50 shades of… shades to help embrace summer

In celebration of the latest raunchy instalment of E. L. James’ sex-crazed franchise (only joking, we just thought it was a cool title!) here’s our list of (not quite 50) pre-summer styles of shades to look smoking in the heat…

The parka’s soon to be ditched in favour of the pretty dress and the beanie swapped for that cool straw hat, but now it’s time to hunt down the ultimate fashion must-have accessory in time for summer – that elusive pair of sunglasses. Many people think they don’t suit sunnies, but there really is a style for every face-shape.

Don’t believe us? For inspiration, find a friend with a face-shape similar to yours and check out what sunglasses they’re wearing.

In the meantime, here’s a good rule of thumb to follow:

Oval face shades

Butterfly or cat-eye frames are flattering and draw the eye upwards.

Square face shades

The oval or pilot/Aviator style can showcase a chiselled jaw.

Round face shades

It makes sense that the opposite is true if you have a rounder face, as a square frame will add definition.

Heart-shaped face shades

A round or semi-rimless style can add a touch of vintage-inspired chic.

And hey, if you already consider yourself a connoisseur, there are so many ways to really make an outfit stand out with the many varieties of wacky styles! Invest in some vintage sixties Chanel and feel like Audrey Hepburn or get some adorned with jewels and pearls circa the seventies à la Elton John or Dame Edna.

Of course, just like your skin you also need to protect your eyes from the summer sun. Getting the correct UV protection is important and you should try to choose ones that offer 99% or 100% protection. That way, whether you’re wearing them to help with that hangover or for some serious sunbathing, your eyes will thank you for it.

When choosing, you should also consider these options to help you get the very best from your shades:

Blue-blocking lenses

Can make distant objects easier to see, especially in low light and are generally tinted a cool amber colour.

Polarized lenses

These can be handy to reduce glare but don’t always offer UV protection.

Photochromic lenses

Help to reduce glare and help maintain clarity, however, again, don’t always give UV protection.

Polycarbonate lenses

Useful if you’re a bit clumsy! These offer some protection from impact injuries that may be sustained during physical activities.