The search for the perfect sun accessory

Roughly around a minor percentage of the general public, which is presumably composed of the local stylish population, can pull off wearing any random pair of sunglasses (out of the variety that number in the hundreds) available in the market and still maintain style credibility. But, for the rest of us, we can dare, fumble and learn yet still find ourselves lost in the search for the perfect sun accessory.

The question that must be asked is: Is it really necessary? Practical reasons include protection against damage caused by the sun’s UV rays or discomfort from the brightness of sunlight. Eye protection is a reason that’s solid enough to support the search. Yes, there are medical experts that do advise us on the importance of wearing them.

For the irrepressible stylish folk, it can’t be helped that this becomes a fashion piece that ought to be worn with distinct panache. It is no longer limited to the glorious sun-drenched, sandy beaches. It is now seen on street fashionistas and fashion-savvy public as they go about the everyday hustle-and-bustle in the city.

Whatever drives you to wear a pair of sunglasses (to celebrate individualism or, perhaps, to hide from paparazzi) you choose your own poison: feminine casual, vintage bohemian, high fashion or alternative chic.

Unleash the inner rockstar and wear the classic aviators.

I’m sticking with what I had told my readers in Style Manila. “I happen to think that it’s an item that every rockstar should own.” It’s one of the hippest pair of sunglasses to hit the face of the earth.

Go for a subtle Jackie O look with a vintage-inspired oversized pair.

When I started wearing oversized sunglasses back in 2005, the sort of feedback I had received were endless teasing which basically boiled down to one statement, “You look like a bug.” Ah, well. What’s really laughable is hearing her say, while pushing the pair up the bridge of her nose, “These are so Jackie O!” Classic.

Embrace the 80s and sport the cool wayfarers.

Though I’m more of a 90s kid, I had been aware of most of the style trends throughout the 80s. I was too young to really appreciate the scene in Risky Business with Tom Cruise (who was just dressed in a white dress shirt, underwear and socks) sliding across the floor looking all ultra cool and sexy in a pair of wayfarers but I remember it well! This pair has been a personal favorite.

Opt for a fun pair that works well with your personality

It doesn’t have to be all serious when it comes to this piece of fashion accessory. You’re entitled to wear whatever catches your fancy! Go ahead and wear a pair with dainty and feminine details, off-beat colors, or out-of-this-world shapes and sizes.

Choose the pair that will complement your personal style (your personality, really) and just have fun with it. The more you’re comfortable with the pair of sunglasses you have on, the higher the chance you’ll look good while wearing it.

If all else fails, put on a pair of sunglasses

The old style adage says that if all else fails, put on a pair of sunglasses and, over the years, I’ve learned this to be true. For days when you simply can’t be bothered with makeup or no amount of it can hide the strain and exhaustion, a pair acts short of a savior. It covers a multitude of sins.