Sunglasses, like basically everything else imaginable, need to be tried on before before you buy them. At a window shopping spree in Bergdorf’s earlier this week, my beau humored me while I tried on pair after pair of outrageously expensive sunglasses. After realizing that I just might be falling in love with a pair or two, I demanded snapshots of me in each so I could check them out and compare later.
Major purchases cannot be decided on a whim, so the pictures (taken with my iPhone and labeled using the “Polarize” app) are my way of remembering how fabulous (or not) they look in later, sober reflection, and I know if I keep going back to the picture, it might just be love. This photo review method can be used for pretty much any shopping outing, from arm chairs or art to throw pillows or jeans.
The additional–and primary–benefit of having a snapshot is for saving $. Not sure what the style of sunglasses are called? Google “Tom Ford Sunglasses Aviators,” click on the “shopping” results, and browse the thumbnails until you find the ones you’re looking for (compare against your pic until you’re 100% sure they’re the same). Okay, now I know they’re called the “Cyrille.” Next, update your Google Shopping search to be more specific “Tom Ford Cyrille.” Viola, a whole range of prices, many less than the department store! In my experience, I’ve found that eBay is almost always the winner in the price wars, as it is here with my shades (and have been for my entire Ray Ban (I’m a sunglass junkie) and vintage Dior cannage bag collections).
Tom Ford Cyrille aviators. Love them. And despite the fact I already own 4 pairs of aviators (aviators are a good investment because they’ll never go out of style), these are different enough (and hot enough in jet black and gold–my favorite combination) to justify the addition to the collection.
Bergdorf Goodman price: $430
eBay price: $199.99 (previously worn)
These vintage-inspired Balenciaga butterfly shades are not normally the style I’d go for, but they called to me from the case and three passers-by complimented me on them while I was trying them on in the store. They make me feel like Sofia Loren, so maybe stepping out of my comfort zone could be a good thing…
Bergdorf Goodman price: $440
eBay price: $269.95
Anyway, whether your budget is $50 or $550, it never hurts to try something on… Just make sure you go home and see if you can find it for less online.
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I agree with the drive-by complimenters… they are amazing!!!