Retro gold:  These over-the-top aviators nod straight to the '70s. But the brushed gold metal makes them totally updated for 2000. Fendi style 140 for Marchon.

Suddenly, dressing up has become fun again. And the booming economy is pushing the new glam fashion right over the top. Fur, feathers, gold, crystal, python prints, supple leather, and arresting color nod to the glitzy '70s and decadent '80s. The newest styles in frames are bigger with bolder finishes and dressy details. Here's a breakdown of what's hot:

The Shapes: In sunwear especially, bigger is definitely better. Rimless shields have gone over big in Hollywood, but even zyl frames have moved up a size or two. Though metal frames are not growing by such leaps and bounds, there's one exception to the rule: The aviator. And it has emerged as the most fashion-forward metal frame shape of the year.

While ophthalmic frames are not getting as big, they are definitely getting bolder. Sweeping ovals, cateyes, and even rimless styles are never without a statement-making finish or detail.

The Finishes: For metals, gold is back in all its bold glory. Whether it's polished, brushed, or even combined with another material, it suddenly looks fresh again. Even silver is getting lighter and brighter so that it looks more like platinum. There continues to be a craving for color in zyls. And the latest plastics have an iridescent quality so that multiple hues flash through the material. The whole point is to create an interesting play of texture on the frame, which is why snakeskin and animal print finishes are also important.

The Details: Modern technology has helped suppliers push the envelope with laser etching on frames. Beautifully carved scrolls and cutouts grace temples and frame fronts, making them look like handcrafted works of art. And staying true to the dress-up mood, more frames feature crystals sprinkled along temples, fronts, and even imbedded along the rims.

Here, we showcase the season's offerings. There's a bit of retro fashion, a taste of chic body painting, and the adornment of crystals, paillettes, snakeskin, and bold color to celebrate all that's new. FB

Red rules:  And details like laser etching and crystals make this frame of the moment. Oscar de la Renta style LR105 for Lantis Eyewear.

Iridescent elegance:  Translucent zyl in sleek shapes creates a rich finish. Chanel style 3006 for Luxottica. Shirt by Carl Xylas.

Snakeskin sizzles:  Python goes over the top in color. Versace styles 468/S (left) and 248/P (right) for Colors in Optics.	All that glitters:  Cateyes go glam with crystal details. Style ELK94794 for Selima Optique. Sweater by Jill Stuart.

Rimless with glitz:  Sleek rimless frames are accented with amethyst Swarovski crystals. Daniel Swarovski Eyewear style 036 for Silhouette.