A man wearing the right shades looks like he means business. But he also needs to choose eyewear that’s in style—as opposed to what was dope when “Hungry Like the Wolf” was in the top 10. These four new designs for spring convey the perfect mix of style and attitude whether out on the water or just walking around downtown.
Essential Beach Eyewear
Maui Jim Kawika – $289
A great blend of retro and modern, Kawika’s browline frame first gained popularity in the 50s and 60s. The rectangular shape flatters a variety of face types whether angular, round or in-between. The lenses have Maui Jim’s signature glare-blocking technology, renowned for deflecting rays without obstructing clear sight.
Available at Precision Eye Care, Huntington, (631) 462-2020
Come Fly With Me
Haydon 2042 Dita – $500
These new squared-off aviator-esque shades are enhanced by an acetate overlay. They take a more classic approach than some of the company’s dramatic styles but maintain the intricate designs and premium materials the brand is known for. They feature a thin wire frame built with lightweight titanium finished with smart coin edging that emits a wonderfully jewel-like aura.
Available at Eyes on Broadway, Hewlett, (516) 295-8600
Stylin’ Altruism
Rising Sun Glasses Hero – $289
The new color therapy lenses by WearLite make these Hero glasses mighty mighty, a weight you can feel in your fingers as well as on your face. This Swiss-based company donates a portion of their proceeds from their high-end, stylish shades to assist vision-impaired people in developing countries.
Available online only at risingsunglasses.com
Driving Force
Persol 714 Steve McQueen – $410
Persols, designed in the early 20th century in Italy for pilots and sports car drivers, quickly caught on. Known for their sturdy build and signature curly-cue bridge, their legend truly began when captured in the 1961 classic Divorce Italian Style. Today they’re worn by James Bond actors Daniel Craig and Pierce Brosnan.
Available at Optical Heights, Roslyn Heights, (516) 625-2555
Add Some Bling To Your Spring
Ray-Ban RB3025K – $3200.00
There’s gold in them thar special edition Aviator Ray-Bans—18k, to be exact. (And no, there isn’t an extra zero in the price.) They’re enriched with G-15 neophan polarized lenses, have a unique serial number embedded on the inside of the temple and a gold hallmark engraved on the bottom of the bridge. There are only 1,200 pairs of these shades being made worldwide. Price includes a special jewelry box leather case.
Available online sunglasshut.com
words: josh max | photo: kenny janosick