A new pair of sunglasses is such a quick and easy way to update your look. Similarly, a pair of sunglasses that looks dated can really detract from your entire outfit! Today we are looking at what the big brand say will be happening in sunglass style for 2010. It seems that a return to the classics is in order... we take a more in-depth look at sunglasses trends for 2010. 

Tinted lenses

Quite a few of the big sunglass manufacturers are saying that tinted lenses will be a big part of their 2010 collections. However, we are seeing this trend mainly from designer sunglasses brands, rather than the functional icons like Oakley and Arnette. Remember that most tinted lenses don't meet minimum UV protective requirements, so while they do cover your eyes, they aren't really suitable for outdoor use. 

Minimalism in sunglasses

As one brand designer put it, 'People will realize that they've been wearing clown shoes'! It seems that clunky and chunky lenses are out for this year, and sleek, light and minimalist sunglasses are in. 

Polarized lenses

Polarized sunglasses are one of the major technological advancements in the product over the past twenty years, and major brands are indicating that they will be expanding their polarized range. When light is reflected off a flat surface, like the hood of a car, water, snow or a road, it has a tendency to travel in a mostly horizontal direction. We experience this as glare, and polarized lenses block out this horizontally reflected light. Polarized lenses in sunglasses offer better vision, with a lighter lens. 

Smaller or larger frames? 

Some manufacturers are saying that small frames are the way of the future, some are saying that medium and large frames will still be popular. I guess the public will really be the ones to decide - but expect to see a range of sizes available next year. Great for product choice!

Go classic and durable

Fortunately, many brands are saying that a return to classic styles is in order for 2010. This makes this year a great time to buy designer sunglasses, because your purchase now won’t look dated for quite a while! When you buy high quality frames and lenses, the difference shows ... and most manufacturers are saying this is what we'll be seeing this year in retail stores and in online sunglasses shops. 

Safety first!

Remember that sunglasses are first and foremost a safety item of clothing ... no matter how good they look! Wearing properly protective sunglasses can prevent all sorts of diseases and injuries, including:

• Cataracts
• Macular degeneration
• Cancer
• Early onset presbyopia
• Corneal sunburn

Your eyes are one of the most used and abused parts of your body, and also one of the most necessary. So, check the trends, but always choose sunglasses that carry a label indicating they comply with or exceed the requirements of AS/NZS 1067:2003 and are category 2, 3 or 4, and have an EPF (Eye Protection Factor) as close to ten as possible.