Solar Powered Shades Offer Infinite Energy

Designers Hyun-Joong Kim & Kwang-Seok Jeong create the world’s first “Self-Energy Converting Sunglasses” or called SIG. The SIG sunglasses feature lenses made of dye solar cells that are able to collect energy throughout the day, turning them into electricity to power your small devices through the power jack at the back of the frame.

"The dye solar cell is described by the designers of the SIG as ”cheap organic dye [used with] nano technology [providing] cheap but high energy efficiency.” Inexpensive, light, and visible-ray penetrable. The lens turns sunlight rays, (rays that would otherwise harm the eye,) into electrical energy".

Unless you're Bono*, you will only wear your sunglasses in bright, outdoor light, which is why these Solar Powered Sunglasses are such a great idea. That they are shaped like infinity itself is a mere nerd bonus from the designers of the "Self-Energy Converting Sunglasses", aka SIG.

They're just a concept right now, but we'd suggest that someone (please, not Oakley) gets making these things soon. Running a cable to your head from your MP3 player is an everyday task, so the wires shouldn't be too annoying. The specs should also have built-in earbuds to cut down on clutter, and a much longer cable to hook up phone or iPod -- the one in the picture is ridiculously short.

Add in a couple of LCD displays and a waterproof keyboard and I'd be in heaven. I could blog from the beach, simultaneously turning my skin into bronzed, wrinkled leather as is the custom of all Brits living in Spain.

*If you are Bono, we have a request. Any chance of releasing a decent song ever agian? Your last good album came out 20 years ago.

Split Thump: An MP3 Player hidden in Oakley Sunglasses

Split Thump is the latest high-end pair of sunglasses from Oakley. As we all know, looks are deceptive, and at first glance this Split Thump pair of shades appears perfectly normal. But the fact is that these slim and stylish sunglasses from Oakley are actually an MP3 player in disguise. These lightweight sunglasses have a polished black frame with grey tinted lenses. These sunglasses have been designed in a way that they are sweat resistant, thereby giving access to joggers as well.

Oakley has designed the sunglasses with the MP3 player to suit your world and at the same time rock it. The Split Thump shades look every bit as stylish as any other pair of elite Oakley sunglasses, like the Oakley Minute Sunglasses, for example. Now you can virtually listen to the music anywhere by just either plugging in the speakers or the headphones and can simply unplug them when you just don’t need them. There are control buttons present on your sun glasses about which only you know. Therefore, now you have the convenience of controlling your entire music without anybody even coming to know about it.

This is a highly comprehensive wireless solution provided by Oakley where you just carry the music in something which you already have it with you. Split Thumb from Oakley features high definition Optics protection along with crisp and clear sound quality. The MP3 player is compatible with almost all the audio formats such as MP3, WAV, WMA, M4A, AAC and WMA with DRM 9.0. Oakley Split Thump is definitely a combination of an uncomplicated style and music which has been crystallized into original and clean sunglasses.

Sexy sunnies, Sunglasses not just for summer

Conspicuous logos and white frames a la Victoria Beckham are on the way out, but over-sized sunnies, aviators and mirror glasses are hot, hot, hot.

Any self-respecting fashionista can tell you sunglasses are about more than protecting your eyes against the sun.

Your sunnies can hide tired or red eyes while adding glamour, mystery, elegance and impact to any outfit.

And as Bono has shown, nothing screams “rock-star” more than a cool pair of sunglasses worn indoors, at night or when there isn’t a ray of sun around.

Here are a few upcoming trends in these perennial fashion faves.

BIG AND ROUND

Over-sized sunglasses are still very in, according to Dawn Klimaszewski, marketing director for Maui Jim sunglasses. “In fashion, the big thing is the big frames. But it’s evolving. More rounded, smaller.”

LOGOS ON THE OUT

Longtime luxury brand lovers are looking for a way to differentiate themselves from their flashier counterparts with understated elegance.

FLYING HIGH

Aviators are still big for men and women, says Melanie Martin, spokeswoman for the New York-based Sunglass Association of America.

Klimaszewski adds: “Oversized is fashion, but aviators are hot everywhere else.”

CLASSICS

Vintage-inspired remains hot, Martin says.

“Some of those vintage glasses used to have a flat lens. But new lenses can have a full wrap with details inspired by Jackie O, but wrapped a little more around your face, which gives you more protection.”

HAUTE HUES

Shiny black is No 1. From the vintage trend, tortoise shell remains popular and champagne shades are gaining fast.

White sunglasses are fading, while navy continues to be strong. Fluorescents are said to be on the ascent, including those from names like Dior.

SPARKLE

Jewellery lines like Tiffany and Bulgari are huge right now, says Barry Kay of Hollywood Eyes.

“They copy their jewellery designs on the sides of the frames. They sell well because of the uniqueness.”

These glasses can get pricey, though.

A limited-edition design from Fendi, loaded with hand-placed Swarovski crystals, goes for around $US1,000.

MIRROR, MIRROR

What goes best with your metallic dress or your foil-effect T-shirt?

Mirror-like materials are beginning to shine, especially with high-tech metals and colourful plastics from the likes of Jimmy Choo and Dior.

Palin's frames

The recent spate of press coverage and blog twitters about Sarah Palin's 704 series Kazuo Kawasaki designed titanium frames brings to mind an old saying, "The clothes make the man." So, does it also follow that that "The eyewear makes the woman?" Or we could expand our theory somewhat and ask if "The eyewear makes the woman qualified?"

As Palin and her supports labor to shore up the vice-presidential candidate's credentials for the job against what some say is significant evidence to the contrary, it is curious that so much attention is given to her choice of eyewear. It is hardly surprising for the press to analyze the sartorial selections of female politicians--we are just now recovering from the intense scrutiny of Hillary Clinton's pantsuits, and who could forget Condaleezza's "boot-gate"?--yet glasses, a small though arguably functional accessory, seem insignificant by comparison. However, their relative contribution to a larger "ensemble" belies the unique and transformative power of glasses on women. They have a semiotic charge that can simultaneously de-sex (remember Dorothy Parker's famous couplet, "Men don't make passes/at girls who wear glasses") and empower. If you buy into the vernacular of popular culture, then you will easily recognize that dowdy, intelligent woman wearing glasses in the classic Hollywood film, who will (before the credits roll) let her hair down, take off her glasses and transform into a sexy vixen who finds satisfaction and fulfillment in love (read: sex). If we follow that line of logic backwards, we can return the starlet to her un-sexy, intellectually respectable identity, by sweeping her hair back up and putting on the glasses.

So perhaps the 704 series Kawasaki frames are Palin's way of dethroning her old beauty queen persona and of adding a layer of studious authority to all those close-ups. Or maybe she just doesn't like contacts. Either way, like Clinton's pantsuits they are signifiers and not qualifiers, and we would much rather know about Palin's plans for bringing health care to the uninsured than how many pairs of glasses she owns.

Optometrists focus on giving

Charitable group provides eye care where needed
Destiny Dubois, Samuel Sauceda and Skylar Tufts jostled a bit for the right to take five tests.

It's not normal behavior for second-and third-graders, rushing to an unsure academic fate, but these weren't regular exams, either.
The youngsters were first in line this week at downtown San Diego's Monarch School to receive free eye care from a group of volunteers who help at health fairs and other events.

That didn't matter to Destiny, 8.

“We're doing math right now,” she said. “I don't want to go back to class.”

Then a scary realization sank in.

“Does he have to wear glasses?” Samuel asked as Skylar, the first patient, read from the eye chart. “Do I have to wear glasses?”

No, as it turned out. The optometrists, from the San Diego Optometric Society and the Veterans Affairs Hospital in La Jolla, found few problems among the 100 children and teens they examined – three of the first 30 were referred for more care. Free eyeglasses will be provided, if necessary.

Byron Newman, a semiretired optometrist from San Carlos who helped arrange the exams, tested the children's ability to follow a moving object, the final test. If it is limited, he said, their reading skills could be affected.

“That keeps them from being able to study or perform in school,” Newman said.

Evan Square, a shaggy-haired 11-year-old, told Newman that he has frequent headaches. Reading also bothers him. He was unsure how he would respond if he needed a fix for his vision.

“I'd be like, shocked,” the sixth-grader said. “It would be kind of, news, that I have to wear glasses.”

Marcus Coney, 12, recently lost his second pair of glasses. He didn't think he would be eligible for the exams.

“I already had glasses,” Marcus said. “I guess I get to do it because I got to get new ones.”

The Monarch School, which is marking its 20th anniversary, provides services for homeless and at-risk students. In addition to the vision clinic this week, nurses and dental professionals also are available for the children.

They aren't the only ones who can receive free eye care, said Sean South, of the California Optometric Association.

A charitable arm of the group offers about $3 million in care and in-kind services to disadvantaged families annually. Another program provides glasses to 1,300 military dependents.

There are many openings for aid in San Diego, an area that South said has not taken advantage of the opportunities.

“We have more doctors than we have patients,” he said.

Transitions Lenses named Official Eyewear of TOUR

Transitions Optical, Inc. and the PGA TOUR today announced a global four-year official marketing partnership designating Transitions lenses as the Official Eyewear of the PGA TOUR, Champions Tour and Nationwide Tour.

"Aligning with Transitions Optical creates a powerful partnership for the PGA TOUR and golfers everywhere," said Tom Wade, chief marketing officer, PGA TOUR. "In Transitions, we have a partner with a global brand platform that is not only relevant to golfers, but to all those who value healthy sight and who lead active lifestyles or simply enjoy spending time outdoors."

Golf enthusiasts -- professionals and amateurs alike -- depend on healthy sight for optimal performance. Playing golf requires a range of visual skills, including eye-hand coordination, speed and accuracy of eye movements, focusing, depth perception, judgment of location, and reading contours. From reading the greens to judging a putt, vision is critical to enhancing a golfer's game and prolonging ability to play. With such obstacles as varying lighting and playing conditions and ongoing exposure to ultraviolet radiation, their visual ability can be affected without proper eyecare and eyewear.

As part of the announcement, Transitions Optical introduced a broad-reaching consumer education program -- Improve Your Vision, Improve Your Game -- complete with tips and tools that link healthy, quality sight to athletic performance.

"Improve Your Vision, Improve Your Game embodies Transitions Optical's commitment to educate consumers about the importance of healthy sight and quality of sight as contributors to optimal sports performance," said Brett Craig, president, Transitions Optical.

Transitions lenses are clear indoors and at night, while outdoors, they automatically darken as light conditions change. This provides visual comfort and enhances visual quality by reducing glare and enhancing contrast. Whether a game of golf stretches from morning to afternoon, afternoon to evening, or takes place in bright sunshine or overcast conditions, Transitions lenses always block 100 percent of harmful UV rays while providing the right amount of tint. This provides an advantage over regular clear lenses and sunglasses which do not adjust to changing light conditions.

"Varying light and playing conditions combined with ongoing exposure to ultraviolet radiation without proper eyecare and eyewear may compromise everyday performance and visual ability," said Lawrence D. Lampert, O.D., F.C.O.V.D.** Fellow of the College of Optometrists in Vision Development, and sports vision specialist and trainer. "Photochromic lenses, such as Transitions lenses, are the ideal everyday lens choice for golfers, as well as those avid golf fans who want to achieve and enjoy healthy sight on and off the course."

Improve Your Vision, Improve Your Game will be introduced to consumers later this year through retailers, independent eyecare professionals and a robust interactive experience. Point-of-sale materials, educational tools, and a Web site featuring a downloadable widget will offer healthy sight and golf tips to enhance vision and improve performance. Consumers can also enter to win a weekend getaway for two at Innisbrook Resort and Golf Club.

As the Official Eyewear of the PGA TOUR, Champions Tour and Nationwide Tour, Transitions Optical is proud to sponsor the Transitions Championship, which tees off March 16-22, 2009 at the Innisbrook Resort and Golf Club in Palm Harbor, Fla.

TAG HEUER Night Vision eyeglasses for safer driving

Driving at night is far more dangerous than driving in daylight according to the statistics. Though only 10% of road miles are driven in the dark, 48% of road fatalities occur at night. That’s primarily because at night our pupils dilate, and we become short-sighted, though glare, halos, and reduced peripheral vision all contribute to ocular tiredness. TAG Heuer has released a set of ophthalmic Night Vision glasses specifically designed to correct dark-induced myopia, reduce glare, contrast the dark blue surroundings without changing colour perception and ultimately offer safer driving after dark.

The US$400 night driving glasses were originally developed specifically for the Peugeot race team’s Le Mans 24 hour racing efforts, through TAG Heuer’s long involvement with motor racing, but they have now surfaced as a mainstream product with a very compelling feature set, particularly when you consider how much a set of these innovative glasses might reduce the probability of an accident.

The Night Vision frames are made of titanium and over-moulded with an anti-slip elastomer, so they’re light, flexible around the temple area and the height of driving chic. As they are specifically designed to be worn under a helmet, they make a lot of sense for motorcycle riding too.

The frames are available in both Wide and Panorama, and the pale yellow lenses offer constant clear, sharp vision with a very high light transmission rate in order to contrast dark blue and green surroundings without changing color perception.

The special ophthalmic lenses are shatter-resistant, provide complete UV-A and UV-B protection, and offer an anti-reflective treatment, which reduces glare and offers more accurate sight from dusk to dawn.

Controlling any vehicle on the road is a sight response game where mistakes can cost you your life, so we’re giving these a huge “thumbs up.”

International Players Tour adopts Oakley as its Official Eyewear

International Players Tour (IPT) announces the selection of Oakley as the “Official Eyewear” of the IPT, joining the best athletes in the world who recognize that Oakley eyewear products provide the best optical clarity, impact resistance, and UV protection in the industry.

Under the terms of their agreement, IPT will promote Oakley eyewear to its membership at the 200+ events across the country in 2008, including major events such as the Ted Rhodes Classic and the 2008 Tour Championship Week later in the season.

Ron Beaman, Founder and President of IPT, voiced his excitement with the Oakley relationship, “Partnering with Oakley is a huge step for our organization. Their recognized leadership and endorsements in sports parallel our commitment at IPT to provide the best playing experience for our membership. And we’re indeed honored to promote their brand in our many events across the country.”

As stated on their web site – www.oakley.com – “Oakley was created for world-class athletes, those who see the limits of possibility as just another challenge. Their dedication drives us to look beyond the conventional ideas of industry standards. It’s in our DNA to identify problems, create inventions, and wrap those inventions in art. And simply to make things better than anyone thought possible.”

Buy Oakley Sunglasses

John Galliano signs global eyewear license with Marcolin

The Marcolin Group, one of the global leaders in the eyewear industry and Les Jardins d’Avron S.A., the company producing and distributing John Galliano’s Products, announced the signature of an exclusive license agreement for the production and worldwide distribution of men’s and women’s sunglasses and prescription frames under the brand John Galliano. The 5-year licensing agreement, renewable for another 2 years, will be effective September 1st, 2009 and the first John Galliano Eyewear collection will be unveiled in Fall 2009. The distribution will be selective and focused in the most prestigious accounts and Department Stores worldwide, as well as John Galliano boutiques. The expertise and know-how in the production and distribution of eyewear by Marcolin Group and the creativity, inspiration and design of John Galliano are a guarantee to a successful cooperation. John Galliano, stated: 'S unglasses and eyewear are essential accessories to make a statement on and off the runway and I am really excited to give them a Galliano twist. I am thrilled to be working with Marcolin and to add eyewear to the Galliano brand. I can't wait to begin a new vision in vision!'” Maurizio Marcolin, Style & Licensing Officer of the Marcolin Group, stated: “John Galliano is a true genius. It’s a tremendous opportunity for Marcolin to work with such a talented designer. This new agreement further establish Marcolin’s strategy in pursuing top Luxury Brands where to exploit our competitive advantage.”

Marcolin Group

Safilo sees Gucci licence renewal "as soon as possible"

Italian eyewear maker Safilo expects to renew a licence with Gucci "as soon as possible", Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Massimiliano Tabacchi said on Wednesday.

"The Safilo team and Gucci team are working together for the renewal ... we anticipate this renewal, it is a very important renewal for us," Tabbachi told analysts on a conference call.

"We expect to have this renewal as soon as possible."

Safilo H1 net falls, cuts 2008 forecasts

Italian eyewear maker Safilo (SFLG.MI: Quote, Profile, Research) reported a fall in net profit of more than a third in the first half of the year, hit by a weak dollar, and cut its 2008 forecasts because of weak European markets.

Safilo, whose brands include Armani, Dior and Gucci, said in a statement net profit fell to 21.1 million euros ($32.89 million) from 33.3 million euros a year ago. Net sales fell to 637 million euros from 667.8 million euros.

"We believe that the European market will continue to remain weak even in the upcoming months and we are therefore looking to the second part of the year with greater caution," Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Massimiliano Tabacchi said in the statement.

Safilo cut its forecast for sales growth for the year to around 4 percent at constant exchange rates from a previous forecast of 7 percent to 8 percent.

It expects EBITDA at around 13.5 percent to 14 percent of revenues, down from a previous estimate of about 15 percent. Net profit should be 3 percent to 3.5 percent of revenues, down from a previous forecast of 4.5 percent to 5 percent.

WEAK DOLLAR

Safilo registers around 40 percent of its business in dollars, and said its performance was penalised by the "ever more marked weakness of the U.S. dollar."

At constant currencies, net sales rose 1.3 percent.

American sales saw double-digit growth at constant exchange rates with the consolidation of new retail stores and a chain in Mexico as well as the "good increase" in prescription frames and sunglass sales volumes in the wholesale business.

Asia saw double-digit growth, with "particularly brilliant results" in the Chinese and Korean markets. Spain, Britain and Germany were particularly hit by fragile consumer buying.

In Italy, results were in-line with last year. Safilo noted weak re-orders in Europe in May and June.

Safilo competes with Italy's Luxottica (LUX.MI: Quote, Profile, Research), to whom it lost a deal with designer Stella McCartney. Analysts say Luxottica's signing the McCartney brand, part of French group PPR (PRTP.PA: Quote, Profile, Research) which also owns Gucci, puts more pressure on Safilo to renew the Gucci licence.

Tabacchi said negotiations on this were going "pretty good."

"We expect to have this renewal as soon as possible," he told analysts on a conference call.

Safilo shares closed up 7.26 percent at 1.15 euros before the statement came out.

How to get dressed: Sunglasses

Lasting doom is upon us this summer. How do we know? The invasion of coloured sunglasses
Once in a while, an everyday item strays so far from its original functional purpose that one finds oneself wondering whether civilisation really has plumbed so far into the depths of decadence that only universal and lasting doom is left.

If that sounds a little melodramatic, not to mention alliterative, I’m afraid coloured sunglasses are to blame. By coloured, I don’t mean the various muted shades of tortoiseshell or black that used to pass for choice in the dim and distant past when Reason still held sway. And by sunglasses, I don’t mean the lenses, where colour may indeed serve a useful ophthalmic purpose. I mean the frames. For as you will have noticed – unless you have been fortunate enough to have spent what passes for our laughable summer on Pluto – red, yellow, green and, lawksamercy, pink sunglasses are the very height of fashion this year.

That’s progress for you: last year, we had the very silly-looking white sunglasses craze. This year, we have the completely stupid school of Bob the Builder, multicoloured, very plastic look. Which means that if spending half the morning co-ordinating your hair extensions with your vast collection of Birkins isn’t enough to fulfil you creatively as an artist, then you can at least bolt on another hour or two while you decide whether to match or clash your specs with your toenails.

Perhaps it’s the experimental nature of this display that in part explains the appeal of coloured sunnies. Or perhaps Ray-Ban just sent out loads of freebies. Either way, all the usual suspects have been turning out in support of this trend: Lily Allen in a lime pair, Paris in – surprise, surprise – a pink pair, Jessica Simpson in a red pair, Drew Barrymore and Sienna in white (must be a retro thing), and where they so fearlessly tread, others follow. Type “coloured sunglasses” into Google and the screen leaps to life with blogs from lesser mortals plaintively asking where they can get hold of cheaper versions (Topshop, for starters).

The funny thing is that while sunglasses are supposed to be the modern-day equivalent of a mask, the expression on all these coloured sunglasses wearers is all too blatantly apparent. It’s the “Hey, I don’t take myself seriously, you know; now where’s that assistant who wipes the gunk off my shoes?” look. If sticking your tongue out at paps wasn’t so 2007 and flicking a V for Victory wasn’t so 1945, they’d do that instead. So top marks for ingenuity. And A* all round, I suppose, for reacting to this rubbish summer with an utterly rubbish pair of sunglasses.

As for why mere mortals are buying them in packs, my extensive research suggests that they find the classic tasteful sunglasses of their mothers boring. That would be boring in the same way that Mies van der Rohe is boring. Oh well, they’ll learn.

Hawaiian brand Maui Jim sashays into Europe

US. Maui Jim Sunglasses, the Hawaiian supplier of sports, fashion and classic sunglasses, has unveiled new frames featuring patented multi-layered PolarizedPlus2 lens construction, said to give unrivalled protection from UV and glare and excellent colour definition.

Kula, a stylish wraparound shield, has a single lightweight polycarbonate lens which has been coated to protect the eyes from direct, reflected and bounce-back glare. Broad temple design with strong silver alloy hinges and wide legs with a subtle stripe present a smart contemporary look. The rimless style has a robust and lightweight design.

Kula (style 514) is available in black with grey lenses, metallic copper with HCL bronze, or Sandstone with Maui Rose lenses. Fashionable white is one of the frame colourways on offer with the new Kaimana and Lehua sunglasses.

Kaimana (style 204) is a mid-size rectangular frame with SuperThin ST lenses which is available in black with grey, and green or brown with HCL bronze and well as white with Maui Rose lenses.

Lehua (style 203) is a rounded frame with wide temples for a fashionable look. Besides white, this frame comes in brown with HCL Bronze and black with grey ST lenses.

On display at the TFWA Asia Pacific show in May were the new Kapena (207) and Harbor (206) aviator shapes, both made from Monel metal for durability and adjustability with non-slip nose-pads and spring hinges.

The styles are available in gunmetal black frame with neutral grey lens or matte bronze with HCL bronze lens. Kapena has an unusual two-tone temple design and Harbor has a mottled pattern on one side of the temple and a solid colour on the opposite side.

The sophisticated new Peahi (202) style in lightweight, hypoallergenic nylon (cellulose propionate) also boasts SuperThin lenses and rectangular frame and clean masculine lines. It is offered in black with neutral grey lens or tortoiseshell effect with HCL bronze lens.

Left: The Kula wraparound shield style in copper and bronze. Right: The Kapena aviator shape with two-tone temple design

Progress in European and Americas travel retail

Following the 2008 IAADFS show in the Americas, Maui Jim has achieved new listings with independent retailers in Texas, St Kitts, Guyana and Uruguay.

The company has also entered an agreement with Gebr Heinemann starting with Mauritius Duty Free Paradise Co and expanding later to travel retail outlets in Europe.

At Aelia outlets in France, sales of Maui Jim Sunglasses in the first quarter were more than double last year's figure.

Meanwhile, at World Duty Free in the UK, the Maui Jim Sport collection has seen sales up +30% but the latest fashion models, including Palms and Bamboo, are also performing well, according to the company.

Kappé International introduced the Maui Readers bifocal reading sunglasses at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport and the response has been excellent, said the supplier.

After just three months of listings at Moscow Domodedovo Airport with Aer Rianta International, the brand was ranked the third most popular sunglasses label and listings in Kiev and Sheremetyevo Airports have followed.

Speaking of the brand's success in Europe, Maui Jim Sales Manager Duty Free Europe and Middle East Martine Larroque said: "We have launched a string of great new styles recently from retro-glamour girl frames to slick masculine lines and all with our unique patented PolarizedPlus anti-glare technology. Now the brand is really taking off in fashion-conscious Europe."

Love Your Sunglasses (Should I Know You?)

THE Ilori store in SoHo must be one of the only sunglass emporiums with a V.I.P. room. Lounging there with a flute of Moët, nibbling dark chocolate, shoppers can ponder just the right accessory to create the allure that they are Somebodies.

Will these Tom Ford wood-and-steel aviators convince onlookers that my natural habitat is the red carpet? Will Ralph Lauren’s $350 shades suggest I have stepped off a yacht in Edgartown?

To see for themselves, shoppers can peer into six full-length mirrors around the store, the better to coordinate their eyewear and their entire outfit. This is what appealed to Olivia Munoz, who was scrutinizing her image from head to toe recently while trying on the wares. “I’m beginning to love sunglasses as much as I love shoes and bags and jewelry,” said Ms. Munoz, 21, a student at the University of Mississippi. She added somewhat sheepishly, as if to justify her splurge, “It’s going to be my birthday.”

Ms. Munoz typifies the shopper who has diverted her spending from Stella McCartney tunics and Balenciaga totes into high-priced designer sunglasses. Ilori, a chain that also has stores in Los Angeles, Las Vegas and Honolulu, seems to have positioned itself perfectly in a season when statement sunglasses are one luxury that consumers are still willing to splurge on.

Prices for designer sunglasses have jumped to $350 or more in recent months, from an average of $250, retailers say, and the price spike has not turned off shoppers. “The youth of America has discovered sunglasses to be the aspirational and prestige item of the moment,” said Marshal Cohen, a senior analyst with the NPD Group, a market research firm. He predicts, “Sunglasses will replace the handbag as the image item” among teenage girls and young women.

While sales of handbags declined 14 percent in the last year, according to NPD, total sales in the $3 billion eyewear industry rose by 10 percent, even while the number of individual glasses sold has slackened — an indication there has been significant growth at the upper end of the market, Mr. Cohen said.

Why are designer sunglasses bucking the downturn of other luxury goods? Retailers and other fashion authorities cite It-bag fatigue (women have bought more bags in recent years than they can store in their closets), whereas sunglasses are still a novel way to acquire the cachet of a designer brand.

Sunglasses at the top rung of the price ladder are in step with trends, changing shapes and colors seasonally to reflect the whims of buyers. This summer, a heightened enthusiasm for aviator and wraparound frames and vintage Jackie O styles is contributing to their status as the luxury accent of the hour.

Designers are playing into shoppers’ desire to be recognized, at least by those in the know, by downplaying big logos and incorporating more subtle signals of provenance. Bottega Veneta offers frames with woven leather insets that are recognizable to connoisseurs of the house’s hand-woven leather goods. Prada butterfly frames echo the motifs of the brand’s recent runway collections. Chrome Hearts frames are embellished with sterling bolo designs and leather trim reflective of the company’s rough-rider image.

Such stealth-wealth signifiers appeal to Sylvia Toporkiewicz, a visitor from Poland, who was browsing late last month at the Sunglass Hut on Spring Street in SoHo. She weighed the hip factor of a pair of crystal-encrusted Versace frames against some equally costly but understated Ray-Ban glasses, choosing the Ray-Bans, because, she explained, “I don’t want to look Paris Hilton.”

She is among those turning their backs on ostentatious styling, and especially on the owlishly super-size frames popularized a few years back by Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, in favor of scaled-down rectangles in bi-colored plastic, imitation tortoise shell, wood, titanium or even gold.

Over all, “people are leaning towards the classics in rich materials,” said Richard Talmadge, the chief operating officer for Safilo, which makes Balenciaga, Jimmy Choo and Valentino eyewear. The company’s best sellers include Marc Jacobs aviators and television-screen-shaped plastic frames worthy of Anouk Aimée in “La Dolce Vita.”

The most coveted styles have a candidly patrician cast. “They look back to the 1970s,” said Jayne Mountford, a trend consultant in Los Angeles. “They represent the iconic look of the jet setter.”

In contrast to the ’70s originals, which made people seem aloof or anonymous, contemporary variations often feature gradient lenses that are tinted on top and clear below — a more approachable look.

“Sunglasses aren’t armor anymore — they’re not about saying don’t touch me,” said Ed Burstell, the vice president for cosmetics and accessories for Bergdorf Goodman in New York. Among the more rarefied labels at Bergdorf are Bulgari, Bottega Veneta, Alexander McQueen, Marc Jacobs, Chanel and Barton Perreira, a six-month-old brand coveted by aficionados.

In the fall, the store plans to expand its already large sunglasses boutiques by 25 percent. Bergdorf prices range from about $300 to $750 for a high-end tortoise-rim version of Ray-Ban’s Wayfarers, or $1,395 for frames from the brand Gold & Wood, which have diamond-studded temples.

Despite the price, Mr. Burstell described luxury sunglasses as relatively accessible to shoppers used to paying in the thousands for bags or dresses, a “fashion purchase that doesn’t break the bank.”

The demand for luxury sunglasses has spurred designers to quickly affix their logos to the latest styles, including some designers who had not previously had eyewear lines. The roster includes established giants like Tom Ford, Karl Lagerfeld and Giorgio Armani, and cutting-edge brands like Stella McCartney, Proenza Schouler and Thakoon, some offering wares for both women and men.

“Men have embraced sunglasses with a passion, and may even be driving sales,” said James J. Spina, the editor in chief of 20/20, an eyewear monthly. “Unlike men’s previous pet object, the watch, which half the time is covered by a sleeve, sunglasses are always visible, a kind of jewelry for the face. They give men an identity.”

Browsing at Ilori last month, Matthew Knoll, the owner of a catering company in New York, seemed inclined to that view. He was prepared to spend $400 or more for a distinctive look, he said, adding, “I don’t want to see my sunglasses on someone else’s face.”

Ms. Toporkiewicz continued to scour the Sunglass Hut for frames she hoped would compliment her steeply-angled cheekbones. She would be happy, she said, to spend $300 for a pair that gave her an old-fashioned Garbo-esque allure. “But if they are really nice,” she added, “I would pay any price.”

Sunglasses not only a fashion statement

In very hot countries like Qatar where temperatures sometimes reach close to 50 degrees Celsius, wearing sunglasses is necessary, an eye expert told The Peninsula

People who are not aware of the importance of sunglasses think they are simply fashion accessories bought for their brand names and to make a style statement. But for the eye conscious, shades are considered a useful tool to counter serious eye problems.

"A person who does not wear sunglasses during very hot months over five years can develop cataract because of ultraviolet (UV) rays damaging the cornea (the clear front surface of the eye)," Irene Senga, an optometrist said. Excessive exposure to UV radiation can cause short-term and long-term ocular problems such as photokeratitis (a burn of the cornea), cataracts and various forms of eye cancer, Senga added.

She pointed out that a large number of youngsters nowadays are already using spectacles because of poor eyesight caused by lack of knowledge on proper eye care and abuse like spending too much time using computers.

Asked whether branded and expensive sunglasses are better than cheap ones, she said that there is no correlation between price and effectiveness of sunglasses. In fact an Australian based study suggested that consumers cannot rely on price as an indicator of quality, she added.

However, she said that the material used in making sunglasses matters, explaining that polarized ones are more effective and should be preferred since they could eradicate UV rays almost completely and could guard against powerful light and glare.

It really depends on what the person wants and how much he is willing to spend but he has to consider his eye's safety over money, she added.

Emphasizing on the significance of the eyes, she suggested other ways of taking care of them such as adequate eye rest, proper diet which includes fruits and vegetables and taking intermittent breaks while using computers.

The right sunglasses help summer drivers stay safe

THE UK’s roadster and coupe cabriolet drivers are being given some timely advice about looking cool behind the wheel this summer – without compromising their safety.

The trick is to avoid making a spectacle of yourself by wearing naff shades while at the same time protecting your eyes from excessive glare.

The Eyecare Trust says that sunglasses are not merely a fashion statement, even though designer models can cost hundreds.

The Trust advises drivers to choose glasses bearing the CE or BS EN 1836:2005 marks for a safe level of protection.

Don’t choose really dark glasses which could impair vision when driving. But do choose lenses with anti-reflective coatings to reduce glare.

Sunglasses with slim arms provide the greatest all-round vision, bearing in mind drivers to see at least 120 degrees.

Beware of pink or blue tinted lenses which can distort colours, such as traffic lights.

Sunglasses with graduated-tint lenses are best for drivers. They give protection from bright overhead light and leave a lighter area that is best for reading maps or dashboard instruments.

Dame Mary Perkins, founder of the Specsavers chain, says: "Sunglasses make driving in bright light easier by reducing glare from the road, especially for drivers of open-top cars.

"They also enhance contrast, provide protection from the sun and significantly reduce eye fatigue.”

Luxottica confirms 2008 guidance

Italian eyewear group Luxottica (LUX.MI: Quote, Profile, Research, Stock Buzz) confirmed its 2008 guidance on Thursday, as expected, and said it saw mid-single digit growth in second quarter sales at current exchange rates, despite tough market conditions.

The world's biggest eyewear group, which saw net profit fall 19 percent in the first quarter -- partly hit by a weak U.S. dollar and the U.S. consumer slowdown -- has forecast sales of 5.6 billion to 5.75 billion euros this year.

It expects earnings per share of 1.11 to 1.14 euros.

"I am more comfortable today than 4 months ago, dealing with these tough times, cost base and efficency," Luxottica Chief Executive Andrea Guerra told analysts on a conference call, which had been announced earlier this week to confirm guidance.

In a slide presentation, it said it saw second-quarter EBITDA margin growth in line with the first quarter. This excludes a non-recurring gain of about 20 million euros related to the sale of a property in the second quarter of last year.

Luxottica, which bought U.S. sports brand Oakley last year, said market conditions remained "tough" with a significantly delayed start of the sunny season in certain Mediterranean countries and U.S. dollar weakness.

Luxottica said it expected a more "normalised" business for the second half of the year. It should meet its full year guidance with "very clear plans" to compensate for a slowdown in certain countries for the wholesale division and said that there would be less of an impact from Oakley-related one-time charges.

It said it expects "good results" from manufacturing, sourcing and supply chains and potentially an improvement in the U.S. dollar and euro exchange rate. Continued...

Investors are looking at luxury goods makers for signs of cooling demand amid a global economic downturn. Some luxury goods groups have felt the impact of weaker sales but have said they expect results to hold up as long as the economic climate does not worsen.

Luxottica shares closed down 5.68 percent at 15.40 euros before the conference call.

5 things you didn't know about … protecting your eyes

1. More than fashion: Sunglasses and a hat can protect your eyes from UV rays and reduce the risk of cataracts and retinal damage. They also protect the sensitive skin around your eyes, which, if overexposed to the sun, can result in eyelid cancers and wrinkling.

2. Eye burn: Artificial sources of UVB rays - tanning beds, halogen desk lamps - can cause snowblindness, the burning of the cornea. The condition also occurs at high altitudes on highly reflective snow fields. Symptoms include tearing, pain, redness and temporary loss of vision. Treatment consists of eye patches and an antibiotic solution.

3. Watch out: Pterygium, a noncancerous growth over the white part of the eye, has been diagnosed more frequently in people who spend a lot of time in the sun and wind, i.e, fishermen, surfers. No treatment is required, unless it blocks your vision. Then, it can be removed surgically.

4. Read the label: Don't be fooled into thinking that pricey sunglasses provide the best protection. The label is more important than the price tag. Make sure it says 99 percent to 100 percent UV protection, and make sure the label on your children's sunglasses says the same.

5. Partly cloudy: Keep wearing your sunglasses, even on a cloudy day. Clouds do not wipe out UV rays.

D&g Men Eyewear Collection Fall/Winter 0809

D&G: a brand that is universally recognised as young, innovative, unconventional and continuously evolving in its search for style and quality.

This season, the D&G man’s eyewear collection adds four new models, for sun and optical, distinct in their soft, oversized shapes and elegant details.

The collection is made predominantly of plastic frames in different shapes. Sun Collection: men’s acetate frame, inspired by the 1960s. The rectangular, even front is combined with highmounted, robust arms and slightly wrap-around lenses.

The D&G logo is placed on the arms with three decorative metal accents. This model is made of natural plastic and is paired with lenses that match the frame, offered in shiny black and in light and dark tobacco brown.

Class drop-shape metal model updated with design details. This model is inspired by the timeless aviator glasses. Its uniqueness is created by the use of a thin metal plate on which the rimless lenses are attached, held by four little hooks. The metal frame is particularly shiny and is available in black, silver, brown and gunmetal.

Optical collection: large glasses with a strong visual impact from the striking thickness of the plastic. The rectangularfront recalls the shapes of the 1950s, but the flowing lines give this model a modern, sporty look. Available in shiny black, red on a black base, red and dark tobacco.Plastic model with a rectangular, very even shape; its size and proportions give it an especially gutsy look.

The logo is engraved on a small metal plaque placed on both arms. The frame is available in black or in unusual colour combinations, such as red on a burgundy base mixed with black or tobacco paired with blue, or black with tobacco.

D&G women eyewear collection Fall/Winter 0809

D&G: a brand that is universally recognised as young, innovative, unconventional and continuously evolving in its search for style and quality. This season, the D&G women’s eyewear collection adds four new models, for sun and optical, distinct in their soft, oversized shapes and elegant details. The collection is made predominantly of plastic frames in different shapes.

For The women’ sun collection there are two new shapes: wide, wrap-around frame that recalls the style and taste of the 1970s, in classic black in shiny plastic as well as in burgundy and bottle green with a unique marbled effect. Or wide, rounded plastic glasses with an unmistakable glamour inspired by the stars of Hollywood, the main feature of this model is its rounded shape that gives it a harmonious, flowing quality and the colour palette includes black, tobacco, beige and purple.

Also for the optical the new shapes are two, the first has a plastic oval frame, halfway between the classic rectangle and the 1980s-inspired pilot shape.
The frames are thin around the lenses and this continues along the arms in a linear fashion. This model is available in black, white, red, iridescent tobacco and blond. The second is an oval model clearly inspired by the 1950s.

Featuring a simple line and limited size, this model stands out for its colour play created by pairing different coloured plastics, such as black with streaked ice, brown with horn and transparent crystal with streaked yellow, red and purple.

Wear your shades to protect your eyes

CIVIC leader Colin Burgess and his family are promoting eye health this summer by looking cool.

The Congleton Borough Mayor and his five grandchildren are donning their sunglasses as part of Shades Day.

The event is organised by the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association, and Cllr Burgess, from Alsager, is encouraging people to take part.

Research has shown spending five or more hours outside every day in the summer in your teens and early adult years increases risk of long-term eye damage.

Children and adults are urged to put on sunglasses, a sun visor or hat to protect them from harmful UV sunlight.

This will help reduce your risk from such eye conditions as Age-related Macular Degeneration and cataracts.

“I value the health of my grandchildren, and it is extremely important to wear sunglasses,” said Cllr Burgess.

“Shades Day is a fantastic way to raise money for Guide Dogs and to highlight the importance of wearing sunglasses.”

Tom Pey from Guide Dogs said educating people in how to protect their sight was important.

“One simple way to keep eyes healthy is to wear your sunglasses,” he said.

“If you are outside and the light is so bright you have to squint or turn your head away you know you have to put on your shades.

“Experts recommend wraparound-style sunglasses marked with Type 2 or 3 and with a CE symbol.

“To cut out the most damaging blue light it’s best to choose shades with yellowish or amber lenses.”

Safilo, Luxottica's Italian plants cut production, jobs - unions

The Italian eyewear companies Safilo Group SpA and Luxottica Group SpA have reduced production and/or cut jobs at some of their Italian plants, due to a slowdown in demand and seasonal factors, a union representative told Thomson Financial News.

Giuseppe Colferai, provincial secretary of the FILTEA-CGIL union at Belluno, an industrial zone specialised in the manufacturing of eyewear, said that Safilo started this week temporarily layoffs at its Longarone plant that focuses on metal components.

He noted that metal is currently less sought after in the production of eyewear than plastic because of a fashion trend. But, the plant's production is also being hit by the economic slowdown in the United States and poor weather conditions, which affects the sale of sunglasses.

Safilo is the world's second largest eyewear group. The U.S. market is estimated to represent more than 30 percent of the company's revenues.

Colferai added that production at all of Safilo's Italian plants will dramatically decline at the end of June, with plants working at reduced capacity

due to a shift to the autumn/winter collections as well as initial work on next year's spring/summer collection.

This will led to temporarily layoffs at all sites, he said.

In Italy, manufacturers can use the so-called 'cassa integrazione' that enables them to temporarily lay off workers, who are then paid by a special fund.

Colferai indicated that workers will receive 80 percent of their wages while in 'cassa integrazione'.

Temporary layoffs are common in June because of the collection shift, he said.

However in July, the Longarone site will continue using the 'cassa integrazione' fund and reduce production on Fridays because of the special situation regarding metal components, he added.

Turning to Luxottica, the world's leading eyewear group, Colferai said that the group is not renewing 40 temporary jobs at its plant at Rovereto, Italy.

The union expects the group will cut another 200 jobs at its plants at Pederobba and Agordo.

Colferai added that in recent months the group has already cut about 100 jobs at its Pederobba plant, which produces sports eyewear, and a similar number at its main Italian plant of Agordo.

Like Safilo, Luxottica is suffering from the drop in global consumption, but overall the 'situation still remains calm,' he said.

He described Luxottica as a 'war machine' that can rely on its large retail network to sell its production.

Luxottica has a global network of more than 6,200 stores.

Safilo has also launched plans to boost its retail business to at least 20 percent of total sales in 2012 from 6 percent in 2007 by increasing the store network to between 700 and 800 from about 270 currently.

In a study released on June 10, the Italian fashion association Altagamma said that the global performance of the luxury goods sector indicates a weaker outlook this year for the industry compared with 2007.

It also indicated that the most successful companies are those that have developed a retail business, as well as boosting efficiency thanks to the management of working capital and store inventories.

Picking The Wrong Pair Of Sunglasses Can Do More Harm Than Good

The summer sun can make for a lot of fun, but meteorologists and eye doctors agree - choosing the wrong pair of sunglasses can be hazardous to your health.

The sun can represent warmth, light and a chance for a tan, but it's no secret the bright star also poses potential dangers.

"Ultra-violet rays, people usually associate with getting a sunburn and skin cancer, but they can also damage your eyes, damage your cornea so that's the primary threat,"

That's where sunglasses come in. But if you pick the wrong pair, they can do more harm than good.


"Your pupils dilate to let in more light, and it's the same thing when you wear sunglasses. Your pupils dilate, they get bigger to let in more light, and if you don't have UV protection, ultra-violet protection on your sunglasses, you'll actually let more dangerous light into your eyes," Hall said.

Optometrists say smaller-sized sunglasses are not as protective against the sun’s rays because beams can still leak in through the top and bottom.

David Huntzberry, the owner and an optician at Longmeadow Eyecare said, "It can be uncomfortable as well as a little bit dangerous because you are allowing light in from the sides. It's not so much direct light but indirect light."

Huntzberry says polarized sunglasses are also easier on the eyes.

He added, "Glare being bright, unwanted, harsh, brilliant, reflective light. With that filter in the lens, it filters out reflective light and just allows more direct light in."

Meteorologist Ian Hall says UVA rays are commonly associated with wrinkles and aging, while UVB rays are known to cause sunburn and skin cancer.

Sunglasses warning from opticians

Opticians have warned that some fashion sunglasses provide no protection against the harmful effects of the sunlight.

The number of people suffering from sun-related damage to their eyes is increasing, according to the Association of Optometrists (AOI).

The AOI has stressed that the sun can cause irreversible, long-term damage to the eye and the highest risk groups, children and the elderly, wear little or no protective eyewear in the sun.

It also says many fashion sunglasses with fashion tints offer no protection against sunlight, and proper sunglasses delay ageing of the eyes by 20% and decrease the risk of getting cataracts by 40%.

The AOI is warning people about the importance of protecting their eyes in the sun.

"Following evidence of increasing numbers of people presenting with sun-related damage to their eyes, the AOI advises that wearing proper sunglasses helps to prevent such damage and to protect the eyes."

Optometrist Lynda McGivney Nolan said the human eye is as sensitive to the sun as skin is, yet, when Irish people are out in the sun, many neglect to pay attention to the quality of sunglasses they are wearing.

"Just as the sun causes serious damage to the skin, so can the harmful rays from sunlight cause irreversible, long-term damage to the eye, including skin cancer on the lids, corneal burns, damage to the eye tissue, cataracts and macular degeneration."

The AOI recommends that good sunglasses offering the maximum protection should:

*Eliminate UV, A,B and C radiation, and all radiation up to 400nm.

*Protect the eye from blue light which does the most damage to the back of the eye.

*Allow normal colour perception and optimise clarity of vision.

*Have wide-sided or wraparound styling to protect the eye from sunlight from the side.

*Use the correct degree of protection appropriate to the light conditions and the activity being performed.

The AOI says many fashion sunglasses with fashion tints such as blue or pink offer poor vision quality and no protection against sunlight.

Ms McGivney Nolan said your local optometrist (optician) is best placed to advise you on the best type of protective sunglasses for your needs.

Experts: Sunglasses more than fashion statement

The sun is getting brighter, the days are getting warmer and people are coming out of their houses.

This time of year means Little League, yard work and home improvements that have been put on hold by winter.

Dr. Terry Voirin, general ophthalmologist at Wheaton Eye Clinic in Plainfield, warns people that all these activities can damage eyes if protective measures are not taken.

To stress his point, he tells the story of a man who was cutting his grass on a riding lawn mower. While he was wearing sunglasses, the outside corner of his eyes were exposed.

A rock shot out from under the mower, struck the garage and ricochetted, hitting his eye on the unprotected side. It took two to three weeks for him to get his vision back.

"He was lucky because he gained his vision back," Voirin said. Most of the time, Voirin said, people just neglect eye protection.

"I think they just don't think anything is going to happen to them," he said.

But, it does.

When Voirin worked at a level one trauma center in Peoria, he said he saw numerous eye injuries caused by home improvements or outdoor sports that could have been prevented with proper eye protection.

"When I think cutting or hammering with nails, I think the goggles, wrap-around glasses are the best bet," he said.

People sometimes mistakenly think if they wear prescription eyeglasses that is enough protection for the eye. But, there is so much space that is not protected by regular glasses.

For children playing summer sports, protective eyewear is a must. If parents are concerned whether eyewear fits correctly or is the right choice, they should consult an eye doctor.

Adult recreational athletes also are in danger of eye injuries.

"I get a lot of guys that come in here and they are playing pick-up basketball and they got poked in the eye," Voirin said.

He said he also sees a lot of eye injuries in competitive badminton.

The most dangerous sport for the eyes, from Voirin's perspective, is paintball, especially because of the popular new plastic BBs.

"I have seen some horrific injuries from those," he said.

Proper protection can be an eye-saver. When it comes to paintball, sunglasses and regular goggles are not enough.

Instead, Voirin suggests participants use special paintball goggles.

It's not just those working around the house or playing sports who are in danger of damaging their eyes. Everyone must protect their eyes from the sun.

"The sun has been shown to increase the risk for macular degeneration and cataracts," Voirin said.

When shopping for sunglasses, people do not have to spend a lot of money. "As long as the little tag says UV protection, that's all you need," he said.

Sunglasses should be worn until the sun no longer is so bright that it causes a person to squint, he said.

Car windshields have some protection, but not enough.

For people who wear prescription glasses and like the convenience of lenses that darken in the sun, Voirin said improvements are on the way that will allow the lenses to darken in the car, despite the protection of the windshield.

Oakley's Enduring - Sunglasses designed by women for women

Sunglasses to me are what Manolo's are like to Carrie (Sarah Jessica Parker, in case you've been living under a rock.) I have the beach "cheapies" (10 bucks) and my stylish Kate Spades (let's just say over a hundred dollars), but for real performance I always carry my Oakley's. Simply put, they make the best polarized lenses - no distortion, real colors, and because of the "water sheer" factor, you can even wear them in the pool. (Oakley calls it, amusingly, the Hydrophobic feature, but basically it's a permanent lens coating that prevents water from leaving streaks and sheens, which can compromise vision. It also works against sweat, skin oils, fingerprints and suntan lotions.)

Now they've taken them one step further and improved the fit by enlisting female athletes in the design process. The result? Two sizes of interchangeable nose pieces which come with every frame, adapting for the perfect fit, and a frame made of something called "Unobtanium," which makes them light. Also, the supple synthetic increases grip with perspiration.

For unbeatable clarity at all angles of vision - even at the sides - the lens contours provide peripheral view and optimize protection against sun and wind, and - god forbid - side impact.

Two different lens shapes let you choose the amount of lens coverage; I prefer the Pace style but the Edge is very sporty, and I like them for biking. There's tons of frames and lenses to chose from. Whatever your choice, the semi-rimless design ensures that there's no frame rim to block downward view.

Wearing glasses has never been more stylish

Occasionally customers return glasses because their husbands or wives hate them, said Meltzer, owner of Spectacles in Great Neck, N.J. He’ll usually take them back, suggesting the client return with spouse in tow. If they get the choice down to two, Meltzer advises they go with the spouse’s pick — since that’s who has to look at them the most.

Buying glasses can be prickly business for the nearly 171 million American adults who, according to the Vision Council of America, wear some form of corrective lenses — eyeglasses, contacts or reading glasses. The good news: There are more choices than ever before. Eyewear, in fact, has become the hot, new accessory.

We’re in something of an ophthalmological moment, with more and more brands launching eyewear lines (including Cole-Haan, Carmen Marc Valvo, Jimmy Choo, Tiffany and Pucci), and designers (like Valvo and Michael Kors) dressing models in frames in recent runway shows.

Stars, too — Chloe Sevigny, Jennifer Garner, Johnny Depp, even “Speed Racer’s” Emile Hirsch — are popping up bespectacled in the pages of magazines and gossip columns. “Saturday Night Live” alum Tina Fey became a smart-girl sex symbol with her specs. And “American Idol” judge Randy Jackson is so identified with his angular frames he launched his own line this spring.

“My eyewear is a part of my look and personality,” said Jackson. “Eyeglasses aren’t only for seeing, but for looking good. The days of being called ‘four eyes’ are out.”

“I attribute it to the political atmosphere today,” said Robert Marc, a designer of sleek, upscale frames. “With the upcoming elections and debates about the economy, the environment and the war, everyone wants to look cerebral and `in the know.’’”

Glasses can also express one’s style and creativity. “Eyewear is the new scarf, the new tie,” notes trend consultant Tom Julian, of the Tom Julian Group in Manhattan. “Think left brain/right brain — if a purse or watch used to do a power thing, glasses do the creative thing.”

Technology, too, he adds, “has helped spur interest in frames.” Advances in laminates allow for saturated, bold colors; lasers cut out or etch intricate designs on temples; and jewels and crystals offer bling.

Shades of summer

From goggles to rimless study glasses, designer boutiques are spilling with eyewear options this summer. It’s time to say ‘Eye do’ to sunglasses

Jimmy Choo
If exclusivity is anything to go by, eyewear from Jimmy Choo has made a smashing debut this year. With Choo, sunglasses only get bigger. Their Boo and Kat styles are perfect for those who love to remain incognito—even Jennifer Lopez is hiding her tired eyes behind them. Mostly oversized frames in red, topaz and pink, they even come with Swarovski detailing to add some glitter. Sex up your eyes with knotted snake effect of their JJ sunglasses (This style appears in their sandals too). A one-time splurge is guaranteed to get the twinkle back in many an eye.

Bottega Veneta
Through Bottega Veneta sunglasses, the world is definitely rosy. Aviator shades command as much attention as the bags at the Italian design brand this season. They command a stiff price too — walk into a store only if Rs 55,000 is not too much to spare. With their signature weave design; these handcrafted aviators come in earthy frames of old bronze and copper. Also, you can brighten up your days with their Gray Gradient sunglasses that are a winner. All their pairs come in a lovely case with the 'intrecciato' woven leather, so it's like buying two beautiful things for the price of one. And yes, each pair of sunglasses comes with a detachable leather cord so that you can comfortably wear them around your neck as well.

Gucci
Stabbing would be fashionable if women needed a prescription to wear Gucci eyewear. Retro looks with Lolita-heart glasses and tortoiseshell borders have made a serious comeback. Frames of Gucci's Spring Summer 2008 collection are a cure for sore eyes. The Black Horse Pit and the buckle frames are ones to watch out for. Mauves, reds, purples and yellows sit pretty on shelves and prettier on noses. No wonder our fashionistas have already created a demand-supply deficit as far as the sole Swarovski-studded pair in the collection goes.

Roberto Cavalli
Some summers are hot enough for a chic European look that demands a fabulous pair of Roberto Cavalli sunglasses. Aviator style glasses rule here too. Unlike his fixation with Swarovski and encrusted diamantes last year, these aviators feature metal stud details on the arms and bridge. It's hard to miss the meticulous detail in the laser inscribed logo on the side. Like every year, Cavalli's premiere couture line is sure to make heads turns.

Rating: Very good

At Shoppers Stop and leading optical boutiques

Moschino
Moschino's latest line leaves one spoilt for choice. It has 24 ophthalmic frames and 24 sunglasses in plastic and metal. One can tell Moschino by graphic icons like the heart, which appears predominantly throughout the collection, often embellished with Swarovski crystals. Other trademark motifs include peace symbols, question marks and studs. Colours range from bronze, gold, palladium, ruthenium, brown, black and ivory to Moschino favourite reds, blues and leopard prints.

Kavita Chougule
I have checked out the Jimmy Choo sunglasses online and found them great but right now, I am in love with my Tom Ford’s. They may be next, considering I buy myself a new pair every two-three months.

Mandira Bedi
I feel best behind very dark, huge sunglasses. Usually, it’s a pair of DKNY that I splurge on.

Maria Goretti
A classic pair of Gucci is a must-have. Although I have branded shades, I also have a stock of cheap but good sunglasses too. I have a tendency to lose them so they’re perfect.

The eyes have it!

Sunglasses are not for summers only anymore. Yet, it's mostly this season when brands launch their new collections and woo buyers. This summer promises to be no different — only the collections are bigger, better and costlier! Take a look at these latest lines available in the market which may just catch your eye, literally, this season!

Choosing Choo
There is a plethora of high-end brands to choose from. Apart from usual suspects like Fendi, Just Cavalli and Gucci this season, go look at Jimmy Choo as well. Well, Choo has launched its collection of sunglasses for the first time in the country. The shades are available in various shapes, sizes and colours though, of course, the most famous styles that you could opt for may be the oversized 1970s-80s look or Choo's "Rock" model that comes in a square frame, embellished with square Swarovski crystal studs. Price: Rs 18,500 onwards.

Burgundy is cool
Fendi, meanwhile, has brought its Selleria collection available in three colours —black, green and burgundy. The glasses are available in two shapes, small and oversized. The sunglasses come packaged in special Roman leather cases. Price: Rs 16,000 and above. Gucci's summer-spring collection is also available in the meanwhile and the range starts from Rs 15,000. Just Cavalli too has launched its Aviators for men, using tones like burgundy and brown and colder hues like blue. The rims of these glasses are in gold, bronze, black and silver. Price: Rs 8,000 onwards. If you like the retro look, Bvlgari has launched its 1960s collection and old favourite Ray Ban too has launched a limited edition collection of its famous Aviators range. Price: Rs 21,000 onwards.

The sun collection
Dolce&Gabbana's new collection is elegant, and the luxury element is understated with logos hidden inside the arms. On the other hand, there are sparkling decorations that heed to the design. Six unique models for men and women are available. Distributed by Luxottica, available at all leading optical outlets.

Summer sun can play havoc with your skin and eyes

Unprotected eyes and skin, the most sensitive body parts, are at the peril of damage as the amount of dangerous ultraviolet (UV) radiation increases in the summer sunlight.
The rays are harmful to human health, but considered the most damaging to unprotected eyes and skin, especially in the summer months when the UV radiation is at maximum levels in the UAE.

The UV radiation starts increasing in May and reaches its maximum level in July and August. It falls to minimum levels in December.
The high radiation time is noon. This seasonal UV increase is due to rays which filter through the protective ozone layer that absorbs much of this dangerous radiation. The UV rays are emitted by the Sun.
Most people, said experts, think UV rays are harmful only to their skin, but they are highly damaging to eyes.

Around 99 per cent of the radiation is absorbed by the anterior structures of the eye but some of it does reach the light-sensitive retina.
"Just like skin gets burnt by UV radiation, the eye can also suffer damage," said Dr Riaz Ahmad Minhas, a physician at the Emirates Clinic and Medical Centre in Al Ain. The effects of UV radiation are more insidious and detrimental to the eye than had been suspected previously, he noted.

Any factor that increases sunlight exposure to the eyes increases the risk of ocular damage from UV radiation. Individuals whose work or play ensures lengthy exposure to sunlight are at greatest risk, he said.

The latest research on animals and fish has shown premature ageing of the lens has long been associated with UV radiation.
"In the light of these findings, the experts suggest that medical practitioners should not hesitate to prescribe UV filters or appropriate sunglasses," said Dr Minhas.

He also suggests that UAE authorities should make it mandatory for companies to provide sunglasses for their field workers among other safety measures.
Dr Shabbir Saif Al Deen, an eye specialist at Al Musalla Medical Centre in Bur Dubai, said a wide-brimmed hat or cap will block roughly 50 per cent of UV radiation and reduce UV that may enter above or around the glasses.

"Ultraviolet absorbing eyewear provides the greatest measure of UV protection, particularly if it has a wraparound design to limit the entry of peripheral rays," he said.
All types of eyewear including prescription spectacles and contact lenses should absorb the entire spectrum, he added.

"These glasses must specify how much UV protection they provide."
The eye specialist also pointed out that the onset of presbyopia (inability to see close objects) occurs five years earlier in the Gulf region than in other climates.
He said many labourers in the UAE suffer from photokeratitis. It is sunburn of the cornea, resulting from excessive exposure to sunlight.

What to avoid: Taking precaution
* Wear specified sunglasses even on cloudy days

* Use dark curtains during daytime in homes having large windows

* Undergo regular eye tests to maintain their health
* Reduce the amount of time spent in the sunlight
* Avoid going to beach or boating and fishing during peak radiation time
* Do not wear short sleeve shirts
* Use sun block cream, protective clothes and hat before going out
* Drink plenty of water

Lacoste celebrates 75th anniversary in style

Lacoste marks their 75th anniversary in 2008 with a limited edition capsule eyewear collection for men and women featuring the original crocodile logo with a contemporary twist on products and packaging.

For men, a dynamic rounded shaped lens with a vintage touch lends this distinctive model a prominent, expressive character. The metal bar integrated on the top rim as well as a double bridge combined with filigree metal temples affords a lightweight sporty finish. With an understated tone on tone logo embossed on the temples, the men’s sunglasses are available in white, black and brown colourways.

The soft angular model for women projects an image that is both classic and fashionable – in keeping with LACOSTE’s timeless style. A distinctive double-layered acetate with warm accents in black and white colourways completes the look. The silver metal crocodile inlet on the temple emphasizes brand consciousness, while the stylish metal ring on the end tip highlights the sporting heritage of the product. These glamorous women’s sunglasses come in white, black and beige.

Christophe Pillet, Creative Consultant for LACOSTE eyewear comments: “These sunglasses are true contemporary objects composed with some vintage ingredients. To commemorate our anniversary, each pair of sunglasses comes with a specially designed sunglass case and lens cloth.”

All items in the 75th anniversary collection feature a distinguishing logo different to the original crocodile mark: a silver grey three-ball design which features LACOSTE in the first ball, the original crocodile logo in the centre ball, and finally ‘75 Sport Elegance’, which is the theme of this special birthday celebration.

The limited edition eyewear range will be priced from £110 and is part of a wider ‘capsule collection’ of clothing, bags, footwear, watches and eyewear to celebrate LACOSTE’s 75th anniversary. All designs in the eyewear collection embrace the LACOSTE lifestyle which encompasses elegance, refinement and comfort as well as a dedication to quality and innovation.

With a contemporary sport-elegant feel, the stylish collection houses a selection of timeless designs and stunning colours for women and men.

Cool shades for summer

Latest sunglasses run from big frames and retro styles to bifocals and eco-friendly ones.

With the summer sun blazing, a new pair of sunglasses would come in handy right now. But here's a tidbit from Sunglass Association of America vice president Melanie Martin: That old pair will continue to work just fine.

Sunglasses don't lose their potency over time, so a pair that guarantees 100 percent UV protection will continue to guard against the sun's harmful rays.

Of course, practicality and fashion passion are different. Sunglasses are increasingly considered the ultimate fashion accessory.

"There's a little bit of mystery behind someone who's wearing a pair of dark glasses," said Marianne Kotzbauer, director of frames management at Sunglass Hut. "You come out of your shell a little bit when you have a pair of fun sunglasses on. It's all about attitude. You put on a pair of aviators, and it's your mood for the day. When you want to glam it up, you put on a big oversize plastic (pair). It depends on the look and lifestyle you're trying to create."

If you want to look cool this summer, try these trends on for size:

Think big
When it comes to sunglasses, everything really is bigger in Texas. Oversize frames are in, although they may look flatter and wrap around your face less than in previous seasons.

"It's the first thing people notice, so the larger, the better," said Tina Ozcelik, buyer at Eye Elegance. "If you see a woman in a convertible going down the freeway, she's not going to be wearing little glasses. She's wearing big plastic. It's more of a glamour look."

Besides making a fashion statement, oversize frames cover a larger portion of the face — a big plus for aging baby boomers. With big sunglasses, Martin said, "I feel like the skin around my eyes is more protected and I'm getting fewer wrinkles. It's a bit of an anti-aging device, and we all like that."

Go retro
Ray-Ban Wayfarers, which first appeared in 1952 but soared in popularity after Tom Cruise wore them 25 years ago in the film Risky Business, are back again. "But they're not your father's sunglasses," Kotzbauer said.

While the classic shape remains, the new Wayfarers come in a variety of candy-colored shades as well as stark white or gray and two-tone styles (black with red at the top, for example, or a purple lens with burgundy arms).

"It's a great unisex look," Kotzbauer said.

Nearly every eyewear designer is offering versions of another '80s relic — aviator specs. The gold rim look from another Cruise movie, Top Gun, remains a classic. Updated styles for men and women feature a double bridge across the top, sterling silver detailing or mirror metallics. Prada showcases a pair of aviators with red metal sides, while the Cartier Santos Dumont aviator is made of platinum and wood.

Gradient lenses, which are darker at the top and lighter at the bottom, also enhance the new look of aviators and Wayfarers. "The gradient lens softens the overall appearance, and it's very sexy," Kotzbauer said.

Note, however: The gradient lens is primarily a fashion look. While many people believe a darker lens protects their eyes, Martin says the tint has no effect on UV protection.

Stealth wealth
Texans love flashing designer names on the arms of their sunglasses. "They want everybody to know they're wearing Prada, or Dolce & Gabbana, or Versace," Kotzbauer said.

Even so, many of the new styles are toned down from previous seasons. Embellishment is more understated, and logos are often incorporated in creative ways. A pair of Versace sunglasses highlights that label's trademark Medusa figure rather than the brand name, while the Chanel logo is studded in small crystals.

"Embellishment is still there, but it's not as much over-the-top bling, bling," Martin said. "It's a little more tastefully done."

Eco-trends
Concern for the environment is showing up in earth-tone shades like olive greens and subtle browns as well as lush, eye-popping "rainforest" colors of deep green and plum. Faux wood, bamboo, tortoise shell plastic and animal prints also reflect the natural look. But Martin said it's a little soon to find sunglasses made of recycled plastic and other eco-friendly materials. Expect such products in the next few years.

Add a reader
Maui Jim recently introduced sunglasses with built-in bifocals. The line, called Maui Readers, allows its wearers (are you reading, baby boomers?) to read or text at the beach or pool without having to carry another pair of reading glasses. What a relief!