Allyson Rhoads & Katie Brown

Dragon Fame Sunglasses

Over the course of the past couple decades, sunglasses have evolved from an accessory of necessity to a stand-alone wardrobe  must-have.  Don’t get me wrong, shades have also evolved in their functionality, to serve as protection for those beautiful little peepers of yours.  Companies like Hoven, Von Zipper, Electric, Dragon and Raen have advanced their technology to adjust to our changing environment and dangerous UV rays.  But, in addition to choosing your lens type, protection level and frame material, now  you can choose your activity level and, perhaps of the utmost importance, the shape and style that suits you. So, with all these choices, how do you know which shades are right for you.  Well, it’s a combination of your face shape, activity level and what you want from your glasses.  So, the ahlivv ladies have put together the ultimate Sunglasses Guide, to find the perfect match for you.

What Shape Is Your Face?
Oval Shape	Heart Shape	Round Shape	Square Shape	Oblong Shape
Description
Oval faces are ideal for sunglasses. If your jawline is slightly narrower than your forehead, you are an oval face.	Heart shaped faces are wider at cheek bones and narrows to a smaller chin.	Round faces are symetrical,and they are as long as they are wide, with soft features.	If the width of your cheeks is consistent with your forehead and chin, you have a square face.	Oblong faces generally have a longer face with a larger nose.
Who Shares This Face Shape
celebrityinsider-photosnews.blogspot.com	http://celeb9.com	www.dailymakeover.com	www.graphicshunt .com	www.peoplestylewatch .com
Ideal Sunglass Shape
Almost any style, traditional or bold, works for an oval face. The best shapes are oval, butterfly, square.	Rimless, aviator style, lighter colors, and wider bottom frames work best for heart shaped faces. Avoid oversized lenses.	Gradient lens, semi rimless, rectangles and octogans are ideal, for round faces. Darker and more traditional colors help to soften your face.	Rounded shapes like the Jackie O inspired styles work best for a square face. Wrap and sporty styles also work, but avoid sharp and angular styles	Oversized and retro shapes work well for oblong faces. Bright colors, odd shapes, and embellished designs are most flattering.
Suggested Fashion Styles
Electric Velveteen, Hoven Monaco, Dragon GG	Von zipper Skitch, Electric Bullit, Hoven Victoria	Hoven 5th Ave, Electric OHM Ii , Electric Bibidahl	R A E N Saise, Electric BSG, Dragon Calavera	Dragon Phase, Hoven Big Risky, Von Zipper Alotta
Suggested Active Styles
Electric Gauge	Hoven Baron	Electric Vol	Dragon Calaca	Hoven Socialite

Decoding the Terms

You’ll also notice, when shopping for sunnies, lots of ‘techy’ words, which is sometimes intimidating.  And, truthfully, when you are paying for a decent pair of sunglasses, you should understand how they’re made.  Once you try some variations of frame material and lens type, you’ll learn what you like, and become an ‘expert’ shopper.  Here is a little help to get you started:

Lenses can be glass or polycarbonate, and polarized or non-polarized.  The base number defines the shape of the lense.  It’s important to note, a scratch-resistant lens does not exist, so protecting your glasses is crucial to extend their life.

Polarized lenses: Relax and protect your eyes from the UV rays and eliminate glare, especially on water. Translation: no squinting. Polarized lenses takes the glare off of water, and lightens the glare out of the sun too.

Nonpolarized: These are a good lens and a great option at an affordable price point. They still protect your eyes from UV rays Bottom Line: Both good options, but once you have the polarized you can tell the difference in how your eyes react and are effected by the sun.

Polycarbonate lenses ( versus glass): These lenses offer 100% uv protection, impact resistant, lighter weight than glass but have great visual clarity.  They are also pretty durable.

Base defines the shape of the lens. Most styles are 6 Base. 8 Base is more of a wrap, sporty style, and 10 Base is really wrapped.

Frames: Most sunglasses manufacturers, including all high-end brands, use some type of plastic.  It is also sometimes referred to as ‘injected’.  One of the best types of plastic, and used by brands like Hoven, is grilimid, pronounced gor-il-a-mid.  To make plastic frames, a mold is made, plastic is poured into it, and out comes the frame.  Grilamid frames are light, flexible, and relatively durable. An alternative to grilamid frames are acetate.  Acetate frames are handmade.  They have a richer feel and because they are handmade, can have many color options.

Overall

The most important thing is to find the right combo for you.  Start with your needs, and what you are planning on using the glasses for; general or specific activities, style, sun protection, etc.  Regardless of your use, a lens with UV protection should be considered a necessity to you.  Next, determine the shape that works for both your face, and activity level.  And finally, determine your price point.  A decent pair will run anywhere from $60 to $200.  But, find a shop that carries a good selection for you, and join their e-mail or mailing list.  Deals will usually be available throughout the year.  Good luck…and protect those eyes!

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