Designer Sunglasses Buying Guide: What to Check Before You Buy

Start with the UV label, not the brand

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration advises looking for sunglasses labelled UV400 or 100% UV protection, which block more than 99% of UVA and UVB radiation. ^[1] The National Eye Institute gives the same advice and adds that you should not assume expensive, designer sunglasses provide better UV protection than other pairs. ^[2]

Two things that people often read as signs of protection are not: how dark the lens looks and how much the pair costs. The FDA notes that a dark tint does not indicate UV protection, and that lighter tints can offer the same protection as very dark ones. ^[1] If a listing does not state UV protection, treat that as a gap to close with the seller before you buy, not as something to assume.

Check the details a listing should give you

A complete listing for a pair of sunglasses normally states the items below. If several are missing, compare that listing with others for the same model before deciding.

• Model number and colour code, so you can match the pair to the brand’s own range.
• Lens width, bridge width and temple length in millimetres, as three separate numbers.
• Lens material, lens colour and whether the lenses are polarised.
• The stated UV protection, in words such as UV400 or 100% UVA and UVB.
• Frame material and, where relevant, whether the nose pads are adjustable.
• Whether a case, cleaning cloth or box is included.

Fit matters more than the logo

The three measurements on the frame decide whether a pair sits comfortably: lens width, bridge width and temple length. They are commonly printed on the inside of a temple arm. If you own a pair that already fits well, compare its numbers with the listing. Our guide to reading frame measurements explains each number and how they work together. (How to read frame measurements)

Coverage is part of fit. The FDA notes that large, wraparound frames may give more UV protection because they cover the whole eye area, ^[1] and the National Eye Institute notes that a snug fit limits light entering from the sides. ^[2] A very small or very flat frame leaves more of the eye exposed, whatever the lens label says.

Polarised or not

Polarised lenses reduce some reflected glare, for example from water or snow. ^[2] That is a separate property from UV protection, so a polarised pair still needs a UV label. Some people find that polarised lenses change how certain screens look, so test the pair with your phone or dashboard display if that matters to you. Our guide to polarised and non-polarised sunglasses sets out the trade-offs. (Polarised vs non-polarised sunglasses)

Check the seller and the return terms

Designer frames are copied, so where you buy matters. Look for a seller that names the brand, shows the model number and states its return and authenticity policy in plain words. Read the return window, who pays for a return and whether worn or tried-on pairs are accepted before you order.

Retailer listings can change. The product profiles on PowderedPurple show details as recorded from the retailer and are not an independent check, so confirm the exact item on the seller’s current page.

A short checklist before you buy

• UV protection is stated in words, not only implied by the tint.
• Lens width, bridge width and temple length are listed and suit you.
• The model number and colour code are shown.
• The seller’s return terms are clear.
• You know whether the lenses are polarised and whether you want that.

Where to look next

Browse the matching category: designer sunglasses.

• How to read frame measurements
• Polarised vs non-polarised sunglasses
• Sport sunglasses