With countless sunglasses options today at both high and low price points, it can be tricky deciding what’s worth your money. Designer sunglasses offer prestige and quality but come with higher price tags. Budget options are affordable while still providing eye protection.
The Appeal of Designer Eyewear
Luxury eyewear brands like Gucci, Prada, and Versace undeniably have an allure and prestige about them. Owning a pair of designer sunglasses instantly elevates your look. These iconic fashion houses offer impeccable craftsmanship and use high-end materials like acetate, ultra-light metals, and Swarovski crystals. This results in glasses with superior durability and timeless elegance.
Beyond materials, you also pay for innovations in functionality. Designers use advanced polarization, light-responsive tinting, and UV treatments to optimize visual clarity and eye protection. Branding on the arms also carries status for some. And the bold styles of luxury brands allow you to make a serious fashion statement.
Factors to Consider
With designer sunglasses retailing at $200 to $400 or more, they constitute a serious investment. Before splurging, consider how often you’ll wear them and your overall budget. Think about your lifestyle, too. If you lead an active life, budget glasses may be best since they’re more replaceable if lost or damaged. If you view sunglasses as a collectible accessory, designer may be worthwhile.
It’s also key to inspect the quality up close before purchasing rather than assuming designer automatically means superior. Assess the lens clarity, frame durability, weight and feel of the glasses in hand to gauge value. Knowing whether the quality truly aligns with the price tag helps inform your decision.
The Case for Discount Brands
If dropping several hundred dollars on sunglasses simply isn’t feasible, there are plenty of budget-friendly options that still offer style and protection. Discount brands carry fashionable glasses for under $50.
While materials and branding may not be as luxe, discount sunglasses can still have polarized lenses, UV protection, and on-trend shapes. According to the folk at Olympic Eyewear, the main benefit is not having to worry about losing or breaking an expensive pair. Cheaper glasses are also easier to amass in multiple colors and prints to match all your warm weather looks.
Try Mixing Both
Rather than viewing designer and discount as mutually exclusive, having a mix of both can give you flexibility. Invest in one high-end pair from your favorite luxury brand that will elevate everyday looks with timeless style. Then round out your sunglasses wardrobe with affordable options to keep up with trends.
Having go-to designer shades shows you appreciate quality craftsmanship, while affordable pairs allow you to experiment with bolder styles. Ultimately, sunglasses are an accessory, so buy at the price point that fits your budget and needs. Don’t assume cost directly correlates with value across the board.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, only you can decide if designer sunglasses are worth the splurge or if budget buys better suit your needs. Consider how you will realistically wear and care for your glasses. Analyze quality and craftsmanship versus cost in relation to your budget.
For most, a mix of both discount and designer pairs is optimal. Invest in a timelessly stylish designer pair, then round out your eyewear wardrobe with fun seasonal styles at lower price points. This provides versatility to both elevate your looks and keep up with trends.
Whichever shades you choose, be sure they protect your eyes with proper UV filtering. With that feature as a baseline, let your budget, needs, and personal style guide you at both ends of the pricing spectrum. Wear what flatters you and fits your lifestyle best.
