I only get one pair of sunglasses. It’s either that, or I get contacts, or I suppose I could get rich and be able to afford many pairs. When you only get one pair, the question of which pair is more difficult. What do my sunglasses say about me?
I remember working with a designer on a KmikeyM project and they used the outline of my glasses as an icon. I was surprised because I never considered my glasses an essential part of my identity (I have a completely different style as a back up pair), but looking back I have been wearing my Tom Ford frames for a VERY LONG time.
Back in 2022 I was considering new frames and I asked my shareholders if they wanted control, if I should stick with what works, or if I should get a bunch of pairs and treat eyewear with less seriousness. Of course they voted for control.
Unfortunately I didn’t end up getting new glasses in 2022, or 2023, or 2024. And then Kathryn surprised me for my birthday and got me a new pair of my “iconic” frames, the Tom Ford TF 5178, which were inspired by Colin Firth’s character in A Single Man (2009).
So while I wait for my new lenses to be added to the frames I am looking to get also update the lenses in my prescription sunglasses. And because of the cost of prescription lenses, I’m only going to get a single pair. And because I live in Los Angeles I’m going to be wearing these new glasses a lot.
Of all the possible styles, I am reduced it to three essential choices, each of which says something different about how I present myself.
Wayfarer Style
These are my current sunglasses. I have the 2012 Ray-Ban x Brooks Brothers collab pair. These are a classic and can be worn everywhere. I don’t need to get Ray-Bans as every brand has a similar style and they range from pretty expensive to very cheap.
These also don’t say much. They are the just “sunglasses” and don’t express much, but that is also why they are universal.
Aviator Style
The first aviator sunglasses were commissioned by the US military in 1935, but the iconic image in my mind is a blend of Tom Selleck and seeing my Dad wear them everyday as a pilot and a State Trooper in Alaska. These don’t demand a mustache, but they certainly encourage it.
These are a choice. While still incredibly common and universal, they are a bit more intentional than the wayfarer style. They seem more “professional” and a bit more mature to me.
Wraparound Style
Heavily inspired by Danny McBride’s Kenny Powers character military character’s like Matt Damon in Green Zone, these don’t have to be just rad Oakley’s. They could be sporty Nike’s or some DTC brand.
As my only pair of sunglasses this would be an extreme choice. They would be great for riding my bike or playing tennis or going to the range. But what if I’m at a fancy event in a suit and tie and it’s sunny? I mean, it still seems rad to wear these, but do I want to be rad all the time? (I think so?)
And so I present these options to my shareholders, giving them a lot of influence over how I present myself in the wonderful city of Los Angeles, or anywhere I find myself that the sun is shining. Thank you for your consideration.
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