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Celeb Sun Debate: Style vs. Function

By Karlen McLean, ABOC, NCLC

Celebrity stylist, actor, and author Phillip Bloch, Hollywood's fashion guru, recently inked a deal to create Hush Puppies Eyewear for the Kenmark Group. He gets how sunwear can be the most fashionable accessory. Here's what he told EB.

EB: What does sunwear do to add to your own personal style?

PB: Sunglasses are a great accessory to up your personal style ante. They work as a GPS; they give you direction. If you put on a sporty pair of sunglasses, your outfit looks sportier. If you wear a frame that's a little sexier, your outfit is sexified.

EB: What are your lens design, style, and color preferences?

PB: Lenses are important. I love smaller lenses, the idea of more vintage shapes, and, absolutely, colors! I want sunglasses to be versatile. They give you a variety of different looks and you can go many places with the same pair and never look the same. We actually designed some of my sunglasses to be transformational; with a little twist you can pop out the lenses and put a different color in. It's all about getting fashion mileage.

EB: Are you aware of the comfort-giving and protective qualities of sunlenses?

PB: The industry has made amazing technological strides with sunglasses in the last few years to help protect eyes from damage from the sun's UV rays. Using a variety of colors, tints, and gradations, you can now protect your vision and look great at the same time.

EB: How much are lenses a part of your sunwear selection process?

PB: I definitely think the style of a frame can set the tone, whether something is a little vintage or a little more trendy, modern, or retro. But I love using colored lenses because it affects the way you see the world.

EB: What's the best sunwear look for you right now?

PB: I'm tending to like mediumsized shapes. Nothing too big, we've been there and done that. And nothing too small because we've definitely done that. Medium sizes with a masculine, rugged edge, a bit of the ’70s feel, but modified. Think Steve McQueen—sexy with classic style and rugged details. EB

The Practical Approach

Matt Killen, a professional golf coach, recently spoke with EB about what lenses it takes to be a winner on the PGA tour. EB: What are the advantages of photochromic lenses for you? MK: I like wearing photochromic lenses because they're easy to wear. I don't have to take my glasses on and off when I go from inside to outside. EB: How do photochromics work for the coaching you do? MK: I wear two pairs, one brown and one Drivewear. The Drivewear really reduces glare and helps me read the grain, especially on Bermuda greens. EB: How important are sunlenses to you, your game, and your clients? MK: I consider eyewear part of my equipment. I'm looking out for my long-term eye health. Any advancement that gives a player an advantage is equipment that golfers won't do without. Sunglasses are becoming part of what's in every player's bag.