The shade that won't fade - Sunglasses and Spectacles
In 2007, Kanye West appeared in the music video of his hit song, 'Stronger', wearing a pair of Shutter Shades, designed by Alain Mikli. Reminiscent of the 80s, when Macha Man Randy Savage donned the same and challenged Hulk Hogan's fame with his own iconic style, Shutter Shades suddenly stormed back in the scene, along with Way Farers. The Aviators, of Top Gun fame, weren't to be left behind either and the shade scene experienced a revival the world over. Since then, no one seems to leave their sunglasses behind. Global warming or undying trend? While we may never know the answer to that, it is safe to say that shades are here to stay and will not be going away anytime at all. Just like Harry Potter brought spectacles back, the eyewear fashion scene has seen constant evolution. This week, we look a bit deeper into this industry and tell you how you too can do it right.
Some of you may not. When you step out of your house on a hot, sunny day, a pair of your favourite shades makes all the difference in the world. Of course, the traditional glasses have evolved over the years and emerged as a trendier or even funkier version of the humble spectacles and now glasses are worn for more reasons other than just bad eyesight.
The sight of people of all ages trying on a range of spectacles at an optical store, trying to find the perfect one to suit them is not rare. But there was a time when it was. Lenses were chosen over low-key spectacles as they were thought to be more flattering. However, the norm is changing. We are now attracted to a pair of spectacles; be they neutral lenses to make a fashion statement or for the more common reason of bad vision. Glasses come in all kinds of different shapes, sizes and materials. So how do you know which will be ideal for you?
A must-know tip is to first study your face structure and then to choose a pair which will enhance your face. For instance, it is common knowledge that oval faces look their best when donning a rectangular pair of specs. Thus, you need to choose the shape and make of your spectacles depending on the shape of your face. There isn't of course a hard and fast rule here.
Not everyone needs a reading glass or a glass just for the purpose of better vision, though. There's another eye accessory that is more fashion than outright practicality, although it does have its merits. These are, of course, the sunglasses. Pop a pair of shades to complement and complete almost any ensemble, be it formal, casual or even deshi.
Shades also help form bonds. Even complimenting the bold elements of a stranger's summer brights works as the perfect icebreaker to strike up a conversation.
Interestingly, the appeal of the sunglasses isn't restricted to any particular age group. People of all ages opt for unique eyewear, being attracted by either the bright lens of tea-shades or the oversized frames of wayfarers. Plus, sunglasses, especially Aviators, exude machismo and thus many men are keen to have more than a pair, for any occasion.
However, sunglasses no longer need to be quietly dignified but can border on the funky. Since Kanye West donned a pair of Shutter Shades and brought the edgier designs to the fore, the trend has refused to stop.
Funky sunglasses go in perfect harmony with lively events and occasions that hold a special place in our hearts. Wouldn't a photo booth stocked with pairs of themed flip-up sunglasses and props of speech bubbles be the ideal entertainment at a party?
Sunglasses are the classy option when making a fashion statement and societal whims have it that the right pairs of trendy sunglasses make you seem more attractive. What's more is that the over-the-top features of these glasses help us express our emotions and inner selves better. It's almost as if putting on sunglasses etched with bold logos or symbols puts us on a pedestal. We become more comfortable in our skins and exude more confidence. So, the next time you're faced with a critical challenge, don those funky glasses and say, "I've got this in the bag!"
It's no secret that shades allow us to get in touch with our inner personalities. Choosing the correct attire is key and comprehending what the right event that would complement the casual and cheerful vibe of specs is crucial. What's important to remember is that trendy glasses are less of a formal accessory and more of a sign of youthful exuberance. Thus before you put on your goofy sunglasses with the eye illusion on the reflection, think twice. It all depends on where you are going and why. If the occasion is somber, remember that you cannot go wrong with Aviators. If it's a casual day out with friends and you have three-quarters on, then why not go for a pair of Wayfarers?
All things considered, one fact is for certain: glasses are, in their truest sense, whimsical. Although it takes a good eye to spot the perfect pair for yourself, once you put them on, glasses become more than a bit trivial. That is before the sun beats down on you and you have to squint all the time. That's when the triviality becomes a myth and sunglasses become the most practical invention on God's green Earth.
So, where do you get your hands on your first shade? Copies and master copies of famous brands are found all over Dhaka. In fact, you are better off paying 150 tk for a pair of Ray Bans in Farm Gate than buying the same make for over 3000 because it comes with a box. Unless you can spot a genuine from a copy, overpaying at unbranded stores is a bad idea. You can now easily order your sunglasses online, but cheap shades can help add variety faster and honestly, very few people can actually tell the difference. Bashundhara City also offers many options to choose from, while Elephant Road probably has the most number of stores catering to the different needs. Make a personal style statement with your eyewear. The eyes are the windows to the soul; why not keep them covered for that added intrigue or just have them decorated? It worked for Steven Hyde!
By Ramisa Haque
Photo: Sazzad Ibne Sayed
Model: Indrani
Spectacles: Optic Zoom
Sunglass: Urban Truth
Make-up: Farzana Shakil
Shoot coordinator: Isha Yeasmin
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