Oakley Sunglasses

Oakley, Inc. is an eyewear company making sunglasses, sports visors and ski goggles. They also make watches, clothing, bags, backpacks, shoes prescription glasses, football and hockey eyewear, and other accessories.
History
Oakley was started by James Jannard in 1975 in his garage with an initial investment of $300. The name Oakley came from Jannard's dog, an English Setter. Jannard began by selling what he called 'The Oakley Grip' out of the back of his car at motorcross events. His motorcycle grips were unlike other grips riders had seen at the time. The material used to make the grips was called "Unobtanium," a unique creation by Jannard that would get a tacky grip to it when it would become wet, rather than slipping out of the riders hand. Unobtanium is still used to make the earsocks on Oakley glasses, and many of the nose pieces.
Although the grips were successful, brand recognition was limited as the grips were usually concealed by the riders' hands. In 1980, Jannard released a pair of goggles called the O-Frame. With the 'Oakley' logo present on the strap, onlookers began to recognize the brand. In 1984, Oakley introduced a pair of sunglasses called the Eyeshade, which were made of plastic and featured removable lenses. They were popularized by Tour de France winner Greg LeMond and other professional cyclists. Oakley continued to introduce new models of sunglasses, including the Blades, Razor Blades, Frogskins, and the Mumbos, which eventually evolved into the M-Frame series of glasses.
Oakley signed a four-year agreement to manufacture eyewear designed by it and Fox Racing in September 2004. These products are sold as the Fox Eyewear brand.
In 2006, Oakley acquired the Oliver Peoples group, a manufacturer of kitschy china made eyewear.
On June 21, 2007, Italian group Luxottica announced a plan to merge with Oakley in a cash deal worth $2.1 billion, and the deal was completed on November 15, 2007. Oakley is now in the portfolio of Milan-based Luxottica group, along with other brands such as Ray_Ban, Person, and Vogue.

Choosing Sunglasses

Even though summer is almost at an end the need for a pair of quality sunglasses exists throughout the year. Sunglasses are very important to wear when outdoors because they help protect your eyes from harmful UV Rays the sun is constantly emitting but choosing the right pair of sunglasses can present some head scratching for you. This article will show you how to choose the best possible pair of sunglasses that fits your style and works best with your face type.
One of the first things you will notice when choosing a new pair of sunglasses is the sheer number of brands and models of sunglasses on the market today and weeding through all of them can be quite frustrating. A good way to decide on a particular style of sunglasses is to look through fashion magazines and periodicals, circling the sunglasses that appeal to you. It's also important to realize that not all sunglasses will look good on every single person and this brings us to the next point about choosing the right sunglasses.
Sunglasses can look great on a celebrity but are they really going to look just as good on you? It all depends on your face and in order to look stylish you will need a pair of sunglasses that matches and compliments the natural shape of your face. People with classic oval faces are the lucky ones and can wear pretty much any style of sunglasses, if your face isn't oval fret not, there are still plenty of quality stylish sunglasses that will work perfectly for you. People with round, should stay away from round eyewear because they accentuate the roundness of your face. People with long faces should choose larger sunglasses that have more height and those of us with short faces should choose sunglasses with shorter, smaller lenses.
When it comes to choosing stylish sunglasses you don't have to break the bank there are plenty of quality replica sunglasses for sale and cheap sunglasses that work just as well as the expensive designer sunglasses.

Versace Sunglasses

If you are among them who prefer to have accessories that define their personality and showcase their different taste, Versace sunglasses seem just perfect for them. These sunglasses are not too gaudy and give a classic appeal in various designs that make the right impression. Being authentic and expensive sunglasses models, Versace is the number one choice for everyone that prefers something stylish and alluring as well. That is why, a single glance of these trendy sunglasses even in the window display may compel thousands of people to buy one.
Versace sunglasses simply create magic with a number of options for every season. Many trendy men and women keep themselves updated with fashionable sunglasses from Versace. People who cannot afford to buy the original branded sunglasses can get equally stylish and happening replica Versace sunglasses and get the desired style statement. The designs and styles are pleasing and available in different stores without putting any burden on pockets of buyers.
Get a wide range of style, and design that are available in numerous categories such as aviator frames, polarized, oversized, rhinestone etc. A diverse collection readily clinches interests of both celebrities and fashion followers. Many of famous celebrities like Bon Jovi, Madonna, Sting and Courtney Love proudly flaunt their Versace sunglasses in the public.
The best thing about Versace products is innovation in style. You can never get a same feature in all its designs. All its designs and products are different from each other and give the trendiest look.

Armani Fashion Sunglasses

Armani sunglasses have to be one of the most fashionable glasses on the market today, the brand name itself stands out amongst the competition and spells quality and style. The creator of these high-end quality sunglasses is the man himself Giorgio Armani who is by no doubt well known throughout the fashion industry.
Sunglasses made by Armani seem to be everyone's choice when thinking style and quality, with various shapes and styles that will please all age groups. Remember you are buying quality sunglasses here, so most varieties can start anywhere from $99 dollars and upwards.
The latest in fashion sunglasses from Armani is the lite weight frame that also comes with a assortment of must have accessories, it is well worth mentioning that Armani eye wear products and accessories are constantly changing to keep up with the pace and demand from loyal users.
These sunglasses are made of quality material, the lenses itself are made from photo-chromic crystal, which is a material that is very lite in weight and is made this way to stand wear and tear.Even the frames of these glasses are made from lite weight material, that come with leather inserts sewn in.
If you want to purchase Armani sunglasses, it is best to shop at a genuine reputable Armani outlet to get the finest quality and style Armani has to offer. Try on a few pairs before making your final choice or even take a friend with you to get a second opinion, also make sure the fit comfortably, if you choose the right pair of Armani sunglasses that site your look and character, you will surely turn heads.

Sunglasses: FAQ

If the sun doesn't bother my eyes, do I still need to wear sunglasses?
Yes. The sun has damaging UV rays that can cause photokeratitis, pingueculae and permanent retinal damage.
What exactly are UV rays?
Ultraviolet (UV) rays are located just past the violet portion of the visible light spectrum; sunlight is the main source. UV light is broken into three different types: UVA, UVB and UVC. UVA has longer wavelengths and passes through glass easily; experts disagree about whether or not UVA damages the eyes. UVB rays are the most dangerous, making sunglasses and sunscreen a must; they don't go through glass. UVC rays do not reach the Earth because its atmosphere blocks them.
When do UV rays affect my eyes?
Most people think that they're at risk only when they're outside on a sunny day, but UV light can go right through clouds, so it doesn't matter if the sky is overcast. The sun's rays are strongest between 10 am and 2 pm.
Glare and reflections can give you trouble, so have your sunglasses ready if you'll be around snow, water or sand, or if you'll be driving (windshields are a big glare source).
The following put you at additional risk: sunlamps, tanning beds and parlors, photosensitizing drugs, and living at high altitudes or near the equator. To find out how high the UV light levels are today where you live, here's a UV index map for the United States, updated twice a day by AccuWeather.
Can certain medical problems increase my risk for damage from UV rays?
Yes. People with cataracts (or who have had catarat surgery), macular degeneration and retinal dystrophies should be extra careful. Read more about these conditions in our Eye Problems and Diseases section.
What are my options to prevent damage to my eyes?
You must wear sunglasses to prevent damage to your eyes. While some contact lenses provide UV protection, they don't cover your whole eye, so you still need sunglasses.
Look for sunglasses that protect you from 99 percent to 100 percent of both UVA and UVB light. This includes those labeled as "UV 400," which blocks all light rays with wavelengths up to 400 nanometers. (This covers all of UVA and UVB rays.)
Also, you may want to consider wraparaound sunglasses to prevent harmful UV rays from entering around the frame.
What are the different kinds of lenses that are available?
With so many lenses available, it's a good idea to ask a professional optician for help when choosing sunglasses. Different tints can help you see better in certain conditions, and a knowledgeable optician can help you choose sunglass tints that are best suited for your needs.
Blue-blockers block blue light and usually have amber lenses. Some evidence indicates blue light is harmful, and could increase risk of eye damage from diseases such as macular degeneration. These lenses are popular among skiers, hunters, boaters and pilots who use them to heighten contrast.
Both polarized lenses and anti-reflective coating cut reflected glare. Polarized lenses in particular are popular with those who play water and snow sports. Anti-reflection coatings reduce glare caused by light reflecting off the back surface of your sunglass lenses.
Mirror-coated lenses limit the amount of light entering your eyes, so you're more comfortable.
Mirror coatings (also called flash coatings) are highly reflective coatings applied to the front surface of sunglass lenses to reduce the amount of light entering the eye. This makes them especially beneficial for activities in very bright conditions, such as snow skiing on a sunny day.
The mirrored sunglasses associated with state troopers are one example of a flash coating. The technology has advanced, however, so that today's choices in mirror coatings include colors of the rainbow as well as silver, gold and copper metallic mirror coatings. Hot pink, blue — almost any color is available.
Choosing the color of a mirror coating is a purely cosmetic decision. The color of the mirror coating you choose does not influence your color perception — it's the color of the tinted lens under the coating that determines how mirrored sunglasses affect your color vision.
Gradient lenses are tinted from the top down, so that the top of the lens is darkest. These lenses are good for driving, because they shield your eyes from overhead sunlight and allow more light through the bottom half of the lens so you can see your dashboard clearly.
Double gradient refers to lenses that are also tinted from the bottom up: The top and bottom are darkest and the middle has a lighter tint. Double gradient lenses are a great choice if you want sunglasses that aren't too dark, but shield your eyes well against bright overhead sunlight and light reflecting off sand, water and other reflective surfaces at your feet.
Photochromic lenses adjust their level of darkness based on the amount of UV light they're exposed to. Read more about photochromic lenses.
What about sunglasses blocking infrared rays?
Infrared rays are located just past the red portion of the visible light spectrum. Though infrared radiation produces heat, most experts agree that the sun's infrared rays do not pose a danger to the eyes.
Which lens color is the best?
Lens color is a personal choice and doesn't affect how well sunglass lenses protect your eyes from UV light. Gray and brown are popular because they distort color perception the least. Athletes may choose other tints for their contrast-enhancing properties; for example, yellow lenses are popular with skiers and target shooters because they work well in low light, reduce haze and increase contrast for a sharper image.
Are impact-resistant lenses necessary?
The FDA requires all sunglasses to be impact-resistant. If you play sports or wear sunglasses on the job, you might want to consider ultra-impact-resistant polycarbonate for even greater eye safety.
Do I still need those "UV Protective" sunglasses if my lenses are real dark?
Yes! Most people believe that the darkness of the lens is what protects their eyes. The degree of darkness has no effect on UV rays. For adequate protection, you need to buy sunglasses that indicate they block 100 percent of the sun's UV rays.
Are the more expensive sunglasses of better quality?
Not necessarily. While expensive sunglasses usually are high quality, you can also get a good pair for under $20 if you're a careful shopper. Just make sure to check that the lenses provide adequate protection from UV light and are free of distortions.
You can also take them to your eye care professional to have the lenses metered to determine the amount of UV that passes through the lenses. That way you can be sure you are getting the most from your sunglasses.
Children don't need sunglasses, do they?
Children's sunglasses are essential. Children are at particular risk because they're in the sun much more than adults, and their eyes are more sensitive as well. UV damage is cumulative over a person's lifetime, which means you should begin protecting your child's eyes as soon as possible.
Most parents would not allow their children to go outside without shoes, yet many seem unaware of the need to protect their children's eyes.
I wear glasses. What options are available to me?
You can buy prescription sunglasses or glasses with photochromic lenses (which change from clear to dark) from your eye care practitioner. Clip-ons may be a less expensive option, and can be bought at the same time as your regular eyeglasses to perfectly match the frames. Some eyeglass frames include sun lenses that magnetically attach to the frame. This gives you the convenience of clip-on sunglasses with less risk of scratching your prescription lenses.
Do those sunglasses for specific sports really make a difference?
Yes. Sports eyewear in general tends to be safer than regular sunglasses because the lenses and frames are made of special materials that are unlikely to shatter if struck and can give you the benefits of both sunglasses and protective eyewear. Also, certain lens colors in performance sunglasses can enhance your vision for certain sports; brown, for example, is popular with golfers because it provides nice contrast on those very green golf courses.

Types of Sunglasses

A pair of sunglasses is a must as a fashion accessory and as an eye protector. Read on to know different types of sunglasses.
Choosing sunglasses could be easy if you know about various types of sunglasses. Some people wear them as they seek comfort while indulging in outdoor activities, some wear them to get glare-free vision, and most of them wear them as sunglasses are a fashion accessory. Find your reason to wear sunglasses but before that check out this guide on types of sunglasses and know more about this awesome accessory.
Aviator Sunglasses
Though Aviators are one of the oldest designs, they are still very much in fashion. Aviators are considered as cool fashion accessories. The fact is that aviator sunglasses will never go out of fashion. They were in vogue and will be in fashion forever. Aviator sunglasses come in various styles and shapes. Famous for their triangular oval shape, aviators are a must in your collection, if you have a sense of fashion.
Wayfarer Sunglasses
Wayfarer sunglasses were on the mind of every fashion conscious in 1950s and 1960s. Wayfarers are again in limelight. These types of sunglasses are looked upon as the most fascinating in the world of designs. These wide and angular sunglasses look equally elegant on men and women. Classic wayfarers designs come in various colours and textures. Wayfarers are in for their vibrant frames. Have you got your pair of wayfarers?
Teashade Sunglasses
Always in demand among people who adore high-end fashion. Teashades were popular in 1960s. Rock stars rocked the concerts by wearing teashades, medium-sized, perfectly round lenses, supported by pads on the bridge of the nose and a thin wire frame. Teashades with dark lenses and large sizes were also popular. Though nowadays teashades are not so much in demand, they can be worn to be different from the crowd.
Polarized Sunglasses
Polarized sunglasses give clear vision without glares. Pilates made polarized sunglasses popular. These types of sunglasses enable them a glare-free vision even in the bright sun light. Polarized sunglasses ensure comfort while driving. Are you totally into outdoor activities such as hiking or bike racing? You should invest in a nice pair of Polarized sunglasses. Polarized sunglasses are available in different shapes and sizes. They make a perfect style statement.
Mirrorshade Sunglasses Mirrorshade sunglasses have mirror coating on the surfaces of the lenses. Can you recall police officers wearing goggles with mirror coating? Mirrorshades are effective in extreme weather conditions as they allow minimum light to pass though the lenses. If you want to avoid eye contact with others for some reason then a pair of a mirrorshade sunglasses is just what you need!
Uses of Sunglasses
Harmful ultraviolet rays are responsible for the major eye problems including cataract. A good quality glares protect your eyes from disastrous UV rays. Make sure that the pair of sunglasses you are wearing are protecting you against UV rays. The outer surfaces of the lenses are covered with a coat known as UV filter, which hinder the UV light to come into contact with your precious eyes. Glare is often uncomfortable. Good pair of sunglasses gives you a glare-free vision. It becomes quite easy to see clearly on a sunny afternoon if you have the right pair of sunglasses. If you are wearing contact lenses then sunglasses are must for you. They will protect your eyes from dust particles. A collection of sunglasses is essential to be stylish. A trendy pair of glares is enough to bring forward your unique fashion sense. Eye gears add sophistication to your look. A pair of sunglasses is a must in your handbag. No matter if you are a cool dude or the cute girl next door, sunglasses will make you look stylish and classy.
Brand named sunglasses what ones do you like best?
Brand named sunglasses like Ray-Ban, Maui Jim, Gucci, Chanel, Prada, Fendi, Nike are very popular what brands do you like best? Why do you prefer one brand over the other? Let us know by leaving a comment. Click here to post a comment. Cheers!

What are Sunglasses

Sunglasses or sun glasses are forms of protective eyewear that usually enclose or protect the eye pupil in order to prevent strong light and uv rays from penetrating. They can sometimes also function as a visual aid, as variously termed spectacles or glasses exist which feature lenses that are colored, polarized or darkened. In the early 20th century they were also known as sun cheaters (cheaters being an American slang term for glasses).
Many people find direct sunlight too bright to be comfortable. During outdoor activities, the human eye can receive more light than usual. Healthcare professionals recommend eye protection whenever outside to protect the eyes from ultraviolet radiation, which can cause several serious eye problems. Sunglasses have long been associated with celebrities and film actors primarily from a desire to hide or mask their identity. Since the 1940s sunglasses have been popular as a fashion accessory, especially on the beach.
History
Precursors
It is said that the Roman emperor Nero liked to watch gladiator fights with emeralds. These, however, appear to have worked rather like mirrors. Flat panes of smoky quartz which offered no corrective powers but did protect the eyes from glare were used in China in the 12th century or possibly earlier. Contemporary documents describe the use of such crystals by judges in Chinese courts to conceal their facial expressions while questioning witnesses.
James Ayscough began experimenting with tinted lenses in spectacles in the mid-18th century, around 1752. These were not "sunglasses" as such; Ayscough believed blue- or green-tinted glass could correct for specific vision impairments. Protection from the sun's rays was not a concern of his.
Yellow/Amber and brown-tinted spectacles were also a commonly-prescribed item for people with syphilis in the 19th and early 20th centuries because of the sensitivity to light that was one of the symptoms of the disease.
In prehistoric and historic time, Inuit peoples wore flattened walrus ivory "glasses," seeing through narrow slits, in order to block the harmful reflected rays of the sun.
Modern developments
In the early 1900s, the use of sunglasses started to become more widespread, especially among the pioneering stars of silent movies. It is commonly believed that this was to avoid recognition by fans, but the real reason was they often had perennially red eyes from the powerful arc lamps that were needed due to the extremely slow speed film stocks used. The stereotype persisted long after improvements in film quality and the introduction of ultraviolet filters had eliminated this problem. Inexpensive mass-produced sunglasses were introduced to America by Sam Foster in 1929. Foster found a ready market on the beaches of Atlantic City, New Jersey, where he began selling sunglasses under the name Foster Grant from a Woolworth on the Boardwalk.
Polarized sunglasses first became available in 1936, when Edwin H. Land began experimenting with making lenses with his patented Polaroid filter.
Uses
Hiding one's eyes has implications in face-to-face communication: It can hide weeping, being one of the signs of mourning, makes eye contact impossible which can be intimidating, or can show detachment, which is considered cool in some circles. Darkened sunglasses of particular shapes may be in vogue as a fashion accessory. Normal glasses are very rarely worn without a practical purpose. The impact on nonverbal communication and the cool image are among the reasons for wearing sunglasses at night or indoors. People may also wear sunglasses to hide dilated or contracted pupils or bloodshot eyes (which would reveal drug use), recent physical abuse (such as a black eye), or to compensate for increased photosensitivity. Fashion trends are another reason for wearing sunglasses, particularly designer sunglasses.
People with severe visual impairment, such as the blind, often wear sunglasses in order to avoid making others uncomfortable—hidden eyes may be better than seeing eyes which seem to look in the wrong direction. Those whose eyes have an abnormal appearance (for example due to cataract) or which jerk uncontrollably (nystagmus) may also do so.