Everything I Know About Sunglasses I Learned From Audrey Hepburn

I can't think of a better, quicker fashion fix than a stylish pair of good quality sunglasses. They cost a mere fraction of a handbag, unlike shoes they take up very little storage space and they can quickly transform any outfit. They're also quite useful to mask a bad hair day or the aftermath of a good party. My favorite are by Oliver Goldsmith, a venerable British brand that is practically synonymous with 60's and 70's cool. I also have a soft spot for Tom Ford's 'Anouk' model (dead ringers for the sunglasses worn by Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany's) as well as the sunglasses designed by Bruno Frisoni for Roger Vivier. My love of sunglasses goes back to childhood and are closely associated with some of my favorite movies. In fact, I think it's safe to say that everything I know about sunglasses I learned from Audrey Hepburn (and perhaps a bit from Anouk Aimee too):

1. Conventional wisdom dictates that if you have a narrow, delicate face, you should stay away from large sunglasses. Ignore conventional wisdom. Just make sure the frames sit securely on the bridge of your nose so they don't slide down at inopportune moments.

2. If you choose good quality, well-designed frames, you will have them for years to come. I own several pairs of Oliver Goldsmith sunglasses including some are the very same models worn by Hepburn in Two For The Road (1967) and Charade (1963) which the company still produces (I never claimed to be original, OK?). They remain surprisingly contemporary even today.

3. Make sure the lenses are dark enough so that you can 'people watch' discreetly. Dark lenses are also useful to avoid eye contact or politely deflect unwanted overtures. On the other hand, they're also a great prop for flirting should the situation lend itself to that.

4. Always remove your sunglasses indoors. It's rather difficult to be stylish when you're stumbling around in the dark. It's also quite rude. Unless of course, you're Anna Wintour.

Sincerely,

The Luxe Chronicles

Comments

[sunglasses]

Great post! I love the retro style eyewear! Thanks for sharing your thoughts on selecting a sunglasses

[Aviator Sunglasses]

I liked your explanation of choosing dark glasses......... prop for flirt :)

[Ms. P&C]

My favorites are Oliver Peoples. Incredibly well-made and super-stylish - a little retro, a little modern...

I love the white Audrey glasses from "How to Steal A Million" - I could never wear them without looking like a total fool, but I suppose it's really because I don't have the white Givenchy mod outfit to go with them...It's a look, really.

[Sunglasses Guy]

Excellent advice and a few great points.

People forget with some things that you get what you pay for, and it's the same with sunglasses. If you pay a lot of money, it's ok if it is a classic.