but not too boxy shape gives you the perfect mix of sport and formality.  From a t-shirt to a three piece suit, these will work just fine.