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Sun worshipers rejoice- sunglasses are not just for summer anymore. Bikinis and flip-flops may be relegated to tragically short vacations and summer months, but sunglasses are now officially year-round fashion accessories. Motivated by a decrease in sales of prescription glasses (blame Lasik), designers have begun to introduce sunglasses throughout the year--to be worn indoors, outdoors, mounted on your head and covering your eyes. Think of sunglasses as the jewelry of 2005--and, at prices ranging from $100 to $300, your chance to claim a bit of designer couture as your very own. Winter-friendly and resort-wear lines are currently in stores. Here's a rundown of what trends and designers to look for:
Colour
Be it dark pink, smoky purple or pumpkin orange, color is a force in eyewear this season. Match specs to your highlights, eye color, favorite sweater or daily whim. They're bold and a welcome shock to the too-often dreary winter wardrobe. Add color to your life with Kate Spade's Berkeley sunglasses, in pink with brown gradient lenses or purple with gray gradient lenses.
Size
Size matters this season. Jackie O's influence lives on in a series of oversized, boxy lenses. Glamorous, yet understated, these specs evoke a timeless, classic sense of style. Wear them with sleek hair and a tailored trench for a polished look. Sizable specs to sport include Supadupa Sunglasses, a favorite of the Olsen twins.
Bling
If you're more JLo than Jackie O, fear not. Sunglasses are increasingly being studded with crystals and rhinestones. Organized in patterns or shapes, the sparkles often highlight signature logos or images. Bring the bling into your life with Versace's Swarovski-studded Rimless sunglasses. The specs' steel, rimless frames are lined with crystals while lenses are dark pink fade.
Texture
From Versace's crocodile, to Kate Spade's wood-grain, texture is adding another dimension to this season's specs. Make the trend yours with a pair of Burberry Check sunglasses, featuring the traditional plaid logo etched in silver tones.