No matter how many people will claim that sunglasses are for the explicit purpose of eye protection and care, it still doesn’t ring true. People – man, woman, and even child - buy sunglasses for fashion, to be admired by all and sundry. Here are some of the most popular styles of designer sunglasses over the years.

Just For Women (And The Occasional Confused Gent)

There are no limits to the possibilities of women’s sunglasses. Anything goes, from every variation of the color wheel to stones far more precious than gold. When it comes to women’s sunglasses, the sky’s the limit!

Oversized – This was a look popularized by icons like Jackie O in the 60s. It has since made a comeback, as is apparent in the astonishing number of women traipsing around the world looking like crickets.

Aviator – This style used to be exclusive for men, but as it turns out, it looks great on women, too! Never mind that most of them look like Tom Cruise circa Top Gun in a wig and implants.

Rimless – Though rimless sunglasses are generally on the small side, some women prefer theirs big. The beauty of the rimless pair, however, is that it can be big and bold without being tacky.

Clip-ons – Not exactly the height of fashion, clip-ons at least serve the purpose of being safe for the woman on the run. It’s particularly handy when driving.

The Shield – This is for the woman who wants both protection and style. They literally shield the eyes from harsh light.

Wraparounds – These look good on just about anybody and are probably available in every single color under the sun.

For Men Only

Men’s glasses are no longer confined to just a style or two; there are now more. They’re usually made with function in mind, but more and more men are starting to embrace them for fashion, as well.

The Wayfarer – Originally made popular by the late James Dean in the 1950s, Ray-Ban’s Wayfarer has slipped in and out of style over the years. It’s back for the moment – and they’re no longer all in black!

Aviators – Also a Ray-Ban creation, this style is preferred by 9 out of 10 law enforcers. Naturally, many a gentleman have been known to don the mirrored lenses and teardrop-shaped frames with gusto.

The Matrix – This can solely blamed on Keanu Reeves. This is for the man of mystery, or at least, the man who wants to look cool. Indeed, the hype over the movies may be over, but the sunglasses live on.

Oversized – Thanks to rock stars and David Beckham, men are now wearing oversized sunglasses that are almost as fancy as the women’s version! Indeed, it’s no longer strange to see a man in oversized, jewelled sunglasses – although it does raise a lot of eyebrows!

Wraparounds – These may not the average men’s first choice, but they do serve their purpose. This pair is most perfect for the great outdoors.

Rimless – These give the Wayfarer some serious competition. A steely gray tint and killer frames are likely to attract double-takes.

Indeed, sunglasses really hasn’t evolved much over the years. Whether it’s form or function you want, there’s a pair that’ll fit your purposes. And, of course, it doesn’t hurt that they look good!