SUNNY DAYS

Sunglasses — they’re more than a fashion accessory

By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske | Photo by Ron McKinney Photography

Form, function and fashion: Sunglasses help us see better, protect our eyes and yes, they make us look good too. But when it comes to finding the best frames, it’s more than just fashion. For more than 20 years Shellie White has been helping people find the perfect frames at Geneva Eye Clinic. The clinic is home to a team of specialists who perform eye exams as well as handle medical and surgical treatment of eye disorders. Additionally, it has an optical shop where patients can select glasses, many of which are made on-site. The clinic keeps in stock a variety of sunglasses and frequently receives the latest styles. Among one of the top selling brands is Maui Jim. “The lens are some of the best at protecting eyes from UVB rays and they have anti-reflection on the back of the lens too and polarized lens, which really helps resist glare,” White says. While we’ve grown accustomed to thinking about protection from the sun’s ultraviolet rays for our skin and in our sunscreens, Dr. Dianne Anderson, optometrist at the Geneva Eye Clinic, says UV protection is extremely important for one’s eyes. These harmful rays can lead to several eye conditions including dry eye and cataracts along with an increase in risk factors for macular degeneration. Anderson, a longtime Batavia resident, says she reminds her patients that quality ultravioletblocking sunglasses are more than just a cost to consider when it comes to caring for one’s eyes. “UV protection is super important in general,” Anderson says. Many will recognize the name Ray-Ban when it comes to sunglasses. It’s a brand that’s worth noting for its style and popularity, White adds. “Ray-Ban has numerous different designs and is very popular.” White adds there is no single sunglasses style to fit all activities or personalities. For example, the pair she wears when she’s out on the river in her canoe is different than the pair she prefers for driving or walking around town. Someone who enjoys running, boating and golfing may prefer a lighter style of sunglasses that is more aerodynamic, White says. Some enjoy the lens that transition from clear to sunglasses, but White notes these may not work if you are seeking a pair to wear when driving. In recent years vehicle windshields have been created with UV ray protection within the glass. Without the UV rays to activate the lens transitions glasses, they won’t darken. Another reason for quality sunglasses is to avoid unnecessary squinting, which can lead to frontal headaches and wrinkles around the eyes, Anderson says. She recommends patients check their insurance coverage, which may include benefits for sunglasses or price reductions. “You want to get the best quality, anti-reflection and broad protection for UVB rays,” she says. And beyond prescription sunglasses, it’s easy to find great designs that look sharp and protect your eyes in the sun, White says. As for fashion trends, she notes the aviator style is a timeless classic, and she carries a few pairs that offer a more feminine style. For this year, she says the styles are oversized sunglasses in bright, bold prints and colors. “I’m seeing big, chunky sizes, frames with bold shapes and those with cat eyes,” White says. And another popular style is the larger frame with the tortoiseshell patterns. Oversized frames are more than a cute style — they offer some protection around the delicate skin near our eyes, Anderson notes. And investing in a good pair of sunglasses is more than a warm-weather necessity. During the winter months, glare from the snow on a sunny day requires the same protection as one needs on a July afternoon outdoors.

Apricot Lane, Geneva

Apricot Lane, Geneva

Aviators are a timeless classic, says Shellie White.

JADE, Geneva

House of 423, Batavia

House of 423, Batavia

Oversized frames in bold colors are in style!

Cali & Chance, Geneva

Cali & Chance, Geneva

You can’t go wrong with a tortoiseshell pattern.

FASHIONaround town

Stitch Switch

Stitch Switch Men’s Consignment sells a curated selection of new and gently used designer menswear at prices that are typically 60-80% below retail. From sportswear to casual and businesswear to formal, you’re sure to find something for every taste and style. And if you have high quality men’s items that you’re looking to part with, Stitch Switch would be happy to sell them for you. They specialize in consignment for designer and brand name men’s clothing, shoes and accessories. You can bring your items into their shop anytime during regular business hours and they will set you up as a consignor. In today's world of "fast fashion," Stitch Switch provides a socially conscious alternative that saves you money and the environment. You can browse their online shop at www.stitch-switch.com or visit their wide selection of unique men's clothing, shoes and accessories at their store in downtown Geneva. Their inventory is always evolving with new items added online and to the shop each day. Quality, variety, sustainability and affordability; make the switch and join the future of circular fashion with Stitch Switch Men’s Consignment. 310 Campbell St., Geneva | 630-457-5223 | www.stitch-switch.com

House of 423

What began as a small line of clothing and accessories has quickly grown from a brick and mortar, to a storefront in downtown Batavia. House of 423 specializes in denim, dresses and gold filled jewelry, offering a variety of pieces to create a capsule wardrobe, closet refresh or a special occasion outfit. One-on-one styling sessions help clients better understand their body type, while dressing with confidence. Private shopping parties are available, with 20% of the sales going to a local nonprofit. House of 423 focuses on making you feel your best self, while giving back to the community. 10 E. Wilson St., Batavia | 630-423-1664 | www.houseof423.com

Anew Consignment

Anew is a luxury boutique located in downtown Geneva that specializes in modern women's fashion and is revamping what consignment means. Anew focuses on providing women in the area with a way to freshen up their wardrobe without paying “new” prices every season and gives a new life to clothing that no longer suits your style or needs. We also appeal to the lady looking to add a little luxury to her life with our constantly changing stock of designer bags and accessories, ranging from Louis Vuitton to Chanel to Gucci. Anew has something great for every guest that stops by! 27 W. State St., Geneva | 630-262-0944 | www.anewwaytoshop.com

Evernia

At Evernia we specialize in personal service, quality materials and unique fashion. We cater to everyone's style and offer a broad range of fashionable options from clothing to accessories so we can help you put together your dream outfit for any occasion. Stop in and visit us today! 328 S. Third St., Geneva | 630-457-5445 | Find us on Facebook

Cali & Chance

Just cool stuff: That's what you find at this California-style boutique with Midwest roots and philosophy. We're a fun, authentic, multigenerational lifestyle shop featuring clothing, jewelry, decor and gifts. Our selection is constantly evolving. Stop in and be inspired. We also have a sister store, St. Charles Florist & Boutique, located in Wasco which also features flowers, seasonal garden, yard art as well as exciting boutique finds. 228 S. Third St., Geneva | 630-659-6548 | Find us on Facebook

Paula's Couture Consignment

Paula’s Couture Consignment is the only women’s consignment shop in downtown Batavia. Paula’s specializes in fun, affordable fashions for a variety of ages and sizes. Things change daily at Paula’s and she loves to help women dress and accessorize for all occasions. Paula hosts a weekly fashion show on Facebook every Wednesday night at 7pm to showcase what is new in her store. She also has daily fashion photos posted on Facebook and Instagram for style inspiration. Paula’s is located in the heart of downtown Batavia tucked along the Fox River. The little store has been described as a treasure chest of fun and stylish items. Pop by Wednesdays-Saturdays 10-6 or Sundays 12-4 to see what treasures are waiting for you! 4 1/2 W. Wilson St., Batavia | 630-425-3196 | www.paulascoutureconsignment.com