Sunglasses have now become a style statement rather than just an equipment to protect the eye; they now add to the overall glamour quotient of an individual. An important part of the evolving fashion scene, impressive seasonal designs are churned out each summer to woo the fashion conscious, with of course equal importance to the functional aspects of these eye gears. From monochrome classic to colourful and funky designs, there are several sunglasses from reputed brands that are trending this summer.

Here are few classic designs that one can choose from:

Ray Ban Clubmaster

Ray-Ban Clubmaster Ebony
With a sleek gold and black retro frame, handmade in Italy, this design has re-surfaced yet again from the Ray-Ban archives. The model exudes a confident, strong yet relaxed look, very characteristic of a classic design.

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Oswald Select Rosewood & Maple

Shwood Oswald Select Rosewood & Maple Grey Polarised
Hand-crafted in Portland based on a neat blend of Maple interior and Rosewood exterior, this dual toned design with unique inlay work is a mark of sophistication. With high quality polarised lenses that offer 100 per cent protection against the UV rays, this pair of glasses made from sustainable wood from Africa indeed makes a profound style statement.

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Adam Kimmel Welder

Adam Kimmel Welder Sunglasses
This pair of sunglasses is a limited version produced by Selima Optique, a luxury eye wear brand in France. Handmade in France, the model is made from high-grade acetate, metal hingers and sports an oval frame with polarised lenses.

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Persol Folding Sunglasses

Persol Folding Sunglasses
Persol 714 sunglasses, handmade in Italy, are foldable and are an ideal travel companion. This classic model once popularised by Steve McQueen is now trending this summer. With both polarised and non-polarised lense options and 100 per cent UV protection, this timeless classic model is a valuable add to the existing collection.

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Cutler and Gross D-Frame

Cutler & Gross’ D-frame Acetate Sunglasses
This is yet another retro design hand crafted in Italy and is symbolic of comfort, cool and class. A perfect match for any outfit or location, these sunglasses exemplify a neat blend of style and function.

In additional to these specific designs, there are several brands trending across various styles of men’s and women’s sun glasses this summer.

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Sunglass Styles for Men
Retro sun glasses available for this summer include designs from Mual Jim, Cavalli, Ray Ban and Stussy, while square-framed designs from AM, coloured Lenses from Spektre, Neff are worth a look. Those who prefer glasses with a wooden frame can choose their pick from seasonal designs with Shwood Canby. The fans of the sleek aviators better check designs from Armani, Dior, Diesel and Dsquared2.

Sunglass Styles for Women
Women have a few additional interesting sunglass choices for 2012 with uniquely shaped glasses and special frames with animal prints being available at the markets this season. Here are the trending styles for women and brands offering them.

Prada Swirl Sunglasses

For those willing to experiment with animal prints, designer frames are available from Cavalli, Miu Miu and Vestal. Check out the unique shaped sunglasses on offer from Miu Miu and Lunettes. Round glass frames this summer showcase designs from Mykita, Louis Vuitton and Dita, while square frames are available with Miu Miu, Dsquared2, Cavalli and Laura Mercier. coloured sunglasses may look odd or funky in real time, but they are quite popular with youngsters. Designs from Dolce and Gabbana, Miu Miu and Ray Ban are also in vogue this year.

While coloured, squared, round, retro and classic sunglasses are common to both men and women; it is the cat’s eye design that adds a mysterious touch of style to a woman’s sunglass collection. Designs trending this year are from well-known brands like Dior, Miu Miu, Dsquared2 and Yves Saint Laurent.

Sunglasses are a symbol of class and do contribute to creating a great first impression. Irrespective of whether one keeps pace with the fashion trends or otherwise, use of sunglasses is mandatory especially during the harsh summer months. Combining utility with style will only add justification to all expenses incurred in the process.

Republic offer a wider range of the latest high street fashion brands like Vila, AX Paris and Lipsy clothing. Why not get a new outfit to match those new sunglasses?