Want a new perspective?

Want a new perspective? Let’s start with frames. Super-hot right now are large rectangular or square plastic frames in white (the new black), pink (fashion’s color du jour), purple (a ’70s flashback), orange or yellow (the choice of the super-trendy) and blue or green (very wearable for most skin tones). But why stop there? Lenses also get the full-color treatment, starting with the trendsetting look of a gradient lens that actually resembles a rainbow. You’ll also find new options in “flash” mirror-coated lenses (the “flash” lens has a more subtle, translucently reflective effect than traditional mirrored lenses). In silver, these lenses are called “ghost” lenses and they’re a best-seller, but you’ll find them in blue, green, purple and pink as well.

Even if you’re hot to hop on the latest sunglass trend, it’s wise to remember that shades are meant to protect your delicate eyes as well as cut glare and look good. Make sure your glasses have 99-100 percent UVA and B protection, and if you don’t see the facts spelled out on the label, ask the optician or salesperson to provide you with certification before you buy.

Like the latest jets, aviator sunglasses soar to new heights this season thanks to all kinds of nifty technical advances. The most modern versions feature barely-there, nearly weightless titanium or metal frames encircling wafer-thin lenses packed with the latest protection. Oversized shapes are trendy right now, but any aviator is a good fashion bet — they just radiate “cool!” Best colors are amber and gradient tones of brown (shading from dark to light), but you’ll also find them in green, yellow or orange metal frames with matching lenses. If you want to go with tradition, the “Can I see your license, ma’am?” mirrored look favored by state troopers is also, um, arresting. (Just make sure you’re traveling under the speed limit!)

The sculptural lines of aviator sunglasses are flattering to many face shapes. They’ll slim down a round face and they’ll also balance out a face when cheeks or jawlines are wider than the forehead. (That’s why those state troopers look so sexy!). Best-selling aviators right now include colored styles from Michael Kors or the more traditional but ever-popular Ray-Bans.