Stylish Sunglasses

By Helen Lee

Nothing's more necessary during the summer than a good pair of sunglasses. They protect your eyes from sun damage, give you a glamorous movie star look, and even make chic hairbands. Get the lowdown on summer's must-have accessory!

Style + Function

Did you know that every day, your eyes use about the same amount of energy your legs would use if you walked 50 miles? Add the harsh glare of the sun to that and your eyes will get strained pretty fast! That's why it's so important to wear sunglasses - but not just any kind. A good pair has lenses that block 99% of harmful ultraviolet rays - and you're not going to get that kind of protection with the $20 pair you picked up at the drugstore. Sure, they may be cheap and stylish, but you need sunglasses that combine style with eye protection. A good pair may cost a bit of dough (at least $100), but the combination of your allowance, an after-school job and begging should help you out.

The Right Styles

While oversized shades continue to be one of the hottest styles of the moment, Ray-Ban Wayfarers have made a huge comeback from the '80s. Seen on every celebrity you can name, including Zac Efron, Vanessa Hudgens, the Jonas Brothers and Ashlee Simpson, Wayfarers are totally funky cuz they come in a selection of fun pop colors! So forget basic blacks, ditch the boring browns and go for red, yellow, white, or turquoise.

The Right Fit

Picking out a flattering pair of sunglasses isn't as easy as it looks. So keep this rule of thumb in mind when you go shade shopping - the frame shape should be the opposite of your face shape!

If you have a round face, choose rectangular frames that'll make your face appear longer and thinner.

If you have a heart-shaped face, then rimless styles are perfect for you.

If you have a square face, go for a round, oval, or cat's eye design, which will reduce your sharp angles.

If you have a rectangular face, pick square or round shapes like the ones John Lennon made famous cuz they'll shorten a long face.

If you have an oval face, well then lucky for you cuz any style works!

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