by Maddie Shelton | Jun 7, 2024 | Eye Health, Eyewear, Trends
Father’s Day is coming up fast, and it’s the perfect time to show appreciation for the fathers in your life. This year, why not gift something that includes style, functionality, and thoughtfulness? At The Sunglass Shoppe, we have 40+ collections of eyewear that will make any dad feel special and look sharp. Here are reasons our eyewear collections make the perfect Father’s Day gift and some ideas to help you shop.
Stylish Designs for Dad
Whether your dad prefers a classic look or something more modern, our unique collections have something for everyone. Our frames come in various styles, including OG aviators, sleek rectangular frames, and trendy round sunglasses. Each collection ensures that your dad will look fashionable and feel confident.
- Classic Go-Tos: For the dad who loves timeless styles, the Ray-Ban collection offers sophisticated designs that never go out of fashion.
- Modern Looks: If your dad likes to keep up with the latest fashion trends, the Tom Ford collection will impress.
- Versatile Options: The Maui Jim or Zeal Optics collections can easily transition from a day of lawn work to a weekend outing, making them perfect for every occasion. Bonus points if your dad is an outdoor enthusiast!
Unmatched Comfort and Quality
Comfort is key when it comes to sunglasses. Collaborating with collections that offer high-quality materials, these collections are comfortable for all-day wear. Your dad will appreciate the perfect fit and the craftsmanship that goes into each pair. Protecting your dad’s eyes is as important as giving him a stylish look. The Sunglass Shoppe offers prescription sunglasses with advanced lens technology to enhance vision and protect against harmful elements.
This Father’s Day, give the gift of style, comfort, and quality with a pair of sunglasses from The Sunglass Shoppe. Show your dad how much you appreciate them with a thoughtful gift that he can use daily. Visit one of our four locations in Charlevoix, Petoskey, Saugatuck, or Traverse City to find the perfect pair for your dad. Visit our optical locations in Petoskey or Traverse City to inquire about prescription lenses. Happy Father’s Day from all of us at The Sunglass Shoppe!
by Maddie Shelton | May 16, 2024 | Eye Health, Eyewear
The sun shines brighter, and the days get longer; summer is the perfect time to enjoy outdoor activities with family and friends. However, amidst the excitement, it’s crucial to prioritize your eye health. Summer poses various risks to your vision, from harmful UV rays to digital screens. This blog post will explore essential tips for preventing sun damage and eyestrain during summer.
Understanding Sun Damage
The sun emits ultraviolet (UV) rays, which can cause harm to your eyes if left unprotected. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can increase the risk of cataracts, macular degeneration, and additional eye conditions. Therefore, proper eye protection is essential outdoors, especially during peak sunlight hours.
Tip: Wear Sunglasses with UV Protection
Invest in quality sunglasses that offer 100% UV protection. Look for sunglasses labeled “UV400” or “100% UV protection” to ensure maximum shielding from UVA and UVB rays. Wrap-around styles provide added coverage by blocking sunlight from entering from the sides.
Tip: Choose Polarized Lenses
Consider sunglasses with polarized lenses, which reduce glare and improve clarity. Polarized lenses are particularly beneficial for driving, boating, and outdoor sports, as they enhance contrast and depth perception while reducing eyestrain.
Tip: Wear a Wide-Brimmed Hat
Complement your sunglasses with a stylish wide-brimmed hat to provide additional shade and protection for your eyes and face. This combination helps minimize direct sunlight exposure and reduces the risk of sunburn on your eyelids and surrounding skin; the excellent fashion statement is a plus!
Preventing Eyestrain
In today’s digital age, prolonged screen time has become a common cause of eyestrain as well as discomfort. Whether scrolling through your smartphone or binge-watching your favorite TV series, excessive screen use can lead to digital eyestrain.
Tip: Practice the 20-20-20 Rule
To reduce eye strain, follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. This simple practice helps alleviate eye discomfort and prevents eyes from becoming overly strained from focusing on screens for periods of time.
Tip: Adjust Screen Settings
Optimize the settings on your devices to reduce eyestrain. Adjust the brightness, contrast, and font size to create comfortable viewing. Additionally, consider using blue light filters or screen glare protectors to minimize glare and filter out harmful blue light.
Tip: Take Regular Breaks
Schedule regular breaks throughout the day to rest your eyes and prevent discomfort. Use these breaks to stretch, blink, and refocus your eyes on distant objects to reduce eyestrain and maintain visual comfort.
Your eyes are precious, and protecting them should be a top priority, especially during summer. Following these essential tips for summer eye health, you can enjoy the sunshine while safeguarding your vision from sun damage and eyestrain. Remember to wear sunglasses with UV protection, take breaks from digital screens, and prioritize your overall eye health all year round. You can keep your eyes healthy and happy throughout the summer and beyond with proper care and attention. If you want to protect your eyes with trendy sunglasses, head to the trusty Sunglass Shoppe in Charlevoix, Traverse City, Petoskey, and Saugatuck!
by Maddie Shelton | Mar 27, 2024 | Eye Health, News
As the celestial event of a lifetime approaches, few phenomena are as awe-inspiring as a total solar eclipse. On April 8th, 2024, the skies will treat us to a breathtaking display, offering a rare opportunity to witness the moon’s shadow perfectly align with the sun. At The Sunglass Shoppe, we’re passionate about protecting your eyes and dedicated to helping you experience the universe’s wonders safely. This blog post will explore the upcoming total solar eclipse and provide essential tips for enjoying this celestial spectacle while safeguarding your vision.
The 2024 Total Solar Eclipse
On April 8th, 2024, the skies will darken as a total solar eclipse sweeps across the country. This celestial event occurs when the moon passes between the Earth and the sun, casting a shadow on our planet and briefly obscuring the sun’s light. During totality, the sky transforms into an otherworldly canvas, with stars twinkling in the daytime and the sun’s corona glowing like a halo.
Experience the Eclipse Safely
While witnessing a total solar eclipse is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, it’s essential to prioritize the safety of your eyesight. Staring directly at the sun, even during an eclipse, can cause permanent damage to your eyes. Here are some tips for viewing the eclipse safely with the proper eye protection:
- Use Proper Solar Viewing Glasses: Purchase eclipse glasses that meet the ISO 12312-2 safety standard. These specially designed glasses block out harmful ultraviolet, visible, and infrared radiation, allowing you to observe the eclipse without risking damage to your eyes. Regular sunglasses will not help protect your eyes from these harmful rays.
- Inspect Your Glasses: Before the eclipse, inspect your eclipse glasses for any signs of damage or wear. Ensure that there are no scratches, holes, or wrinkles in the lenses that could affect their effectiveness.
- Keep Your Glasses On: During the phases of the eclipse, when the moon partially obscures the sun, keep your eclipse glasses on at all times when looking at the sun. Only remove them during totality, when the moon completely covers the sun. Unfortunately, it does not look like Northern Michigan is in the 2024 path of totality.
- Beware of Counterfeit Glasses: Be wary of counterfeit eclipse glasses sold by unauthorized vendors. Purchase your glasses from reputable sources to ensure their authenticity and safety. If you are in the Petoskey area, you can find the proper glasses at Grandpa Shorter’s, which are sold in-store!
At The Sunglass Shoppe, we’re passionate about protecting your eyes and enhancing your viewing experience during these experiences. As you witness the 2024 total solar eclipse, remember to prioritize eye safety and be prepared with certified solar viewing glasses. With the proper eye protection, you can enjoy the celestial spectacle safely and marvel at the wonders of the universe. After all, this will not happen again until 2044! Stay up-to-date on the latest eclipse news on NASA’s website. Safe travels and happy eclipse watching!
by Maddie Shelton | Mar 11, 2024 | Travel
As the snow melts away and the flowers pop open, Petoskey, MI, transforms into a picturesque paradise waiting to be explored. With its charming downtown, breathtaking shoreline, and abundance of outdoor activities, springtime in Petoskey offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a tree hugger, a shopaholic, or a lover of arts and culture, here are the top five must-do activities to experience the best of Petoskey during the spring season.
Explore Petoskey State Park
Embrace the renewed energy of spring by exploring the scenic trails and sandy beaches of Petoskey State Park. Hike along the winding paths that meander through lush forests, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Stroll along the shoreline, collecting vibrant Petoskey stones washed ashore. With opportunities for picnicking, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting, Petoskey State Park is a nature lover’s oasis.
Wander Through Downtown Petoskey
Discover the charm and character of downtown Petoskey as you stroll along the quaint streets lined with boutique shops, art galleries, and cozy coffee shops. Browse unique gifts, locally made crafts, and artisanal products at the various shops, or admire the vibrant displays of art scattered throughout the area. Stop by one of the cafes or bakeries to indulge in freshly brewed coffee, decadent pastries, or farm-to-table cuisine while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of downtown Petoskey. Don’t forget to stop by and see us too!
Bike the Little Traverse Wheelway
Embark on a scenic bike ride along the Little Traverse Wheelway, a 26-mile paved trail that winds its way along the shores of Lake Michigan, connecting the towns of Charlevoix, Petoskey, and Harbor Springs. Rent a bike or bring your own and pedal past stunning vistas, charming waterfront villages, and much more. Take advantage of the scenic overlooks along the trail, perfect for snapping photos or simply taking in the beauty of the surrounding landscapes.
Visit the Odawa Casino
Experience the excitement and entertainment of the Odawa Casino, located just minutes from downtown Petoskey. Test your luck at the various slot machines and table games, or catch a live performance at the onsite entertainment venue. Indulge in delicious cuisine at one of the casino’s restaurants, offering diverse dining options. Whether you’re a seasoned gambler or just looking for a fun night out, Odawa Casino has something for everyone.
With its stunning natural beauty, charming downtown area, and diverse activities and attractions, Petoskey, MI, is the perfect destination for a springtime escape. Petoskey has it all, whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure, cultural exploration, or simply relaxation amidst breathtaking surroundings. Start planning your spring getaway to Petoskey today and discover why this enchanting destination is a must-visit during the spring season. Don’t forget to add a visit to The Sunglass Shoppe to your itinerary!
by Maddie Shelton | Feb 9, 2024 | Eyewear, Trends
As we look forward to the season change and welcome the warmth of spring, it’s time to freshen up our wardrobes with the latest styles and trends. And what better way to refresh than with a new pair of sunglasses or eyeglasses? This spring, eyewear trends are all about making a statement, from bold shapes to vibrant colors. Here are three must-have eyewear trends for spring 2024 that will elevate your look and keep you on-trend.
1. Oversized Frames
Oversized frames continue to dominate the eyewear industry for spring 2024, offering a perfect blend of style and functionality. These larger-than-life frames provide ample coverage from the sun and add a touch of glamour and sophistication to any outfit. Oversized frames offer a chic and effortless way to make a statement, whether lounging by the lakefront or strolling through the streets of downtown Petoskey. From classic square shapes to exaggerated cat-eye designs, an oversized frame suits every face shape and personal style. We recommend taking a look at the Lafont collection, which is designed in Paris with creative independence.
*Styling Tips
Pair your oversized frames with minimalist outfits for a sleek and sophisticated look, or use bold patterns and prints to make a fashion-forward statement. Feel free to experiment with different colors and textures to add contrast to your ensemble.
2. Transparent Frames
Transparent frames are back on the trending list for spring 2024, offering a modern and fresh take on classic eyewear styles. These barely-there frames add a subtle touch of sophistication to any look while allowing your features to shine. Transparent frames are versatile and effortlessly chic, making them a must-have accessory for spring. Whether you prefer soft pastel hues or bold neon shades, there’s a transparent frame to suit every taste and personality. Take a peek at the ILLA collection, which offers eclectic statement eyewear with various transparent frames in different shapes and styles.
*Styling Tips
Pair your transparent frames with neutral tones for a clean and minimalist aesthetic, or mix and match with bright colors for a playful and vibrant look. These versatile frames can be dressed up or down, making them perfect for any occasion.
3. Geometric Shapes:
Geometric shapes are taking center stage in eyewear trends for spring 2024, offering a fresh and modern twist on classic frame styles. From hexagonal sunglasses to octagonal eyeglasses, geometric frames add a bold and edgy vibe to your look. Geometric frames offer a unique and eye-catching alternative to traditional round or square shapes, allowing you to express your individuality and creativity. Whether you like sharp angles or soft curves, a geometric frame suits every style preference. Browse the Dutz collection with high-quality and versatile frames unique to your style.
*Styling Tips
Let your geometric frames be the focal point of your outfit by keeping the rest of your look simple and understated. Pair them with sleek and modern ensembles for a contemporary feel, or mix and match them with eclectic pieces for a statement look.
With spring just around the corner, now is the perfect time to update your eyewear collection with the latest trends for the season. Whether you’re a fan of oversized frames, transparent styles, or geometric shapes, there’s a trend to suit every taste and personality. Embrace the spirit of spring and elevate your look with eyewear that makes a statement and sets you apart from the rest. Swing by one of our Northern Michigan locations to browse our collections and find your spring inspiration!
