A Lesson in Lenses

The time has come to reunite our eyes with summer’s hottest accessory: sunglasses. From oversized to aviators, they give an outfit instant chic with just one sweep. There are styles to suit everyone, but forget frames for a second; let’s talk lenses.

We know there are different types of lenses, but do you know what they actually do? Whether you’re constantly dashing in and out of the office, in the car or jogging in Hyde Park, a new pair of shades could be essential to your eyes’ health. And what better excuse is there to go shopping, than for the sake of our sight?

Sunglass Hut stores are dotted all over London, and are your best bet for lenses tailored to your lifestyle. If you fancy quirkier designs head down to Brick Lane where you’ll be spoilt for choice with vintage tortoiseshell styles and cat-eye frames. For a splash of colour, head to Soho’s The Eye Company and funky frames will wink at you from every angle. If you love an oversized lens perched on your nose à la Chelsea girl, check out David Clulow stores or Selfridges.

So you know where to go, but what do you need?

Polarized
Polarized lenses contain a special filter that blocks intense reflected light and reduces glare. If you’re escaping London this summer and heading for the ocean, these are ideal for reducing the glare from water.

Photochromatic
If protecting your eyes’ health is your top concern, photochromatic sunglasses are for you. These chameleon-style lenses adjust their darkness to the amount of UV rays they’re exposed to. Perfect if you’re always darting out of the office into the sun before descending into the underground.

Gradient
Often behind the wheel or hopping in cabs? Gradient lenses have a dark tint at the top that fades towards the bottom, shielding your eyes from overhead sunlight making them perfect for summer cruises.

Mirror-coated
Also sometimes called flash coatings, mirror-coated lenses limit the amount of light entering our eyes for more comfort. They come in all different colours, so the styling choices are endless! Soho, here we come!

Photo courtesy of Fabre at Flickr Creative Commons