Fashion  

Posted on Thu, Apr. 24, 2008

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In the shade

BY BONNIE BING

The Wichita Eagle

As the weather gets warmer and stays that way, people are donning their shades and spending more time outdoors. If you lost or broke your sunglasses last summer, it's time for a replacement. But when you see the enormous variety of sunglasses this season, you may be unable to resist a new pair anyway. Larger frames with wide temples featuring ornamentation is a popular style this year, according to Lynessa Rico, manager of Specs in Waterfront, 13th and Webb.

But she's quick to add that's one of many, many looks for spring and summer, saying that aviator styles with a vintage feel, colorful frames and textured temples are also popular.

"It's very Hollywood and very glamorous when it comes to sunglasses this year," said Jon Herrscher, owner of Myoptix, 4714 E. Douglas.

And Herrscher says that just as fashion rules no longer exist, eyewear has no rules.

"The old rules simply don't exist. We're so over that. Don't worry about the shape of your face, just try on what you like and see how you look," Herrscher said.

"I've seen people try on glasses I would never have chosen for them. And I'll hang something on someone who would never have tried them on, but they're surprised how good they look."

The oversized frames offer a look of intrigue and mystery, but are also good because they offer protection from the sun.

If you like to wear showy sunglasses, this is the year for you. Retailers say that white is a big, big seller, but a mix of colors on one pair of glasses is another strong trend.

"The saturated colors are very popular, but black is still very strong," said Carla Brown, store manager for Howard's Optique in Bradley Fair, Rock Road and 21st.

One thing for sure: The oversized styles are hot.

"Even if a customer doesn't want bling or a bright color, they can have a big shape, maybe retro, because they want a little something going on. It's a great year for sunwear," Brown said.

Reach Bonnie Bing at 316-268-62446 or bbing@wichitaeagle.com.