Sunglasses Etiquette: The Dos and Don'ts of Wearing Shades

Sunglasses are a summertime staple, and for good reason. They protect our eyes from harmful UV rays, reduce glare for safer driving and outdoor activities, and can even boost your style. When it comes to wearing this popular accessory though, some etiquette matters.

At American Optical, we're committed to helping you see clearly and in style with our wide range of sunglass styles. That's why we've put together this guide on sunglasses etiquette, covering everything practical concerns in a variety of social situations.

Are Sunglasses Just a Practical Accessory?

While sunglasses are primarily for eye protection, they offer even more benefits. They shield your eyes from direct sunlight and harmful ultraviolet rays. Additionally, your shades, especially polarized sunglasses, can reduce eye strain from glare caused by reflective surfaces like water or a car window.

Sunglasses are far more than just protective gear. They’re a highly visible accessory, adding personality and flair to your look. From classic aviators to modern cat-eye styles — the right pair makes a fashion statement. Sunglasses can even create a sense of mystery — think of iconic mirrored sunglasses.

9 Etiquette Do’s of Wearing Sunglasses

Here are some instances where wearing sunglasses is a given:

1. Outdoors

Of course, the primary purpose of sunglasses is to provide ultraviolet protection for your eyes. Make sure to wear your shades whenever you're outside year-round, especially on bright, sunny days. This not only protects your eyes but also helps prevent wrinkles and other signs of aging caused by sun exposure.

2. At the Beach or Pool

When you're by the water, the sun's rays can be especially intense due to the reflective surface. This can cause eye strain, discomfort, and even sunburn on your eyelids. That's why wearing sunglasses at the beach or pool is a must! They not only protect your eyes from UV rays but also reduce glare, making it easier to enjoy your surroundings and participate in water activities.

Ready to find the perfect pair? Check out AO Beach Sunglasses for stylish and protective shades that will make your next water adventure even better!

3. For Outdoor Work

Many professions require individuals to spend a significant amount of time outdoors, including construction workers, landscapers, lifeguards, and farmers. For these individuals, wearing sunglasses isn’t just a matter of comfort but also a safety requirement. Eyewear protects their eyes from the sun's harmful rays, as well as from potential hazards like dust, debris, or glare from reflective surfaces. If your job requires safety glasses, always check with your employer for recommendations for your line of work.

4. For Outdoor Sports and Activities

Engaging in outdoor sports often means prolonged exposure to the sun, making sunglasses a necessary piece of gear for outdoor activities. Whether you're jogging, going for a hike, or enjoying a round of golf, sunglasses can help you perform better by reducing glare, enhancing contrast, and protecting your eyes from the sun and potential hazards like dust or wind.

So, make sunglasses part of your gear for any outdoor adventure and choose your pair of sunglasses for outdoor sports now — you'll be glad you did!

5. For Mild to Moderate Light Sensitivity

Some people experience light sensitivity, even on overcast days or in moderately bright environments. This can be due to various factors, such as migraines, eye conditions, or certain medications. In these cases, wearing sunglasses can help alleviate discomfort and eye strain and make it easier to go about your daily activities. All sunglass lenses are given a category that lets you know how much light they block - check with your eye doctor to make sure you’re choosing the right category to keep your eyes comfortable.

6. As a Fashion Statement

Sun protective eyewear comes in an array of styles, colors, and designs, making them a fantastic way to express your personal style and elevate your outfit. From classic aviators to trendy cat-eye frames, there's a pair of sunglasses to suit every taste and occasion. Whether you're dressing up for a special event or simply running errands, the right sunglasses create a glamorous and sophisticated look.

7. Covering Tired or Irritated Eyes

We all have days when we feel a bit tired or our eyes are irritated due to allergies, lack of sleep, or other factors. In these situations, wearing sunglasses can help you feel more comfortable and confident while out in public. They can conceal any redness or puffiness around your eyes, making you look more refreshed and put-together.

8. Post-Procedure Recovery

If you've recently undergone eye surgery or procedure, such as LASIK, cataract surgery, or corneal transplant, your eyes may be more sensitive to light during the recovery process. In these cases, your doctor may recommend wearing sunglasses indoors and outdoors to protect your eyes from bright light and promote healing. Sunglasses can also provide a sense of comfort and protection as your eyes gradually adjust to their new state. Always follow your doctor’s recommendations.

9. Transitioning from Outdoors to Indoors

When you've been outside in bright sunlight and then enter an indoor space, your eyes may need some time to adjust to the change in light levels. Don’t be afraid to keep your sunglasses on for a short period while your eyes adapt, especially if you're entering a moderately lit environment like a shopping mall, lobby, or office building.

6 Etiquette Don'ts of Wearing Sunglasses

While sunglasses are versatile, there are certain situations where wearing them is considered inappropriate or rude:

1. Indoors

Unless you have a medical issue that requires you to wear sunglasses inside or you’ve achieved single-name celebrity status, it's generally considered rude to keep your shades on indoors, especially in office buildings. This is especially true in social situations where eye contact is important, such as business meetings or conversations with friends. Plus, there’s no practical purpose in wearing sunglasses inside for long periods.

2. Wearing Mirrored Shades During In-Depth Conversations

Mirrored lenses can be unsettling for the person you're talking to, as they can't see your eyes. It can feel like the other person watching their own reflection instead of engaging with you. If you're having a conversation with someone, consider removing your sunglasses or choosing a non-mirrored pair.

3. Sensitive Settings

There are certain situations where being in sunglasses is considered inappropriate, such as in a church, at a funeral, or during a job interview. In these settings, use your best judgment and remove your sunglasses in solemn settings.

4. Sunglasses as a Hair Accessory

While it’s tempting to push your sunglasses up on your head when you're not using them, this can cause too many scratches and damage over time. Instead, keep a dedicated glasses case on hand for safe storage.

5. Sunglasses as a Mirror

While it's tempting to use your sunglasses as a convenient mirror to check your appearance or discreetly observe others, doing so in public can be perceived as vain or rude. Constantly adjusting your hair, checking your teeth, or applying makeup using your sunglasses as a mirror can draw unwanted attention and invite judgement.

6. Wearing Shades in the Night

Putting on sunglasses at night, unless medically necessary or in the presence of bright artificial lights, is generally considered a fashion faux pas. Not only does it make you appear trying too hard to look cool or mysterious, but it can also hinder your vision and make it difficult to navigate dark environments safely.

Sunglasses Etiquette for Specific Outdoor Situations

While sunglasses are appropriate in many situations, there are specific events and circumstances where this etiquette can be a bit more nuanced:

Outdoor Weddings

Outdoor weddings are a beautiful way to celebrate love, but they can also be a challenge when it comes to etiquette. As a general rule, it's best to avoid being in sunglasses during the ceremony, especially if you're at the wedding party. The couple will be able to see your eyes and share in the emotion of the moment. However, it's perfectly acceptable to put on sunglasses at the reception, especially if it's outside.

Driving

Wearing sunglasses while driving is a matter of comfort as well as safety. The sun's glare can be blinding, especially during early morning or late afternoon hours. Polarized lenses are particularly helpful for reducing glare from the road and other vehicles. Just be sure to remove your eyewear with dark lenses if you're driving through a tunnel or find yourself in other low-light conditions.

Want to find the perfect shade? Check out AO Collection of sunglasses for driving! We have got a style for every driver.

At the Office

When it comes to putting on sunglasses at work, it's best to err on the side of caution. Unless you work in a creative field or have a medical reason for putting on sunglasses indoors, it's generally considered unprofessional to keep your shades on in the office.

Sunglasses Maintenance: Investing in Quality and Proper Care

Our team at American Optical has put together some tips to ensure your sunglasses last and remain stylish:

• Invest in quality: Investing in high-quality lenses is needed for proper protection. Look for sunglasses with 100% UV protection and polarized lenses to reduce glare, like those featured in all AO sunglasses. At American Optical, all of our sunglasses feature premium lenses for optimal clarity and protection with hard-to-find features like backside anti-reflective coating and oleophobic smudge-resistant coating.
• Choose the right frames for your face: With so many styles available, be sure to choose eyewear that complements your face shape and features. At American Optical, we offer a wide range of frames to suit every face. Finding frames that flatter you will encourage you to wear your shades every day.
• Take care of your sunglasses: Always keep your shades in a protective case. Also, we highly recommend cleaning lenses properly with a microfiber cloth and warm water or a lens cleaner specifically made for eyewear.
• Know when it’s time to replace: If your lenses are heavily scratched or your frames are bent out of shape, it's time to invest in a new pair.

American Optical: Your Eyewear Experts

Sunglasses are a fantastic accessory for both style and sun protection, but it's important to wear them appropriately. By following these simple dos and don'ts of eyewear etiquette, you can ensure that you're always putting your best face forward.

At American Optical, we're happy to provide our customers with the highest quality sunglasses for every occasion. Since 1833, we’ve been creating frames that are the perfect combination of form, function, and quality. Whether you're looking for a classic pair of aviators or a smart new style, we've got you covered. Contact us and let's find the perfect pair of sunglasses to suit your needs and personal style together.