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 | 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!
by Maddie Shelton | Dec 15, 2023 | Eyewear, Holiday Love, Trends
As we enter a fresh new year, eyewear is not just about vision correction; it’s a powerful style statement. The year 2024 promises to bring exciting eyewear trends that seamlessly blend fashion and functionality. Whether you’re a trendsetter or someone looking to upgrade your eyewear game, here are the top five eyewear trends that will define 2024.
Bold and Chunky
Bold and thick, chunky frames bring a touch of glamour to any ensemble. Showcased in various shapes, from oversized cat-eyes to rectangular aviators, these frames make a stylish statement with head-turning and eye-catching designs. ILLA is the result of empowering eyewear artisans with decades of expertise to manifest their distinct vision. This exquisite eyewear collection harmonizes traditional Italian craftsmanship, cutting-edge technology, and forward-thinking fashion, creating a unique and captivating fusion.
Sustainable Chic
With sustainability becoming a prominent concern, eco-friendly eyewear is gaining heavy popularity. Expect to see frames crafted from recycled materials, biodegradable acetate, and even plant-based components. The trend goes beyond being environmentally conscious; it’s about making a fashion statement with a purpose. Nina Mûr designs and produces ethical eyeglasses from scratch in their Madrid workshop, crafting each piece individually. The fusion of quality craftsmanship and technology is evident in their approach, utilizing only the finest European components to deliver the most refined, natural wooden eyewear frames.
Vibrant Colors and Patterns
2024 is all about making a statement with bold and vibrant eyewear. Say goodbye to subtle shades; embrace frames in striking colors like electric blues, fiery reds, and lush greens. Also, unique patterns such as animal prints, geometric shapes, and abstract designs will take charge, allowing wearers to express their individuality. Characterized by originality, often iconoclastic and consistently refreshing, eyeglasses crafted by l.a. Eyeworks are instantly identifiable for their daring shapes, creative use of patterns, and vibrant color expressions.
Retro Revival
Nostalgia takes the spotlight in eyewear trends for 2024. Vintage-inspired frames from the ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s are making a strong comeback. Think oversized frames and quirky shapes that add a touch of retro glamour to your look. It’s a praise of the classics with a modernistic twist. Dutz manages the entire eyewear process, from conceptualization to component production, ensuring a premium collection of frames that offer both comfort and aesthetic appeal on any face. Through the use of allergy-friendly and robust stainless steel materials, Dutz achieves exceptional durability while also incorporating a blast-from-the-past design.
Sporty Styles
For those with an active lifestyle, sporty eyewear is the go-to trend. Expect to see lightweight frames with advanced features like UV protection, polarized lenses, and anti-glare coatings. These eyewear pieces seamlessly transition from a day on the slopes to a casual outing, combining performance with style. The Maui Jim collection is the perfect choice for those who thrive in work and play. Stylish and innovative designs with intense UV protection, compliments of the PolarizedPlus2® lens, there’s diversity in fashion and functionality.
As we make our way into 2024, eyewear trends are redefining how we view fashion and functionality. From chunky frames to sustainable choices, bold colors, retro inspirations, and sporty styles, there’s something for every styling pro. Elevate your eyewear game and embrace a fresh start with these top trends that marry innovation and aesthetics. After all, in 2024, your eyewear is not just an accessory; it’s a reflection of your visionary style. Ring in the new year by visiting The Sunglass Shoppe and find your style of sunwear and/or prescription eyewear for 2024!
by Maddie Shelton | Nov 3, 2023 | Eye Health, Eyewear
Winter’s glorious landscapes and glistening snow can create a picturesque wonderland. However, for those who spend time outdoors, this beauty often comes with a blinding challenge—snow glare. Understanding the science behind snow glare and how polarized shades can enhance visibility is essential for staying safe and thriving during winter activities.
The Science Behind Snow Glare
Snow glare, also known as snow blindness or photokeratitis, occurs when the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays are reflected off the snow’s surface. This reflection can be incredibly intense and damaging to the eyes. Snow is Mother Nature’s natural mirror, bouncing the sunlight in all directions, including directly into your eyes.
Here’s how it works:
- Reflection: When sunlight hits the snow, it bounces off the surface at multiple angles.
- Scattering: These reflected rays scatter in all directions, including directly into your eyes.
- Intensity: The intensity of snow glare can be significantly higher than the usual sunlight due to the additional reflection.
- UV Exposure: Snow glare exposes your eyes to harmful UV rays, which can cause painful damage to the cornea, just like a sunburn on the skin.
Why Polarized Sunglasses Are Essential
Polarized sunglasses are designed to combat glare by blocking polarized light, such as the light reflected off water, roads, and, in this case, snow. Here’s how they work:
- Polarization: Polarized lenses contain a specially curated filter that blocks horizontal light waves while allowing vertical waves to pass through.
- Glare Reduction: By filtering out horizontally polarized light, polarized sunglasses drastically reduce glare and reflections.
- Enhanced Clarity: These lenses improve contrast and clarity, making objects in your vision appear sharper and more defined.
- UV Protection: Besides reducing glare, polarized lenses offer 100% UV protection, safeguarding your eyes from harmful UV rays year-round.
Benefits of Polarized Sunglasses in Winter
- Improved Visibility: Polarized sunglasses improve visibility in wintry conditions by reducing the intensity of glare. This is especially vital for activities like skiing, snowboarding, and driving.
- Reduced Eye Strain: Squinting and straining your eyes to see in bright, snowy conditions can lead to eye fatigue. Polarized sunglasses reduce the need to squint, thus reducing eye strain.
- Enhanced Safety: Better visibility means safer outdoor activities. Whether hitting the slopes, driving on snow and ice-covered roads, or simply taking a winter stroll, polarized sunglasses can help prevent incidents caused by impaired vision.
- Comfort and Eye Health: Protecting your eyes from the harsh effects of snow glare not only ensures your comfort but also safeguards your eye health now and down the road. Photokeratitis, which can result from UV exposure, is painful and can temporarily affect your vision by damaging the cornea.
Our Top Picks
- Maui Jim: Maui Jim is a brand known for its high-quality polarized lenses that enhance color contrast and reduce glare, making it easier to see in bright sunlight and snow glare.
- Zeal Optics: Zeal Optics curates eco-friendly, high-quality frames ready for any winter adventure. They also provide 100% UV protection, which means they block out harmful UVA and UVB rays that can cause eye damage and increase the risk of eye diseases.
- Ray-Ban: Ray-Bans are made with high-quality polarized lenses that reduce glare and provide excellent vision on snowy days.
Understanding the science of snow glare and the benefits of polarized sunglasses is crucial for anyone spending time outdoors in the winter. These specialized sunglasses not only enhance visibility but also provide essential protection against UV radiation. When winter arrives, have a reliable pair of polarized sunglasses to enjoy the snowy wonderland while keeping your eyes safe and comfortable. Stay stylish and protected during the winter season with this essential eyewear accessory. The Sunglass Shoppe has a variety of unique and designer frames that can be fitted with polarized lenses, both prescription and non-prescription. Visit one of our four locations in Petoskey, Traverse City, and Saugatuck. We’ll help you find the right sunglasses for your lifestyle and unique personality.
by Maddie Shelton | Oct 10, 2023 | Eyewear, Trends
Just as the stars influence our personalities and destinies, they can also inspire our sense of fashion. Are you curious to know which sunglasses align best with your zodiac sign? Look no further as we embark on a cosmic journey through the eyewear universe. We will explore how your star sign traits can lead you to the ideal pair of sunnies. Whether you’re an adventurous Aries or a dreamy Pisces, we’ve got you covered.
Aries (March 21 – April 19): Dynamic and Bold
Aries individuals are known for their fearless and adventurous spirit. They gravitate toward bold and daring sunglass styles that make a statement. Think oversized frames with vibrant colors or unique geometric shapes, such as the ILLA or Sïto collections. Aries, your sunglasses should match your unstoppable energy!
Taurus (April 20 – May 20): Practical and Luxurious
Taurus signs appreciate the finer things in life, and their sunglasses are no exception. Look for classic, high-quality frames like timeless aviators or elegant tortoiseshell patterns. You can never go wrong with the infamous Ray-Ban collection! Taurus, your sunglasses should be as practical as they are luxurious.
Gemini (May 21 – June 20): Versatile and Curious
Geminis have a natural curiosity and love for versatility. Opt for sunglasses with neutral-colored lenses or frames that can be adapted to various styles. Maui Jim would be a fantastic and diverse collection! Geminis, your sunglasses should coincide with your ever-changing interests.
Cancer (June 21 – July 22): Protective and Nurturing
Cancer signs are nurturing and protective by nature. Consider sunglasses with polarized lenses or UV protection to shield your sensitive eyes. Zeal Optics offers exquisite UV protection with a fashionable touch. Look for frames with gentle curves and soft colors that reflect your caring personality.
Leo (July 23 – August 22): Confident and Dramatic
Leos love the spotlight and gravitate toward sunglasses that exude confidence and drama. Look for oversized, glamorous frames or ones adorned with bold embellishments. Consider checking out the Morel collection! Leos, your sunglasses should be as radiant as you are!
Virgo (August 23 – September 22): Practical and Detail-Oriented
Virgos appreciate practicality and attention to detail. Choose sunglasses with clean lines and minimalist designs. Focus on high-quality materials and craftsmanship. The Ovvo Optics collection creates high-performance, technologically advanced eyewear that undergoes 85 steps of craftmanship. Virgos, your sunglasses should reflect your meticulous nature.
Libra (September 23 – October 22): Harmonious and Stylish
Libras have a natural sense of style and seek harmony in all things. Opt for sunglasses that feature balanced designs, like classic wayfarers or round frames. Ray-Bans would be an excellent choice to achieve a balanced and stylish statement. Look for color combinations that complement your wardrobe effortlessly.
Scorpio (October 23 – November 21): Mysterious and Intense
Scorpios have a magnetic and intense personality. Choose sunglasses with dark, mysterious frames and tinted lenses. The State Optical Co. collection boasts many darker frames and lenses in various shapes. Embrace cat-eye or square styles that accentuate your enigmatic allure.
Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21): Adventurous and Optimistic
Sagittarians have a spirit of adventure and optimism. Go for sporty sunglasses with durable frames to keep up with your active lifestyle. Costa sunglasses are the perfect choice for those on the go, seeking thrills and high-quality durability. Look for vibrant colors that reflect your inner love for life.
Capricorn (December 22 – January 19): Practical and Disciplined
Capricorns are practical and disciplined individuals. Opt for timeless and durable sunglasses like classic aviators or rectangular frames. You can never go wrong with a pair of Oakley shades! Focus on functionality and quality that will stand the test of time.
Aquarius (January 20 – February 18): Innovative and Unique
Aquarians are known for their innovative thinking and unique style. Choose sunglasses with unconventional shapes or futuristic designs. The Nina Mûr crafts gorgeous frames from refined natural wood, various color options, and shapes. This collection is the perfect combination of innovation, design, and quality! Embrace unconventional materials that reflect your forward-thinking approach.
Pisces (February 19 – March 20): Dreamy and Compassionate
Pisceans have a dreamy and compassionate nature. Look for sunglasses with soft, flowing lines and ethereal colors. The Krewe collection offers sunglasses with an array of colors, patterns, and shapes while maintaining a delicate and classic style. Consider frames with gradient or pastel-tinted lenses that capture your empathetic spirit.
Your star sign can offer valuable insights into your personality and style preferences, even when selecting the perfect pair of sunglasses. So, the next time you’re at one of The Sunglass Shoppe’s four locations searching for eyewear, let the stars guide you toward the sunglasses that reflect your style!
415 Bridge St., Charlevoix, MI 49720
325 E. Lake St., Petoskey, MI 49770
222 Butler St., Saugatuck, MI 49453
137 E. Front St., Traverse City, MI 49686
by Maddie Shelton | Aug 8, 2023 | Eye Health, Eyewear
We have entered a digital era where screen time has increased dramatically. Although these advancements have enhanced how we work, play, and communicate, there are some concerns when it comes to our eyes. Understanding and preventing digital eyestrain can help you avoid discomfort and protect your vision. Join us as we explain digital eyestrain, the symptoms, and tips to keep your eyes healthy in a technologically progressive age.
What is digital eyestrain?:
Digital eyestrain encompasses various vision-related issues arising from the use of digital devices like computers, smartphones, tablets, and e-readers. As we participate in screen time for extended periods, our eyes constantly focus and refocus, which can result in discomfort and strain. The overall main contributing factors to digital eyestrain are:
- Prolonged screen time: When spending long periods looking at a screen with no break, our eyes work overtime to maintain focus.
- Blue light exposure: Digital screens emit high-energy blue light, which can penetrate the eye deeply, cause eye fatigue, and disrupt sleep patterns.
- Screen glare and reflections: Glare caused by less-than-ideal lighting conditions and screen reflections puts added strain on our eyes as they struggle to decipher images.
- Small text and fonts: Squinting to read smaller text or fonts can cause strain to the eyes.
Recognizing symptoms of digital eyestrain:
The symptoms of digital eyestrain include eye fatigue, dryness, redness, burning sensation, headaches, blurred vision, and discomfort in the neck and shoulders. When detected early on, discomfort or the progression of discomfort can be avoided. If you are experiencing symptoms of digital eyestrain, consider contacting your ophthalmologist.
Understanding the 20-20-20 rule:
The 20-20-20 rule is an effective preventive measure before symptoms arise. The 20-20-20 rule suggests taking a 20-second break every 20 minutes to focus on something 20 feet away to reduce eye strain and fatigue caused by prolonged screen use. This concept is easy yet effective when considering the health of your eyes and comfort.
Ergonomics and workspace optimization:
An eye-friendly workspace is a setup that prioritizes optimal vision comfort and reduces eye strain. It includes proper lighting, screen positioning at eye level, minimizing glare, and maintaining a comfortable working distance from the screen to promote healthy eye habits during long hours of computer use. Consider using an anti-glare screen protector to avoid reflections that can contribute to digital eyestrain.
Blue light protection:
The Sunglass Shoppe offers digital eyestrain lenses that filter harmful blue light, helping to keep your eyes protected and comfortable. Whether or not you have a prescription, you can benefit from this lens. Students have said that this has been a wonderful option for them.
Creating a digital detox routine:
Mindful screen usage and setting aside time for relaxation and outdoor activities are great ways to relieve your eyes from screens. This is an excellent option for those who work on computers and phones all day; consider avoiding screens for 1-2 hours after work each day.
Digital eyestrain is a common challenge in our technology-driven world, but armed with knowledge and proactive measures, we can easily protect our eyes and enjoy digital experiences. Implementing simple yet effective prevention strategies ensures your eyes remain vibrant and healthy as you tackle the next school year or any screen-filled endeavor. Prioritize your ocular well-being, and let your vision shine! The Sunglass Shoppe offers digital eyestrain lenses whether or not you have a prescription. Stop by one of our optical locations in Petoskey and Traverse City to learn more!
