Sure, sunglasses look cool. But it’s imperative to have a good pair that blocks out UVB rays and guards your eyes against the harsh shift from indoor to outdoor lighting.
Who likes to squint? I don’t. Plus, it can give you wrinkles around your eyes. So just wear sunglasses.
Most optometrists carry shades.
That’s the case at Forester & Pitt Vision Source (3011 N.W. 63rd; 840- 2800). Get an eye exam at least once a year. The health of one’s eyes is sometimes neglected, particularly if they belong to someone who doesn’t need a prescription to see clearly.
Take it from a girl who can’t see a thing without her glasses or contacts: Don’t take your vision for granted.
If you wear prescription eyewear regularly and aren’t quite ready to resign yourself to the somewhat dorky transitions lens (sorry, Mom — I love you!), you’re going to need a pair of sunnies with your prescription.
Don’t try to drive sans glasses with shades or with shades over your glasses. The former option is dangerous, and the latter is probably worse than transition lenses. Spring for the sunglasses you’ll actually be able to see out of.
Now, if summer shades are a sport to you, check out Black Optical (5820 N. Classen Blvd.; 879-6776). This premier shop is a unique and intimate eyewear-buying experience. Incredibly sleek and in the heart of Classen Curve, it will have you feeling very much like a Hollywood celeb-utante. Not to mention, the store carries favorites like Anne et Valentin and Oliver Peoples.
Who likes to squint? I don’t.
If you have a prescription for eyewear, bring it with you or at least have your optometrist’s information handy.
Feeling less fancy but equally stylish? Check out Shop Good (3 N.W.
Ninth; 702-0517), home of a Warby Parker showroom, one of the few such showrooms in America. Shop Good gives you the chance to try on and model your frames, whether eyewear or sunwear.
The best thing about Warby Parker is that it was started by four friends who wanted to make a difference in an industry of overpriced prescription eyewear. For each pair of frames purchased — all priced starting at $95 — the company donates a pair of eyeglasses to someone in need.
Protect those irises, and look good doing it. Let’s shop, OKC!
This article appears in May 29 – Jun 4, 2013.