by Colleen Stout | Jan 19, 2023 | Eyewear, Trends
Eyewear is so much more than just a necessity to correct your eyesight. It’s an integral part of your wardrobe. Stylish eyewear helps pull together an outfit. It also makes a statement about who you are and shows off your unique fashion sense. Wearing up-to-date glasses with current styles may give you a more youthful appearance. Frame designs have come a long way from the old-fashioned spectacles of the past. Today everyone can find eyeglasses that flatter and fit their personality. The new year is an excellent time to refresh your look with a pair of new specs. Here’s what’s trending in eyewear for 2023.
Eco-Friendly – Many companies are emphasizing eco-friendly eyewear. They want to increase sustainability and reduce their carbon footprint. By doing this, eyewear companies are incorporating recycled materials, natural materials like wood, and bio-acetate. Zeal Optics is one example. They manufacture eyeglasses from a plant-based material called Z-Resin. You can feel good about making an ethical eyewear purchase as a consumer.
That 70s Vibe – What goes around comes around! When it comes to eyewear, the 1970s are back in fashion. This year you’ll see large, chunky, plastic frames with many angles. Aviators are another throwback from the 70s making a comeback. This is thanks to the popularity of the new Top Gun movie. Tinted lenses from the same decade are also on the horizon. Red, yellow, and orange are on tap to be the most popular color choices.
Sporty Styles – Sporty and athletic-inspired specs are appearing in people’s eyewear choices. Think wrap-around type sunglasses worn by cyclists or beach volleyball players. This is a fashionable and practical choice as more and more folks venture outdoors after pandemic lockdowns. These athletic glasses protect your eyes and stay put through most physical activities.
Cat Eye – Cat eye frames are another blast from the past making a return. This classic style from the 1950s and 60s gives you an old Hollywood glam aesthetic, but they’re also playful enough to go with casual outfits. Some people now call them harlequin glasses because they mimic masquerade masks.
Simple Metal Frames – Minimalists are choosing delicate metal frames with thin lines. Silver or black are popular color choices. They won’t draw as much attention as more substantial frames. They also compliment a face with delicate features.
Timeless Black Frames – Black frames never go out of fashion. The color is always chic and goes with everything, so you don’t have to worry if they match your outfit. You can find a black frame in almost every material type and style, from sophisticated to bohemian.
Geometric Shapes – If you want glasses that are a little more daring, go with frames in a geometric shape. Round, rectangular, and hexagons are the most popular shapes. They’re usually wired frames in silver or gold but can also be found in plastics. They’ll definitely make you stand out from the crowd.
Pastels – Pastel colors are showing up a lot in eyewear. Light greens, blues, and pinks are the most common shades. Often the frames are translucent, giving a subtle pop of color. Choose a shade that highlights your eye color or compliments your skin tone.
Stop by the Sunglass Shoppe, and we’ll help you select on-trend, comfortable, flattering eyewear.
by Colleen Stout | Dec 15, 2022 | Travel
If you want to hit the slopes this winter, head to Northern Michigan, where you’ll find some of the best skiing in the Midwest.
Michigan is second only to New York for the state with the most ski resorts. Some of the best are right here in Northern Michigan. The ski season generally gets underway in late November and runs through mid-April. It’s weather dependent, of course. The season length can vary by a week or two.
The Highlands at Harbor Springs
Skiiers and snowboarders are welcome at The Highlands at Harbor Springs. It’s home to 435 skiable acres and features Michigan’s longest ski run. They offer 53 beautifully groomed downhill runs. Snowboarders have access to four world-class terrain parks. The Austrian-American SnowSports Academy provides lessons for all ages and skill levels.
There are plenty of other snow activities for those who don’t ski. Fat tire biking, tubing, and snowshoeing are a few of the other winter activities available. For accommodations, choose from condos, private homes, and traditional lodge rooms. The onsite restaurants include both casual and fine dining options.
Boyne Mountain Resort
Boyne Mountain in Boyne Falls has 60 downhill ski runs. Snowboarders enjoy seven different terrain parks. Their state-of-the-art snowmaking guns guarantee you have a deep base to run on no matter what Mother Nature decides to do. If you’re a beginner, take advantage of their customized lessons for skiers and snowboarders of all ages. They also offer advanced classes for those with more experience on the slopes. If skiing isn’t your thing, there’s still plenty to keep you busy. Try your hand at ice skating, fat tire biking, horseback riding, and more.
There are plenty of ways to warm up after you’re done enjoying the snow at Boyne Moutain. The temperature is always a balmy 84 degrees inside the Avalanche Bay Indoor Waterpark, the largest indoor waterpark in Michigan. You will find fun for the whole family, including six waterslides, a children’s pool, a surf simulator, and a hot tub. Adults can relax at the resort spa. Pamper yourself with a massage, facial, or body treatment. A variety of lodges, cabins, villas, and hotel rooms provide a comfortable stay for everyone.
Nub’s Nob Ski Area
Nub’s Nob Ski Area in Harbor Springs has won awards for having the best corduroy snow slopes in the Midwest. Skiers enjoy 53 ski slopes and three separate peaks. Their longest run is ⅞ of a mile long. The highest vertical drop is 427 feet. Snowboarders have access to three terrain parks. Snow is plentiful since 97 percent of their 248 acres are covered by snowmaking machines. A free 275,000-square-foot Beginner Area is open for anyone with proper snow equipment. If you’ve never skied before, it’s a great way to try it out. Nub’s hosts several popular events throughout the season, including the Nub’s Nob Open, Speed Series, and the annual Mardi Gras celebration. Two lodges offer onsite dining, a warm fire, and restrooms. While accommodations aren’t available onsite, Petoskey and Harbor Springs hotels are close by.
by Colleen Stout | Nov 17, 2022 | Eye Health
Wearing sunglasses in the summer when the sun is at its brightest makes sense. But did you know you should wear sunglasses in the winter too? Even on overcast days? That’s right. You need to protect your eyes with sunglasses 365 days a year.
U.V. Rays
The sun emits U.V. rays all of the time, even when it’s cloudy. U.V. rays are a type of radiation. They’re strongest on a clear summer day but also around on a dreary wintry day. We’ve known for many years that U.V. rays cause damage to the skin, which can lead to premature aging and even cancer. That’s why it’s so important to wear sunscreen during outdoor activities. Now we’re learning that U.V. rays have the same harmful effect on the eyes.
Eye Damage
Every part of the eye is susceptible to damage from U.V. rays. Macular degeneration, cataracts, and damage to the cornea can all result from too much sun exposure. Cancer in and around the eyes is another risk. U.V. rays can also damage the eyelids and lead to wrinkles and even dry eye syndrome. A pair of sunglasses with U.V. protection can help prevent adverse effects from sun exposure.
Snow Blindness
In the winter, snow blindness is another way U.V. rays damage the eyes. All that beautiful white snow and shiny ice act like a mirror, reflecting sunlight and U.V. rays back into your eyes. This can give your eyes a sunburn which leads to temporary snow blindness. Symptoms of snow blindness include sensitivity to light, burning eyes, a gritty feeling in the eyes, halos around lights, and blurry vision. It can last up to a week, but long-term could lead to permanent vision loss. UV-blocking sunglasses can prevent snow blindness.
Glare
Glare is another problem that’s common in winter. The sun’s low angle at that time of year makes glare worse. Sun glare is dangerous because it can prevent you from being able to see. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says about 9,000 car accidents a year result from drivers blinded by the glare. Glare is also dangerous on ski slopes and can lead to serious injury. Polarized sunglasses reduce the effects of glare, helping you see clearly in any situation.
Wind
The wind picks up in the winter, especially in Northern Michigan near Lake Michigan. The cold winter wind dries your eyes out quickly. Contact lens wearers especially need to protect their eyes from drying out. Wind can also blow dirt and other debris into your eyes. Sunglasses block the wind and keep eyes comfortable.
Distorted Vision
Sunglasses will also help you see better in general in the winter months. Light-reflecting off the snow, glare, the lower angle of the sun, and wind cause you to squint. It can also cause your eyes to water. That means you can’t see clearly, which can lead to accidents. Squinting can also cause eye strain and headaches. The right pair of sunglasses will ensure you have a healthy, clear view in the winter.
If you want to ensure your eyes are comfortable and protected this winter, stop by the Sunglass Shoppe, and we’ll help you find the right sunglasses to fit your personality and lifestyle.
by Colleen Stout | Oct 21, 2022 | Travel
It’s fall in Northern Michigan, and we don’t think there’s a better place to enjoy sweater weather than the Petoskey area! Here are five of the best things to do near Petoskey in the fall.
The Tunnel of Trees
The Tunnel of Trees is just North of Petoskey on M-119. This famous road twists and turns along a route covered by a thick tree canopy. It’s beautiful any time of year, but especially spectacular when leaves change color in the fall. It also offers amazing views of Lake Michigan. A section of the road follows a ridge, rising high above the lake and Little Traverse Bay. The route takes you through the lakeshore town of Harbor Springs, where you’ll find unique places to shop. Keep heading north, and you’ll come to Pond Hill Farm. They have a vineyard and wine-tasting room as well as a family-friendly cafe. Pumpkins and gourds are available at the farm market. Further, up the road, you’ll come to the 1930s-era Good Hart General Store. Shop for souvenirs, and be sure to grab a treat from their much-loved bakery. M-119 ends at Cross Village, the site of one of Michigan’s earliest settlements. Stop at Cross Village Park for a stroll along the beach.
Take a Wine Tour
Northern Michigan is home to one of the unique wine regions in the country. The cold winters and proximity to Lake Michigan create an unusual climate that allows them to produce wines from specially cultivated cold-hardy grapes. They also produce various fruit wines from the abundant orchards that thrive along the lakeshore. There are several wineries just outside Petoskey. Enjoy a fall day in the Michigan countryside, taking in the colors and visiting the local tasting rooms to sample wines you won’t find anywhere else. Many of the wineries offer food and live entertainment as well. Visit petoskey.wine to find out more.
Boyne Mountain Resort
In the winter Boyne Moutain Resort is a paradise for skiers and snowboarders. But there’s a lot to do in the fall too. With acres of forest and hills, it’s a great place to take in the beauty of fall in Northern Michigan. The scenic chairlift ride gives you a panoramic view of the valley and the stunning fall foliage. The more adventurous can zipline through the tree canopy and across the ski slopes. Brand new to Boyne this year is Skybride Michigan. The World’s longest-timbered suspension bridge that spans 1,200 feet across the valley. You’ll ride a ski lift to access the 118-foot-high bridge, with even more incredible views of the fall landscape.
Petoskey Gaslight District
The historic Gaslight District is a charming shopping and dining area in downtown Petoskey. Named one of the Best Small Towns in America by Smithsonian Magazine, it’s a wonderful place to spend a fall day. Enjoy the colorful trees and crisp air while strolling from shop to shop. With many unique stores and boutiques, you’re sure to find something special to take home for yourself or a loved one. Warm up and fill up in one of several local eateries offering everything from pizza to sushi to craft beer.
Bayfront Park
Walking distance from the Gaslight District, Petoskey’s Bayfront Park sits on the shores of Little Traverse Bay. There’s nothing quite like Lake Michigan in the fall when big, blue waves roll in against the backdrop of an autumn sky and colorful trees. Stroll along the park’s waterfront, see the famous clocktower and pier, and search for Petoskey stones on the rocky stretch of the beach. In the evening, take in an amazing fall sunset over the lake.
by Colleen Stout | Sep 27, 2022 | Uncategorized
Krewe Eyewear is one of our favorite brands here at The Sunglass Shoppe. We love that they are an independent eyewear company that takes inspiration from the culture in its home city. We think you will love Krewe Eyewear too! Here are five reasons we believe Krewe Eyewear is one of the best brands for eyeglasses and sunglasses.
Inspired by New Orleans
Krewe Eyewear founder Stirling Barrett started Krewe Eyewear in his hometown of New Orleans. The brands’ modern, iconic frames are inspired by the rich culture of the Big Easy. The energy and diversity of the city is translated into their eyewear designs, making them unique.
Invests in the Community
From the start, Barrett wanted to use Krewe eyewear to invest in New Orleans. It was important to him to contribute to the economy in his hometown by headquartering and manufacturing his eyewear there. He also has two brick-and-mortar stores in the city. His company continues to put down roots in New Orleans and provide jobs locally.
Gives Back to the Community
Barrett took his mission to give back to the community of New Orleans a step further by starting a non-profit organization called the Krewe Foundation. Through this, he provides local disadvantaged high school students with free prescription eyewear. The foundation has touched the lives of hundreds of students through the program.
High-Quality
Krewe makes high-quality, small-batch, hand-crafted frames. Only the best materials are used in the manufacturing process. The use of premium metals, plant-based acetate, and bio-plastic means the frames are ethically sourced and produce as little waste as possible. The lenses are shatter-resistant and offer 100% UVA and UVB protection. Special anti-smudge and anti-scratch coatings ensure that your view is always clear. After production, each pair of Krewe eyewear is put through a 100-point quality check to make sure customers only get the very best.
The Second Chance Program
Every pair of Krewe Eyewear is backed by the Second Chance Program. The first time a pair of frames breaks or is damaged Krewe will repair or replace them for free. After the first time, Krewe will repair or replace your eyewear for a small standard fee. They want to make sure you are back in your Krewes as soon as possible.
Visit The Sunglass Shoppe to learn more about Krewe Eyewear. We have four Michigan locations in Petoskey, Traverse City, Charlevoix, and Saugatuck. We’re happy to tell you more about this brand we love. Come view our collection of Krewe Eyewear and try on a pair to experience the quality and style for yourself.
