The sun glints off a skyscraper just as fiercely in December as it does in June, so technically sunglasses are year-round necessities—but a pair of shades is psychologically imperative when it’s sunny and hot. Christian Roth’s Vision XXL wrap shades aren’t cheap, but unlike some styles (Tom Ford’s new $2,400 shades, for example) they don’t require a small bank loan, either ($530 at Artsee Eyewear; 863 Washington St., nr. 13th St.; 212-414-0900). The bold titanium frames and extra-large lenses add glamour, the mirrored arms jazz you up from multiple angles, and on cloudy days they make a very slick headband. For more squint-preventers, click ahead—and check here for options under $50.
Ray-Ban Wayfarer – $139
Ilori 138 Spring St., at Wooster St.; 212-226-8276.
Giro Havik – $139
Toga Bikes Eastside 1153 First Ave., nr. 63rd St.; 212-759-0002.
Betray – $160 Oakley 113 Prince St., nr. Wooster St.; 212-673-7700.
Karen Walker Derby – $170 Gargyle (by appointment only) 147 Front St., nr. Jay St., Ste. 212, Dumbo; 718-246-5813.
Marc by Marc Jacobs White – $115 Macy’s 151 W. 34th St., nr. Seventh Ave.; 212-695-4400.
Yves Saint Laurent Panther – $250 Bergdorf Goodman 754 Fifth Ave., at 58th St.; 212-753-7300.
Traction Productions Petrus – $275 Linda Derector 211 Mott St., nr. Spring St.; 212-680-3023.
Jerry – $295 Jimmy Choo 716 Madison Ave., nr. 63rd St.; 212-759-7078.
Sofiane – $390 Oliver Peoples 755 Madison Ave., at 65th St.; 212-585-3433.
Skyla – $420 Available at Oliver Peoples.
Theo Mantaray – $438
10/10 Optics 50 Madison Ave., at 26th St.; 212-366-1010.
Vintage Balenciaga – $450 Circa early eighties; available at Linda Derector.
Thierry Lasry Pimpy – $525
Available at Linda Derector.
Lunor – $595
Robert Marc 782 Madison Ave., nr. 66th St.; 212-737-6000.
Bottega Veneta Brass Aviators – $850 Solstice 10 Columbus Cir., nr. 58th St.; 212-823-9590.
Photographs by Davies + Starr