Men's sunglasses: 2010 trend

Karen Walker Eyewear Helter Skelter (black)

Somewhat unusual and definitely distinctive, Karen Walker's Helter Skelter glasses are sure to add intrigue to any summer look. The curved but not quite round lenses and the juxtaposition of a mostly black frame with a white bridge make these sunglasses very of-the-moment. And though they may be trendy, the gold arms and smoky lenses keep these shades classy. Fashion-forward men should begin by pairing this accessory with a basic outfit composed of wardrobe staples such as jeans, a striped button-down and an Ivy League-inspired blazer. Eye-catching accessories, including a brightly hued belt, pocket scarf or tie can then be added to create an overall eclectic feel. Alternatively, let these men's sunglasses make their own statement by pairing them with slick, head-to-toe black separates for a modern spin on the beatnik look -- minus the beret, of course.

Retail: $170
Availability: Gargyle.com

Retro Super Future '70s Italian (black)

Stay one step ahead of everyone else in the style stakes this summer with Retro Super Future's uber-hip W sunglasses. Influenced by Italian design from circa the late ‘70s, these shades are the ideal complement to all the old-school Italian fashion that was showcased in the 2010 collections. With their sharp, clean lines and angular shape, these shades are a little retro and quite futuristic all at once, yet they're simple enough to pair with virtually anything. Arguably, however, these sunglasses will be at their best when teamed with other pieces that conjure up visions of glamorous Mediterranean holidays, including crisp white trousers, perfect-fitting suits and blazers, bold dress shirts, and fedoras. What's more, given that the focus on Italian fashion is set to intensify, this accessory will give all your ensembles an on-trend edge for several seasons to come.

Retail: NA
Availability: RetroSuperFuture.com

 

Nueu sunglasses

Launched a mere five years ago, Nueu produces sunglasses that lean more toward trend-setting than trendy and are somehow extremely practical at the same time -- design qualities that have made them must-haves among skateboarders. This year, the company offers men the Taurus 3.0, a throwback to ‘80s street style that's available in a range of color choices. Sculptural, funky and a little bit modish, these retro-inspired yet thoroughly contemporary frames will add a hefty dose of quirky cool to any summer ensemble, particularly when used to revitalize quintessential casual American apparel such as gingham shirts and zippered hoodies. Amazingly, on top of being achingly hip, these shades are crafted from highly durable, lightweight acetate, which means they're suitable for an active lifestyle and won't get damaged easily. Finally, this nearly universally flattering find is well-priced, ringing in at just under $100.

Retail: $99
Availability: Nueu.com

Alexander Wang Tortoiseshell Acetate Curved

It seems that everything New York designer du jour Alexander Wang touches turns to gold, which is why the fashion world was waiting with bated breath for the release of Wang's collection of sunglasses for Linda Farrow. Finally, this spring, Wang's line was unveiled and the results were well worth the suspense. While many of the creations the quirky designer dreamed up could only be pulled off by the most avant-garde of guys, other options, like this tortoiseshell acetate model, are very wearable even for guys who don't live for fashion. With a chunkier frame and dark tinted lenses, these shades have a vintage feel about them, but they remain basic enough to survive several seasons of wear without appearing out of style. Play it safe with your ensemble by donning black tops or earth tones when you sport these shades so that the rest of your outfit isn't competing with your sunglasses, which are sufficiently attention-grabbing on their own.

Retail: Approximately $228
Availability: Asos.com

 

Tom Ford Cross-Detail Aviators

There's something about Tom Ford's Peter Cross-Detail aviators that suggest you like to drive fast and are wild in bed. Whatever that X-factor might be, all that really matters is that these men's sunglasses are an instant woman magnet. With their shiny rhodium frames and inky blue lenses, they add instant, A-list level glamour to anything you pair with them. Granted, they come with an A-list price tag, but they'll be well worth your investment as they'll be adding a rock star edge to everything from expertly cut suits to distressed denim and faded tees for years to come. What's more, the crossed wires at the bridge add a slightly unusual twist to these sunglasses that make them more unique than your average pair of aviators. Finally, the carrying case, with its rich brown hue and leather trimming, provides a sophisticated way to store your shades and prevent them from getting scratched.

Retail: Approximately $381
Availability: Asos.com

                                                                                                                                     source: askmen.com