ALPHA MALE: How to Shop for Sunglasses

Thursday, May 10, 2012

Marc Streisand, GoLocal Men's Style Expert

The foundation of sunglass success is not being an idiot. Words to live by.

When done right, sunglasses can be equally functional and stylish. From Lance Armstrong to Goose to PaulyD, sunglasses become a major part of one’s style while on the job. Since there are a lot of options and an equal number of mistakes one can make when purchasing a pair of sunglasses, we are going to provide our readers with some basic sunglass buying tips.

The foundation of sunglass success is not being an idiot. It is important to know when to wear your sunglasses, and when it is best to keep your sunglasses in their case. As a basic rule, the sun is never shining indoors and you’ll look like a goof wearing your glasses anytime there is a roof over your head (minus the car). Additionally, science also tells us that the sun does not shine at night unless you are at the North Pole. If the sun is not out, it is best to keep the shades at home. A little common sense will go a long way when determining whether or not to wear your sunglasses.

Retro or Modern?

Now getting to the product, there are two very basic genres of sunglasses; Retro and Modern. Retro glasses are your classics; clean and sophisticated lines for a sexy and professional look. Think about your classic Ray Ban Aviator. Meanwhile, modern glasses are cool these days as well. Modern glasses tend to have larger plastic, colorful rims. While these tend to be a little less sophisticated, they make up major ground in showcasing creativity and fun.

Know your lenses

As to function, sunglasses are either made from glass or highly durable plastics. Some people like the feel of a weight on their face – these people tend to wear glass. Others prefer to feel very little, and the newest light-weight plastic accommodate. Additionally, lens selection is very important. Polarized lenses should be worn around water as they block rays coming from the sun and reflecting off the water. Different colored lenses are available as well. Classic grey lenses do not distort color or contrast, while colored lenses often reflect a mushroom trip. Style aside, there is a reason most sunglass lenses are grey.

Make it fit

Finally, make sure you buy something that fits your face. A newer trend is clip-on lenses for your regular glasses. Make sure you find something comfortable and that looks good. Take your wife to the store, she’ll help you find the perfect match. As to our recommendation, we suggest Randolph Engineering. These guys make glasses 30 miles from Providence in Randolph, MA. Clients include the US Air Force…I’d say that’s a pretty good gauge of quality and durability. Check them out at Randolphusa.com.

Marc Streisand is president and owner of Marc Allen Fine Clothiers, and takes the custom clothing business very personally. Having enjoyed a successful career in the clothing industry since 1985, Marc brings his clients extensive specialized experience in menswear. Prior to taking over the Marc Allen store in March 2005, he cultivated his knowledge of luxury male attire in New York and his home state of New Jersey, where he began his vocation at Wallach's Specialty Stores. Nothing gives him greater pleasure, he says, than seeing raw cloth transformed into a custom outfit that can directly impact his customer's lifestyle.