How To Look Instantly Thinner, Richer, and More Glamorous – or, Picking The Right Sunglasses

If there is one item – just one – that summer mandates you buy, it’s a pair of sunglasses. “Ah, easy,” I hear you say. Not so. Sunglasses are probably one of the least thought-about purchases we make (“Oh, sure, Wayfarers are cool,” is probably about as much thought as we put into it), but the truth is, picking out a pair of shades can make or break your style. Even more crucially, the right pair of sunglasses can make you appear slimmer, more sophisticated and perhaps even more affluent. Here’s how to get it right.

The first thing you should bear in mind when choosing your sunglasses is their shape. With sunglasses, as with eyebrows, it’s important to choose the shape that flatters your face and bone structure. For those who have no idea what I’m talking about with the latter, if you have an angular face, you should shape your brows into a smooth curve, whereas if you have a rounder face with less obvious bone structure, a more angular arch will suit you better. In the same vein, contrast is key in flattering your face: if you have a round, oval face, and/or less obvious bone structure in the face, choosing square framed sunglasses will lend flattering and slimming angles to your face. If you possess a stronger jaw line and/or more prominent cheekbones, choosing a pair of shades with round lenses with soften your angles and flatter you the best.

Cool Aviators

Cat Eyes

Square Sunglasses

So, with shape, contrast is the key to choosing sunglasses. Choosing shade, on the other hand, is the

complete opposite: sunglasses that match your complexion and hair colour are perennially the most flattering. So, blondes, choose lighter ‘almond’ coloured or light brown sunglasses, and stay away from black, opaque or dark brown shades; brunettes and raven-haired beauties, spring for the dark chocolate and classic black pairs.

And there you have it! Welcome to the VIP room.

Laura Hunter-Thomas,

Ici Fashion