Sunglasses can more than just protect your eyes; they are a stylish accessory that can complete your look and shield your eyes from harsh sunlight. However, like many aspects of fashion and etiquette, there are certain unwritten rules or taboos associated with wearing sunglasses. In this article, we'll explore some of these unspoken guidelines to help you navigate the world of eyewear with style and respect.
Indoor Sunglasses
One of the most significant taboos in wearing sunglasses is wearing them indoors, especially in places like restaurants, offices, or homes. Wearing sunglasses indoors can come across as rude or pretentious, as it gives the impression that you are trying to hide your eyes or avoid making eye contact. It's generally considered polite to remove your sunglasses when entering indoor spaces.
Nighttime Sunglasses
Wearing sunglasses at night, unless you have a medical condition that requires it, is typically frowned upon. Nighttime sunglasses can impede your vision and pose safety risks, as they reduce the amount of available light. In most cases, it's best to keep your sunglasses off when the sun has set.
Inappropriate Sunglasses
Choose your sunglasses wisely for the occasion. Wearing sunglasses that are too flashy, overly embellished, or with offensive logos or messages can be considered in poor taste. It's essential to consider the appropriateness of your eyewear for different situations, such as formal events, business meetings, or casual outings.
Sunglasses Etiquette in Conversations
When engaging in a conversation with someone, it's customary to remove your sunglasses. Maintaining eye contact is a fundamental aspect of effective communication, and sunglasses can create a barrier that hinders this connection. If you're speaking with someone, particularly in a professional or social setting, take off your sunglasses to show attentiveness and respect.
The Placement of Sunglasses
When you're not wearing your sunglasses, avoid casually perching them atop your head or sticking them in your shirt collar. This practice can stretch the frames, damage the lenses, or leave them vulnerable to falling. Instead, use a protective case to store your sunglasses when not in use.
Overly Tinted Lenses
While tinted lenses are essential for blocking out the sun's harmful rays, excessively dark lenses can hinder your vision, especially in low-light conditions. Opt for sunglasses with appropriate tint levels that allow you to see clearly in various lighting situations.
Sharing Sunglasses
Sharing your sunglasses with friends might seem like a friendly gesture, but it can be unhygienic. Sunglasses come in close contact with your eyes and face, and sharing them can potentially spread germs or irritate the eyes. If someone asks to try on your sunglasses, it's polite to offer them a cleaning cloth or sanitizing wipe first.
Wearing sunglasses is a practical and stylish choice, but it's essential to be mindful of the unspoken rules and taboos associated with eyewear. Avoid wearing sunglasses indoors or at night, choose appropriate styles for different occasions, and remove them during conversations to maintain eye contact. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy your sunglasses while respecting social norms and etiquette, ensuring that your eyewear complements your style and social interactions.
