After Dark

We would never tell you not to pick up a pair or two of those great $5 sunglasses from the street. They're great-looking, and Lord knows, you're more than likely to leave them in a cab or endure that twinge-worthy "crunch" when your friend plops down on them. Truth is, though, there is something undeniably thrilling about purchasing a gorgeous, original, completely legit (and sun-proof) pair of shades. When you find the right frame, one that compliments your face and offers just the right amount of tint—and proper UV sun protection—it's pretty much fashion nirvana.

So, in order to ensure everyone gets their perfect pair (that includes us), we've sought out 22 slammin' styles, ranging from tried-and-true classics (aviators and wayfarers) to the eccentric (giant '70s mom frames and optical-illusion lenses). The range of price tags doesn't hurt either (we found some for $35). And remember, even if you do sit on them, there's always plenty more to choose from.

From left:
Benjamin "Nicole 002" sunglasses, $325, available at LeeLee Lunettes.
Spitfire Super sunglasses, $35, available at Tobi.

From left:
Linda Farrow Vintage Janis sunglasses, $370, available at Satine.
Charles Anastase " No Prescription " sunglasses, $275, available at Satine.

From left:
Linda Farrow Vintage Swan sunglasses, $270, available at Gargyle.
Ksubi Chait sunglasses, $210, available at La Garçonne.

From left:
Ferre Vintage 9/S sunglasses, $350, available at LeeLee Lunettes.
Dita Targa Aviator sunglasses, $275, available at Shop Bop.

From left:
Salt Terry sunglasses, $320, available at LeeLee Lunettes.
AM Eyewear Ali sunglasses, $200, available at Pixie Market.

From left:
Ksubi Ifould sunglasses, $220, available at Ksubi.
Alexandra Cassaniti Face It sunglasses, $66, available at Alexandra Cassaniti.

From left:
Karen Walker Deep Freeze sunglasses, $170, available at La Garçonne.
Lanvin Way Shiner sunglasses, $385, available at LeeLee Lunettes.

From left:
Benjamin Kayne sunglasses, $500, available at LeeLee Lunettes.
Luella White Metal Aviator sunglasses, $285, available at La Garçonne.

From left:
Anglo-American Vintage 232 Flr sunglasses, $250, available at LeeLee Lunettes.
Proenza Schouler 5009-01 sunglasses, $290, available at LeeLee Lunettes.

From left:
AM Eyewear All Sorts sunglasses, $205, available at Pixie Market.
Raf Simmons Angular sunglasses, $289, available at Oak.

From left:
Super Retroski sunglasses, $175, available at Steven Alan.
Alex + Chloe Cape Town Woodgrain sunglasses, $190, available at Alex + Chloe.

Our 22 Perfect Shades of Summer.