Cool shades

Like good designs, form should follow function. This is also true when choosing sun-glasses. For such a small accessory, a sunglass is big on function and design.

Sunglasses were first made as "protective glasses" for colder climates. Colored lenses in amber or mica for polar were developed to protect the eyes from dangers of snow blindness. In the late 1930s, an avalanche of sunglasses in different colors, tints and shapes were made.

The styles and shapes of sunglasses were also influenced by different periods and personalities. Hollywood celebrities like Ava Gardner, Liz Taylor, Grace Kelly, Audrey Hepburn and Jackie Onassis greatly influenced the use of sunglasses as a fashion statement. Others became the epitomes of cool while donning sunglasses – James Dean, Tom Cruise in Top Gun, Arnold Schwarzenegger and Linda Hamilton in Terminator, the shady yet cool crew of Reservoir Dogs and Neo, Trinity and Morphius of Matrix. Meanwhile, sports such as cycling, volleyball and of course winter sports revolutionized the designs of sunglasses.

Then, not too long ago, designer sunglasses became hot! Fashion houses raked in dough and vied for the number one spot in this lucrative business while clients clamored for more, more, more fashionable designs!

If these still do not inspire you as to which pair to choose, below are tips on how to make sunglasses work for you. The key in choosing sunglasses really depends on your personal style. What you read at the latter part of this column are simply guides but should not hinder you in choosing a pair that feels most comfortable on you.

Remember to choose lenses that have lenses that filter 99 to 100 percent of UVA and UVB rays as opticians will recommend. Don’t just rely on stickers on frames since many labels are not standardized. Check with your optician.

Knowing your face shape is essential in choosing a pair. Lifestyle and personal style is also a consideration.

See you around in your new visor!

Styles that flatter your face shape

• Round face. Rectangular frames balance your features.

• Square face. Go for oval or round sunglasses.

• Oval face. Wide frames and oval lenses on wire frames are a sure hit!

• Heart-shaped face. Grab a pair of aviator-style glasses.

• Triangle-shaped face. Cat’s eye style is the way to go!

• Diamond-shaped faces. Oval and cat’s eye frames flatter your face shape.

Styles that suit your lifestyle or personal style

• Sporty. Mask-like or wraps are the best. These styles stay in place even of the most rigorous movements.

• Glam Gal. The Jackie O. style is definitely for you.

• Retro Chic. Rose-colored "granny glasses" or round lenses are absolutely groovy, baby!

• Fashionista. Cat’s eye, big, black or bold makes statement!

• Rebel (with a cause). The elusive, dark lenses will make them wonder on what will be your next move.

(For more of your comments and suggestions, e-mail me at jenniepperson@hotmail.com)