Ask The Expert: What are the most stylish and trendy eyewear right now?

Prada's geometric range is a cool and trendy choice. Photo: EssilorLuxottica

Ask The Expert is a column on topics related to fashion and beauty.

Jeremy Wong, head of the Leonardo learning platform, EssilorLuxottica, Southeast Asia and Korea, provides answers to your questions this month.

What are the most stylish and trendy eyewear right now? – Lisa, PJ

One of the trends we’re seeing in eyewear this year is geometric shapes.

Whether it be angular oversized frames, narrower cat-eye shapes that incorporate straight lines and edges, or a modern twist on round eyewear with hexagonal frames instead, geometric eyewear offers a wide range of styles to suit any face shape, outfit, and lifestyle.

Metal frames are the ideal choice for a classic look, like this one from Emporio Armani. Photo: EssilorLuxottica

The incorporation of geometric shapes adds an element of edginess and accented style, exemplifying modern eyewear trends today.

In addition, we have also seen an increase in demand for coloured or tinted lenses in sun and optical glasses that can be worn both indoors and outdoors.

For a classic and timeless look, metal frames are the ideal choice as they suit all ages and face shapes.

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What’s your advice when it comes to choosing frames that suit my face? – Natasha, Ampang

Identifying your face shape is a good place to start when it comes to choosing frames.

For every face shape, there are frame shapes that contrast with your facial contours which can bring symmetry and balance to your most prominent features.

Choose colours that complement your skin tone. A helpful tip is to get your companion to take a photo of you wearing the frame so you can better assess how well the frame complements your features and overall style.

If you’re unsure, always seek advice from your eye care professional who can provide personalised recommendations based on your face shape and preferences.

Sunglasses now come with lenses of so many different colours. They also vary from dark to lightly tinted. How do these affect UV protection for my eyes? – Hakim, JB

The colour and tint of sunglass lenses do not determine the level of UV (ultra-violet light) protection; instead, they influence visual comfort and clarity under different lighting conditions.

UV protection is determined by the lens material and coatings rather than the tint itself.

Always choose sunglasses labelled with at least UV400 protection or can block 100% of UVA and UVB rays to ensure adequate protection for your eyes and the surrounding skin.

UVA rays make up 95% of all the UV rays that reach the Earth’s surface, but both forms of light can cause damage to our skin and vision.

I’m confused when it comes to polarised and photochromic lenses. Are the two not the same? – DK, Kuantan

No, they are not the same. Polarised lenses are typically found in sunglasses which excel in reducing glare, making them perfect for prolonged outdoor activities such as swimming, cycling and driving.

Oakley’s Frogskin Hybrid, incorporates angles into the temples and frames of the eyewear for active-go-getters and comes in many colours to make a fashionable accessory. Photo: EssilorLuxottica

Photochromic or some may know as “Transitions” lenses, are more commonly used in optical glasses as they are versatile for everyday use, and designed to seamlessly adapt to changing light conditions by changing the colour of the lenses from clear to dark.

They remain clear indoors or in low light conditions, and darken when exposed to UV light outdoors, thus reducing glare and protecting your eyes.

Transitions lenses also help to filter blue-violet light.

Is it alright to wear sunglasses over prescription glasses? – Winnie, Penang

You don’t have to sacrifice vision for protection. While there is nothing wrong with wearing sunglasses over prescription glasses, they can be uncomfortable and often do not fit well, thus defeating the purpose.

The ideal and more popular choice for people with myopia is photochromic or Transitions lenses.

They help users to protect their eyes by adapting seamlessly to changing light conditions without the need to switch between their glasses and sunglasses.

Alternatively, you can fit your favourite sunglasses with prescription lenses or make a pair of clip-on lenses.

How do I choose sunglasses that can really protect my eyes? What is the difference between protection from UV rays and HEV blue light? – Mika, Subang Jaya

The sun is the greatest source of UV rays and blue-violet light, both of which can have an impact on our eye health over time.

Additionally, blue-violet light can be emitted by artificial light sources such as digital screens and LED lights.

When choosing sunglasses, it’s important to look for ones that offer proper UV protection (minimally UV400) and blue-violet light filtering, especially if you spend a lot of time outdoors or use digital devices frequently.

If you’re unsure, always seek advice from your eye care professional who can ensure that you make informed choices that best suit your individual needs.

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Does size really matter? I read that bigger frames can help protect the eyes better, as the larger lenses block sunrays coming in from the sides too. – Raj, Bangsar

Larger or wraparound frames or eye shields indeed offer more coverage, which can help to provide better protection for your eyes.

However, it’s crucial to ensure that the frame fits well on your face and does not obstruct your vision or cause discomfort.

Striking a balance between size, fit and comfort is essential to ensure both adequate protection and enjoyable wear.

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