Desert Local News - Index

Desert Local News - Desert Local News Print and Virtual Edition April 17 2008 - Index

32 LOCAL NEWS
Made in the shade: Sunglass trends for 2008
By sharon mosLey
oK, we know that many of you out
there have a thing for shoes, but you probably
also have a thing for sunglasses.
sunglasses, a top fashion accessory,
are second only to shoes, according to
authorities at the sunglass association of
america, who predict that the “Class of
2008” sunglasses offer a wider range of
styles - from classic, to sport-chic, to la
femme romantique - and are packed with
new features that enhance all-day comfort
and optimize eye protection.
and, what’s more, consumers will
find sunglasses to compliment a wide
range of facial shapes and meet the needs
of every budget, from hundreds of dollars
to well under $30.
“The fun and fashion appeal of this
year’s sunglasses is standard equipment
on styles worn for pure glamour, easy-going
leisure lounging, or extreme weekend
warrior pursuits,” says dave Bibbey who,
in addition to his duties as saa president,
is vice president of product supply
for Zoom eyeworks, based in Berkeley,
Calif.
“This year, consumers will see new
takes on old favorites, like the aviator
look and the latest iterations of extremely
popular shields, which are super stylish
and provide excellent protection,” adds
melanie martin, saa vice president and
co-Ceo of suntech optics in vancouver,
British Columbia.
“Whether driving, playing beach volleyball,
beachcombing or reading by the
pool, this year there is a quality pair of
sunglasses for everyone.”
What are the hottest sunglass styles,
details, materials and features to watch
for in spring and summer of 2008?
according to Bibbey and martin,
here’s a sneak peak at what to expect
when shopping for sunglasses for men,
women and children:
Q: What’s happening with frame
styles?
Bibbey: For 2008, expect a fresh
look at classic styles like the aviator
frames, and a renewed emphasis on wraps
or shields. The large, oversize frames will
still be popular, but watch for a more diverse
selection of sizes and shapes in ‘08.
Q: What about frame colors?
Martin: Definitely, in terms of the
vintage, retro frames we’ll see basic colors
of gloss black, tortoise and white. metals
will be primary colors - gold, silver, black
and white. Brights such as cherry red, orange
and pink will also be popular.
Q: and as for frame embellishments?
Bibbey: Watch for more mediumsized
frames, which lend themselves to
decorative details - prints and polka dots
on the inside of the frame, flowers, stones
and logo treatments on the outside.
Q: any new materials or design features
of note?
martin: one area to watch for is “ecotrends”
in the new eyewear. We are on the
cusp of a transition from pure fashion fantasy
to a sense of environmental responsibility.
and that means increased interest
in frames made from recycled materials.
plus, consumers now understand the
need for all-day uv protection. so frames
must provide all-day comfort. Therefore,
watch for non-slip nose pads, nylon temple
tips, spring hinges and lightweight,
composite frames; they enhance comfort
and provide additional protection from
wind and sun.
Q: and lenses?
Bibbey: glare-cutting polarized lenses
will continue to be very popular. These
are great for driving and for sports. They
eliminate harsh glare and boost color. The
neutral grays are super in bright sunlight
and bronze lenses work in a wide variety
of outdoor conditions.
Q: speaking of sports, what types
of sunglasses will be available for the
“weekend warrior?”
Martin: Active lifestyles require outdoor
sun protection. The demand for performance
eyewear continues unabated.
polarized and photochromic lenses are
becoming the norm. Weekend warriors -
from cyclists to runners - will find sleek,
euro-inspired styles. They are lightweight,
durable, offer fantastic protection
and look incredible.
Q: Tell us about the “sun-reader revolution.”
Bibbey: This is a new breed of highfashion
eyeglasses that marries sun protection
with the corrective optics of the
finest over-the-counter reading glasses.
These sunglasses provide optimal uv
protection in bright conditions and magnification
for reading and close-up tasks,
in a variety of powers.
They are a great new option for active,
farsighted consumers. imagine, no
more switching glasses to read on the
beach or text message a friend.
sharon mosley is a former fashion
editor of the arkansas gazette in Little
rock and executive director of the Fashion
editors and reporters association.
© Copley News Service