Eyewear on the runway at Spring 2016 Fashion Week in New York may have been big, bold and colorful, but here in Chicago form and function are important when choosing a pair of sunglasses. We love our warm weather and spend plenty of time outdoors once it has arrived. Here are some tips on what classic features to look for when purchasing a new pair of shades for the season.

• Look for sunglasses that block 99 to 100 percent of both UVA and UVB rays. Some will be labeled “UV 400,” which means they block all light rays with wavelengths up to 400 nanometers. All of the sunglasses we sell offer full protection for your eyes.
• Blue-blockers and sunglasses with yellow lenses heighten color contrast for a distinct image. These are popular for activities like skiing and boating, where sharp vision is critical. Though they are called blue-blockers, these sunglasses typically have amber lenses.
• If you are serious about a particular sport or activity, performance sunglasses offer various lens color options that address specific needs. For example, brown lenses provide nice contrast on green golf courses. Because they are constructed of polycarbonate, they are also lightweight, non-slip and impact-resistant.
• Gradient lenses that are darker at the top of the lens and gradually become lighter at the bottom are a good choice for driving, as sunlight is strongest coming from the top of your lenses.
• Don’t forget the kids! As with your skin, UV damage to your eyes is cumulative, which means that starting young with sunglasses can have an impact on future eye health issues.