Quay Australia has established itself as a leading brand in the global eyewear market, offering a blend of festival-inspired style and affordable luxury. Whether you are looking for the perfect pair of aviators for a summer road trip or blue light glasses for your office setup, understanding the brand’s offerings is the first step toward a successful purchase. This guide provides a comprehensive look at how to select the best eyewear for your face shape, the different types of lenses available, and how to maintain your glasses for long-term use.
The History of Quay Australia
The brand began on the Australian festival circuit, where the founders noticed a need for stylish, oversized sunglasses that didn’t cost a fortune. By combining bold designs with accessible pricing, they quickly gained a following among music lovers and fashion enthusiasts alike. Today, the brand is known for its frequent collaborations with celebrities and influencers, which keep the designs fresh and on-trend.
Because the brand focuses on “cool and affordable,” it has become a go-to for people who want to own multiple pairs of sunglasses to match different outfits. While the aesthetic is rooted in the laid-back Australian lifestyle, the designs are versatile enough for city life and professional environments.
Popular Styles and Collections
One of the reasons for the brand’s success is its diverse range of frames. Understanding the signature styles can help you narrow down your choices when shopping online.
The Aviator: High Key
Perhaps the most famous style in their catalog is the “High Key” aviator. Originally designed in collaboration with Desi Perkins, these frames are known for their oversized fit and flat lenses. They offer a modern twist on a classic silhouette and are available in various colors, including black, gold, and rose pink.
Cat-Eye and Oversized Frames
For those who prefer a vintage or high-fashion look, the brand offers numerous cat-eye and oversized square frames. These styles are designed to make a statement and provide significant coverage, which is excellent for sun protection. Common features include thick acetate rims and subtle logo detailing on the temples.
Blue Light Glasses
In recent years, the brand has expanded significantly into blue light filtering eyewear. These glasses are designed for people who spend a lot of time looking at digital screens, such as computers, tablets, and smartphones. They help reduce digital eye strain and are available in many of the same stylish frames as their sunglasses.
Choosing the Right Lenses
When selecting eyewear, the lenses are just as important as the frames. Depending on your lifestyle, you may need specific features to ensure clarity and comfort.
- Polarized Lenses: These are ideal for driving or spending time near water. Polarized lenses contain a special filter that blocks intense reflected light, reducing glare and improving visibility.
- Non-Polarized Lenses: These are standard lenses that provide UV protection. They are suitable for everyday wear and often come in a wider variety of tint colors and gradients.
- Mirrored Lenses: These have a reflective coating on the outside. They are great for high-light conditions and add a bold, sporty look to your eyewear.
- Gradient Lenses: These lenses are darker at the top and gradually lighten toward the bottom. They are practical for driving because they block overhead sunlight while allowing you to see the dashboard clearly.
Finding the Perfect Fit for Your Face Shape
Choosing sunglasses online can be challenging without trying them on. However, you can use your face shape as a guide to find the most flattering frames.
Round Face Shapes
If you have a round face with soft curves and similar width and height, look for angular frames. Square or rectangular sunglasses help add definition and balance the soft features of your face. Avoid very round frames, as they can make your face appear more circular.
Square Face Shapes
For those with a strong jawline and broad forehead, round or oval frames are often the best choice. These shapes help soften the angles of the face. Aviators are also a classic choice for square faces, providing a nice contrast to sharp features.
Oval Face Shapes
Oval faces are considered the most versatile because they are balanced and symmetrical. Most frame shapes will look good on an oval face. You can experiment with oversized frames, bold colors, and unique shapes like hexagons or shields.
Heart Face Shapes
If you have a wider forehead and a narrower chin, look for frames that are wider at the bottom or have a low-set temple. Cat-eye frames are particularly flattering for heart-shaped faces as they follow the natural lines of the face.
Using Virtual Try-On Tools
Most modern eyewear retailers offer a virtual try-on feature. This tool uses your computer or phone’s camera to overlay a digital version of the sunglasses onto your face. To get the best results from a virtual try-on, follow these steps:
- Ensure you are in a well-lit room with the light source in front of you.
- Pull your hair back away from your face so the software can accurately detect your features.
- Remove any existing glasses or hats.
- Look directly into the camera and follow the on-screen prompts to calibrate the size.
How to Care for Your Eyewear
To ensure your sunglasses last for several seasons, proper maintenance is essential. Even high-quality frames can be damaged by improper handling.
Cleaning the Lenses
Always use a microfiber cleaning cloth to wipe away fingerprints and dust. Avoid using your shirt or paper towels, as these materials can contain tiny fibers that scratch the lens coating over time. If the lenses are very dirty, use a dedicated lens cleaning spray or a drop of mild dish soap and warm water.
Proper Storage
When you aren’t wearing your glasses, store them in a hard or soft case. Leaving sunglasses loose in a bag or pocket increases the risk of the frames bending or the lenses getting scratched by keys and other items. Additionally, avoid leaving your sunglasses on the dashboard of a hot car, as extreme heat can warp the frames and damage lens coatings.
Tightening the Screws
Over time, the small screws at the hinges of your glasses may loosen. You can purchase a small optical repair kit to gently tighten these screws. If the frames feel crooked on your face, most local optical shops can provide a professional adjustment for a small fee or even for free.
Conclusion
Finding the right pair of Quay Australia sunglasses involves balancing your personal style with functional needs like UV protection and fit. By identifying your face shape and understanding the benefits of different lens types, you can confidently choose eyewear that looks great and protects your eyes. Remember to utilize virtual try-on tools and follow a regular cleaning routine to keep your new glasses in top condition. For more tips on fashion accessories and personal care, explore our other articles on lifestyle essentials and smart shopping strategies.