Mens Sunglasses

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Designer Men’s Sunglasses

Sunglasses are more than just a functional accessory; they’re an extension of your style and a crucial part of every wardrobe. With a wide range of designer options, choosing the perfect pair of sunglasses that complements your face, suits your lifestyle, and enhances your overall look can feel a little overwhelming. Here at Rackhams, we’re here to help guide you through key considerations so you can make the best choice.

Why Invest in Designer Sunglasses?

Investing in designer sunglasses is about more than just looking stylish; it’s a matter of quality, protection, and durability. High-end sunglasses offer better UV protection, superior lenses, and lasting materials. In the long run, designer frames can save you time and money, as they’re built to withstand wear and tear, while also offering a unique style that mass-market options may lack.

How Do I Choose Sunglasses for My Face Shape?

Your face shape is a big factor when selecting sunglasses. Let’s break down what styles tend to work best for different face shapes.

Square Face: Look for round or oval frames to soften angular features. Frames with curved edges add contrast to the structured lines of a square face.

Round Face: Angular frames, like rectangular or square shapes, help add definition to softer, round faces. Avoid circular frames, as they might accentuate the roundness.

Oval Face: Almost any style works well on an oval face. Experiment with both angular and curved frames to find what suits your personal taste.

Heart-Shaped Face: Opt for frames that balance the width of the forehead with the narrower chin. Bottom-heavy frames, aviators, or styles with subtle cat-eye shapes work well.

Diamond Face: Oval and rimless frames help soften the cheekbones and highlight the eyes, balancing out the natural angles of a diamond face.

What Frame Colours Work Best for Different Skin Tones?

The colour of your frames can have a big impact on how well they complement your complexion.

Cool Tones: If you have cool undertones, shades like black, silver, blue, and grey work well.

Warm Tones: Brown, gold, green, and tortoiseshell frames enhance warmer skin tones.

Neutral Tones: Lucky for you—if you have neutral undertones, you can typically wear most colours well. Feel free to explore different shades to match your outfit or mood.

Which Lens Colour is Right for Me?

Lens colour isn’t just about aesthetics; it can impact how well you see in different lighting conditions. Here’s a quick guide:

Grey Lenses: These are a versatile option, reducing glare without altering the natural colours of what you see, making them ideal for everyday wear.

Brown/Amber Lenses: Brown and amber lenses enhance contrast and depth perception, which is great for sports and outdoor activities.

Green Lenses: These lenses balance colour perception and reduce glare, making them a good all-round choice.

Blue/Yellow Lenses: These are ideal for low-light conditions and can improve contrast, but they aren’t typically recommended for bright outdoor use.

Mirrored Lenses: Mirrored lenses are excellent for high-glare situations and offer additional privacy.

What Are Polarised Lenses, and Should I Choose Them?

Polarised lenses are treated to reduce glare from reflective surfaces like water, snow, or asphalt. They’re an ideal choice for people who spend a lot of time outdoors, especially if you engage in activities like driving, boating, or skiing. If you’re frequently in bright conditions, polarised lenses can make a noticeable difference, reducing eye strain and improving visual comfort.

Which Frame Materials Are Most Durable?

The material of your sunglasses frames can affect comfort, durability, and style. Here are some of the most popular options:

Metal: Known for their sleek design and strength, metal frames are adjustable and often hypoallergenic, making them a favourite for many. However, they can be a bit heavier.

Acetate: Acetate frames are lightweight and come in various colours and patterns. They’re durable and can be moulded into many shapes, providing both comfort and style.

Titanium: Lightweight yet durable, titanium frames are ideal if you need something sturdy and hypoallergenic.

Plastic: High-quality plastic frames are affordable and come in a variety of colours. However, they may not be as durable as metal or acetate.

Should I Go for Oversized or Understated?

When it comes to sunglasses, the scale is entirely up to you. Oversized frames are bold and fashionable, creating a statement look that can work for both formal and casual settings. On the other hand, understated or smaller frames bring a subtle touch of style and may be more comfortable for everyday wear. Think about how often you’ll wear the sunglasses, your overall personal style, and what settings you’ll wear them in.

Are There Sunglasses That Suit Both Formal and Casual Looks?

Absolutely. Classic shapes like aviators, wayfarers, and round frames are versatile enough to complement both casual and formal attire. Choosing frames in neutral colours like black, brown, or tortoiseshell can also add to their versatility. Another tip is to focus on sleek, minimalistic designs that blend effortlessly with different outfits.

How Important is UV Protection?

UV protection is essential when selecting sunglasses. Designer sunglasses typically provide 100% UV protection, which is vital for protecting your eyes from harmful rays. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can lead to eye strain, cataracts, and other serious conditions. Look for sunglasses labelled with ‘UV400’, as these block both UVA and UVB rays, offering the highest level of protection.

How Can I Take Care of My Sunglasses?

To keep your sunglasses in top condition, follow these care tips:

Use a Protective Case: When not in use, store them in a hard case to avoid scratches or breaks.

Clean with a Microfibre Cloth: Use the provided microfibre cloth to keep the lenses clear. Avoid tissues or other rough materials that can scratch.

Avoid Leaving Them in Direct Heat: High temperatures, such as those in a car dashboard, can warp frames and damage lens coatings.

Use Lens Cleaner: For tough smudges, use a gentle lens cleaner rather than household cleaning products.

Any Final Tips for Choosing the Perfect Sunglasses?

Try Before You Buy: If possible, try on different shapes and styles to get a feel for what looks and feels best. Even when shopping online, check for a virtual try-on feature to visualise different styles.

Consider Your Lifestyle: Choose a pair that matches your lifestyle. If you’re frequently active outdoors, durability and polarised lenses may be key. For a more fashion-forward, everyday option, focus on unique shapes and frame colours.

Look After Your Investment: A high-quality pair of sunglasses is an investment, so taking care of them will keep them looking pristine and performing well.

With these insights in mind, you’re ready to browse Rackhams’ collection of designer men’s sunglasses and find the perfect pair to suit your style, face shape, and lifestyle. If you’re still unsure, refer to our men’s sunglasses guide or reach out to us—our team is here to help you make a confident choice!