It’s that time of year again y’all. The sun is out and the heat is on. Everyday, whether outside during the day, or for some, inside a club at night, most of us reach for our sunglasses to protect us from the brightness that is the sun (or for the clubbers, a chance to show off how much you paid for eyewear). They also come in handy ESPECIALLY when hung over. If you don’t have any at this point, then you might as well jump off a cliff or something because that’s plain torture. This here piece will help you navigate the ins and outs of this beloved eyewear.

This year, it’s al about vintage, rare finds. While in Picton, I went to a crazy vintage store called ‘City Revival’ where I picked up a pair of Laura Biagotti shades. These are my number one stunners. I wear them daily and nightly if need be. While out, I’ve noticed that a few others have noticed the awesomeness of this designer’s niche. Like four people in one night (I know! Nighttime is crazy for this shit!) had a pair. They’re awesome because they have that 80s flair with attention to detail and are available in really good colours. I particularly like mine because they have pearl inlay up top to keep it classy. You can find these in various vintage stores, ebay, and some weird glasses shop near Palmerston on College (but they overcharge, so don’t even bother).

I was supposed to report on sunglass trends down in New York at a free concert in central park during the day for Santogold, Kid Cudi, Diplo, and A-Trak, but was thwarted from doing so because the line was INSANE (this pic only represents like maybe a quarter of the line. It went on for more than 2 miles). Also, for sympathy points, I was running on an hour of sleep and needed to drive back to Toronto the same day.

At least I got a pic o this guy, who’s a perfect example of the colour-framed aviator trend I’ve noticed has become popular. I’ve always loved aviators since they made their first comeback in like ’02? They’re light-weight, go with anything, and kinda make you feel like a pilot.

The next big trend in sunglasses, but can’t afford quite yet, are the vintage inspired lenses that look like they’re straight out of the ‘30s. Seriously, I watched Gandhi last weekend, and was in awe. The examples above are by Benjamin.

Both of these beauties are unfortunately FIVE HUNDRED BONES EACH. Ya, I know, punch in the gut. That’s some extortionist shit. But if you’re rich and are cool, I recommend these pieces.

So that’s my take on shades this year. There are a lot to choose from, you can’t really go wrong. I’m just happy that we’re out of that ‘buy the most expensive looking glasses with a huge medallion on the side so everyone can see it’ phase. That was truly not a good look.

*TIP: This link is for the real vintage sunglasses aficionados.

Sarah Smart