What’s Your Style? Finding the Quintessential Pair of Shades

It’s nearly summer...and I can’t wait! Finally leaving winter in the dust, rising temperatures are the only thing in sight. With Memorial Day practically on our doorsteps (only 6 days away!) and a bevy of cookouts and summer soirees to attend, it’s now time to start investing in summer wardrobe essentials. In addition to ultra-cool shorts, chic fedora straw hats, and fierce gladiator sandals, let’s not forget about SUNGLASSES!

Whether you are hitting the books, starting a new internship, or traveling the world, finding the perfect pair of shades is critical. As with any fashion trend (or non-trend), every fashion-savvy girl has her likes and dislikes. While some girls love hot pink heart-shaped sunglasses, others abhor them, preferring something a bit more subtle. My criterion for sunglasses, as follows: black, oversized, and tinted.

To splurge or to not splurge, that is the question. With some help from Shakespeare, I believe that we can all come to a common consensus on how much to spend on sunglasses. If you are a style chameleon and are constantly changing your look, you may want to stick with budget-friendly sunglasses. Instead of spending hundreds of dollars on one pair of shades, you can purchase multiple pairs. Fabulously floral, dazzling orange and dramatic cat eye sunglasses can all be yours!

Bottom Line: If you are looking for a variety of sunglasses to mix and match with your ensembles AND won’t be heartbroken if they break by the end of the summer, then be economical and save!

If you are like me, however, and tend to gravitate toward one specific style and shape of sunglasses, then splurging may be your answer. The benefits of designer sunglasses (i.e. Chanel, Dior, Gucci, etc.) include better quality, higher craftsmanship, and the prestige that comes along with wearing them. Still not sure? Try this, a simple mathematical formula for fashionistas: divide the total cost of the pair of sunglasses that you desire by the number of times you think you will wear it (ex. $275 Gucci sunglasses/100 = $2.75). If you are content paying that individual cost the number of times you have specified, then go for it!

Bottom Line: If forking out $200+ on a pair of shades is what you consider an investment, then by all means, splurge away! I certainly don’t blame you, designer sunglasses are super lust-worthy!

Regardless of how much you spend on sunglasses, now is the time to experience with your style. Below you will find chic AND frugal sunglasses that won’t do serious damage to your wallet. All under $25 (one pair a mere $1.70!), feel guiltless purchasing multiple pairs of shades this summer!

Tip: To guarantee that your sunglasses have the longest lifespan possible, definitely consider buying a hard case for them. From my experience, a soft padded case is not very reliable. After breaking two pairs of sunglasses, believe me, I’ve learned my lesson!

Black and Bold by wilmeram featuring lightweight sunglasses

Black and Bold

1. Free People - $18
2. Urban Outfitters - $14
3. Forever 21 - $5.80
4. Forever 21 - $5.80
5. Kohl’s - $24

Probably the most prevalent trend in sunglasses, black and bold suits a variety of tastes and styles. Always classy and chic, these sunglasses are made to fit a variety of face shapes. It’s just a matter of deciding whether you want uber big shades or something subtler. While Jackie O-inspired round frame sunglasses and Audrey Hepburn’s Ray-Ban wayfarers are timeless, heart shaped frames (more sophisticated than neon colored ones) are equally noteworthy.

Ever since I saw Olivia Palermo donning a pair of cat eye sunglasses, I’ve been yearning for them. Thanks to Free People, I currently own a pair…and they’re delightful!

Olivia Palermo, Lauren Conrad, and Rachel Bilson all know a thing or two on how to rock black and bold sunglasses.

Don't Be Shy! by wilmeram featuring plastic shades

Don’t Be Shy!

1. Forever 21 - $1.50
2. Modcloth - $12
3. Urban Outfitters - $10
4. Anthropologie - $24
5. Aldo - $12

Sure to add zing to any ensemble, rainbow hued shades allow you to be experimental with your outfit selections. This summer, I foresee red being the “it” color for brash sunglasses. Bold and fierce, they make a statement without overdoing it (see Rihanna’s image below).

- Channel your inner Katy Perry and don some heart-shaped shades. Pair with one of Betsey Johnson’s eclectically patterned dresses for a fun, quirky look.

- If you only want to add a pop of color to your ensemble, do what Leighton Meester does and try some orange shades. Just remember, a little color goes a long way!

Tip: To avoid appearing like a circus clown, keep the number of colors in your outfit to a minimum. While a colorful ensemble will certainly attract attention, it’s not the kind of attention you’re shooting for.

Although Katy Perry, Leighton Meester, and Rihanna have different styles, they are proof that bright colored sunglasses can work for everyone.

Floral Extravaganza! by wilmeram featuring plastic shades

Floral Extravaganza!

1. Forever 21 - $5.80
2. Anthropologie - $24
3. Anthropologie - $24
4. Forever 21 - $5.80
5. Free People - $18

Sweet, feminine, and flirty, floral sunglasses are for ultimate girly girls. If you are super bohemian or have a style similar to Taylor Swift’s, then these shades are a must! Floral sunglasses are ideal for summer. Wear with strappy dresses, wedges, or pastel colored clothing for a look of flawless perfection.

Tip: Let the floral sunglasses be the focal point of your ensemble. Try and match colors found in the floral pattern on the sunglasses to what you’re wearing.

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Chanel Resort 2012 Show

Karl Lagerfeld is hands-down a fashion genius. Period. While it may be a bit cliché for me to say that I am in love with Karl Lagerfeld’s exquisite designs, it’s true. Bringing out his most notable celebrity clientele (i.e. Rachel Bilson, Blake Lively, Clemence Poesy), Lagerfeld’s Cruise 2012 Collection did not fail to impress. Because everything that Mr. Lagerfeld does is magnificent, it comes as no surprise that he held his runway show at the Hotel du Cap in Antibes on the French Riviera. Not too shabby.

As a whole, the collection displayed a number of different styles and looks. As noted by Rachel Bilson, “I saw everything from a day at the beach to a wedding.” I agree! Running the gamut from prim and proper separates to beautiful gowns and sophisticated beachwear, Lagerfeld keeps his options open. Regardless of where you’re vacationing next summer, something is sure to strike your fancy. Whether you are lounging around the beach, interning for a prestigious fashion magazine, or attending a summer soiree, it’s all here.

Below are my favorite looks (in no particular order) from the show, enjoy!

Favorites
Old Hollywood glamour – so timeless and classy! While it’s a no-brainer that black swimsuits are chic (and super flattering), it’s astonishing how instantly more glamorous they appear when paired with a Chanel jacket. Don one of these swimsuit ensembles and you’ll be ready for the Hamptons in no time!

The sheen of this fabric is so alluring and gorgeous. I am in love with the loose silhouette of this jacket/skirt combo; it’s a nice alternative to the traditional super-tight business suit.

Note to self: Make a statement in the office this summer by trying a similar ensemble. If it’s too minimalist for your taste, add bold costume jewelry (i.e. mega-sized cocktail rings and bangles).

Best in Show
Lovely. With lace, tulle, and gold trim, this dress is regal enough for a princess. Made for a glamorous beachside wedding, perhaps?

Pops of color found in ensembles, such as this one, started out the show with a bang. As if anyone needed to be reminded of the season (or the warm weather ahead), Lagerfeld subtly does so via his inclusion of yellow and lavender. ALSO, I love the white thong/sandal/high-heeled boot that the model is wearing. I’m sure they will be a hit come next summer!

The floral pattern on this dress reminded me of the oriental designs found on porcelain teacups (how quaint!). While I am not sure how conventional the see-through area on the midriff is, the dress’s charming appeal is undeniable.


White dresses are the epitome of summer. While I loved all of Lagerfeld’s white frocks, this one especially left an impression on me. I completely appreciate the colorful element of surprise that he brings by adorning the dress’s straps with multicolored flowers.
Finishing Touch: The thigh-high slit conveys casual luxe at its best.


More bursts of color, but this time set against midnight black. With the dress’s sleeves evocative of broken stained glass fragments, this dress screams personality.


Yet another stunning gown. Leave the diamonds at home, this sparkly and sheer dress is already impeccable.

Best in Show Runner-up
Rosy pink and creamy white are officially my summer colors. Easier to pull off than an all-white outfit, take note of how effortless, young, and fun this look is. Multiple strands of pearls and a small flower adornment are what add pizzazz to this ensemble and bring it to life.


Decked out in the blackest-black with shooting stars, this dress is made for visionaries. Wish upon a star while wearing it and you just may get what you dreamed for!


This preppy and effortless ensemble is quintessential if you’re a member of the country club or have a knack for croquet and golf. Restrained and simple, an outfit consisting of a lightweight scarf, thin cashmere sweater, and pleated shorts is the epitome of effortless chic.

And of course, no Chanel collection is complete without some tweed!

Item of the Day: A Quaint and Charming Straw Hat

Subtler than your conventional Kentucky Derby hat, this one just exudes sophistication.

What: Edmund Straw Trilby Hat from Reiss

Cost: $70.00

The Clincher: I’ll be the first to admit that I am not one for hats. Not only are they too much hassle (and can lead to horrible hat hair), but I definitely don’t have the right face shape for one. Nonetheless, ever since the royal wedding, hats with huge toppers have been on my radar. In love with all things British (and Kate Middleton’s impeccable style!), I found this straw hat adorned with black flowers to be chic (think Chanel), sophisticated, worldly, and effortless. Whereas some hats scream, “look at me!” this one does nothing of the sort.

For those with a classic style, this straw hat is a must. Wear it with a classy black maxi dress or a Breton stripe tee and shorts for maximum perfection.Add in a cardigan or smart blazer and you're all set!

Item of the Day: Feminine, Flirty, and Floral…It’s a Tunic!

A year-round wardrobe staple that never gets old.

What: Rebecca Taylor Pom Pom Tunic Dress

Cost: $365.00

The Clincher: It’s all in the details! Classic pleats, sweet side ties and a vibrant palette of orange posies make all the difference. Not only is this tunic dress spot on when it comes to prevalent runway trends (floral extravaganza!), but it is also superb for spring/summer weather. Cut above the knee and made of silk (so nice!), what could be comfier!

Endless styling possibilities: Wear it with gladiators, open toe pumps, or wedges (your choice!), throw on a classic cardi, pair it with some jeggings, or tuck it into a high-waisted skirt. As for the rainy days, I’m sure that it would look fab underneath a trench. Can’t stand the transition into winter? Make it foolproof by adding a strand of pearls and some lacy tights for a look of pure sophistication. Tres Chic!

Item of the Day: Fruity Hued Demi Bags

An oh-so perfectly shaped demi bag guaranteed to lift any girl’s spirits.

What: Kate Spade Essex Scout

Cost: $395.00 and $295.00 (smaller size)

The Clincher: Love at first glance. Ever since I saw the ad campaign featuring Kate Spade’s celebrity ambassador, Bryce Dallas, back in January, I’ve been eyeing these brightly colored bags. With spring in full swing and summer lurking around the corner, it’s the quintessential time to start adding bold surges of color to your wardrobe. Get it fast, however, pink seems to already be out of stock!

Whether nestled on one shoulder or worn as a cross-body bag, they will certainly add oomph to any outfit.

Item of the Day: Brilliant Brogues

A feminine take on the traditional menswear inspired brogue.

What: Pippa Brogue from BHLDN

Cost: $280.00

The Clincher: Always a fan of oxfords and brogues, I find this pair by Something Bleu absolutely stunning. Dazzling with sparkles, what is there not to love? With silk chiffon laces, these are the equivalent of Cinderella’s glass slippers. Perfect for any modern day princess looking for her Prince Charming…or just in need of a killer shoe!

Pair with an ethereal white dress or a snazzy black blazer ensemble for the ultimate statement.