Just when we thought we could finally go out again, summer is just around the corner. Are you ready with your sunglasses for this year? Ahead of the peak season, we asked a professional for their opinion on choosing the right sunglasses for you.

• The stylist we interviewed this time

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  Tsukasa Kajiura

  Manager of the DITA shop on the 6th floor of Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building . A stylist who can advise on choosing the right sunglasses shape for each face shape, as well as matching sunglasses with fashion.

The rainy season is the perfect time to choose sunglasses.

"The period from May to summer is the time of year when UV rays are strongest. You might think of sunglasses as a summer item, but it's best to start wearing them by May at the latest. Plus, new models are released around April every year, so now, as summer officially begins, is the perfect time to find a wide variety of sunglasses to choose from."

According to Mr. Kajiura, manager of the DITA shop, DITA's collection of uniquely designed frames is currently at its most extensive. So, how can one choose a frame that suits them from the wide range of options?


"The ideal frame size varies depending on the position of your pupils. Therefore, it's important to choose the right size so that when you wear them, your pupils are positioned near the center of the frame. We'll introduce the basics of frames that suit you, based on the position of your pupils and your face shape, so why not try choosing from there?"

So, first we asked about "how to determine your own face shape." Then, we asked them to introduce frame shapes that suit that face shape, as well as some of DITA's representative models.

1 : For round faces, square teardrop-shaped Targa-type glasses are suitable.

• 1. People with a rounded line from their cheeks to their jawline are considered to have a "round face" type.

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  "When you hear 'round face,' you might imagine a perfectly round face, but in reality, people with perfectly round faces are rare. Basically, it's about having a face with a similar length-to-width ratio. On top of that, check the line from your cheeks to your jaw. If your cheekbones aren't prominent and your chin isn't pointed, then you can consider it a round face."

"People with round faces tend to look good in almost any frame other than round types, but because they naturally have a gentle and soft appearance, many want to project a stronger image. For those people, I think frames with angular and linear shapes are best. Specifically, square types or targa-shaped teardrop frames with linear lines would be good choices. They create a sharp, masculine image."

Speed-oriented racing eyewear

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 2: Wellington frames with a horizontal weight distribution suit square faces.

• 2. Those with a prominent jawline are considered to have a "square face" type.

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  "When you look straight ahead, people with prominent cheeks and chins are called to have a square face. However, if you look more closely, people with a protruding jaw joint are also more likely to be classified as having a square face. Also, many of them have a slightly wider face."

Since this face shape is relatively common among Japanese people, sunglasses are an effective way to express individuality. Therefore, I recommend Wellington frames, which have a strong presence. Especially for those with prominent jawlines and eyes that are not close together, wider frames will suit you well. Rather than straight and angular frames, I recommend frames with a slightly rounded shape. A thicker acetate frame will accentuate your strength and give you a more masculine look.

A modern take on the distinctive charm of mid-century design.

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3: For long faces with eyes close together, round frames are suitable.

• 3. The "long face" type, where the distance between the pupils is short.

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  "Long faces are characterized by a vertical ratio that is longer than horizontal, but I think there are more people with a normal vertical length and a narrow horizontal width than those with a normal horizontal width and a long vertical length. Also, there are people with a combination of features, such as a 'round long face' or a 'square long face'."

There are two types of long faces: those with round faces and those with square faces. Generally, frames suited to round, square, and triangular faces will suit both. However, since people with long faces tend to have closer-set eyes, slightly smaller frames are often preferable. Because round frames tend to be smaller than square frames, choosing from round frames might make it easier to find sunglasses that suit you.

A pink gold frame that blends well with Japanese skin tones.

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4: For a triangular face, round frames can soften the impression.

• 4. Those with a narrow chin are classified as having a "square (triangular) face shape."

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  "Generally speaking, people with a triangular face tend to have a narrow chin. Therefore, there are also those with a round face but a narrow chin, creating a heart-shaped triangular face, or those with a long face but a triangular shape. In either case, they often give off a sharp, refined, and cool impression."

While triangular faces tend to suit most frame types, many find that while they can look cool, they can also come across as cold. Therefore, many people prefer round frames to soften their appearance. For those with small, triangular faces, wide acetate frames can look out of place, so thinner frames, such as metal frames, are recommended. However, classic styles like silver frames can exacerbate a cold impression, so consider trying colored frames instead.

Showcasing the unique personality of black and gold.

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In addition to the above, if you're unsure when looking for sunglasses, please refer to the chart showing how to choose sunglasses based on face shape and style.

Choose your "face shape," "desired look," and "lens features" to find the perfect pair for you.

Kajiura-san mentioned that different frame shapes suit different face shapes, but finally, she added that there are other points to consider when choosing sunglasses besides face shape.

"Sunglasses serve a purpose of blocking sunlight, but their fashion aspect is also important. That's why, just like with fashion, it's about setting your own image of the person you want to be. For example, when wearing sunglasses, you can decide on the frame shape and design based on whether you want to look masculine or gentle. After that, choose a frame of the correct size and shape."

And he also added another tip, one that's unique to this year's selection process.

"With masks becoming commonplace due to the need to prevent the spread of COVID-19, many people are finding it inconvenient when their glasses or sunglasses lenses fog up. For those people, we have lenses with anti-fog features called Fog Guard. We also have lenses with various other functions, such as scratch-resistant coatings, so please feel free to ask us. Our knowledgeable staff will be able to help you find the perfect pair for you."

Manager Kajiura will answer any question accurately. If you're struggling to choose the right sunglasses for you, it's a good idea to visit the store and consult with a trustworthy staff member. However, if you've already decided on a pair, the most convenient option is to buy them online, where you can shop 24/7, 365 days a year. Even though restrictions on going out have been lifted, smart online shopping will likely become the mainstream in order to avoid crowded places.