People Always Ask Me About the Glasses I've Worn for 2 Years, and I’m Done Gatekeeping Them
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A stranger even tried to buy them off me.
Courtesy of Tamim Alnuweiri
I don’t usually gatekeep. I mean — it’s my job to literally share my favorite products and my recommendations on a near-daily basis. But something I am precious about is my glasses. I don’t do the big brands, it takes me hours to find a pair, and they are often vintage. Unlike makeup or skincare products that work and look so different on everyone, I wear glasses nearly every day and they are a pretty distinctive part of my “look.” However, I am going to be the people’s princess just this once and finally share the exact pair of glasses I am asked or complimented about at least once a day by strangers and friends alike: Raen’s Mystiq 52mm Polarized Square Sunglasses.
I’ve had these Raen glasses for probably two years now. Although they are sunglasses, the shape was so flattering that I wanted to wear them all the time, which is hard to do when I’m also nearsighted. So, I took a risk and swapped out the sun lenses for light-responsive (transition) lenses. To keep it short, I have five pairs of glasses, but I wear these almost exclusively.
Raen
The reason they have become my go-to, to the detriment of the rest of my arsenal, is multifold. First, they are flattering, unique, and everyday-wearable despite their large size and thick frame. Second, the transition lenses really add to the whole look — mine go from clear to a brown tint to dark brown depending on the lighting. Third, I think they are universally flattering; friends always ask me if they can try them on and then ask for a link to purchase them. I used to say I can’t remember, but like I said, I’m no longer gatekeeping. In a very Seinfeld moment, a stranger once even tried to buy them off me on the street.
Tamim Alnuweiri
The $185 price tag may seem steep, but in the glasses world, it’s actually mid-range. Brands like Warby Parker hover around the $145 mark while designer brand glasses usually start at upwards of $200 to $300. This is also a very serious and long-term investment — I have spent more on shoes that grace my feet less often than these sit on my face. Plus, depending on your vision insurance plans, you may be able to get extra coverage on a pair of frames.
Between the endless compliments, quality, and daily use, I think Raen’s Mystiq 52mm Polarized Square Sunglasses are worth the investment, even if you use them for their intended purpose. Head to Nordstrom and Raen to shop my go-to glasses and check out some similar (and more affordable) options below.
Quay Yada Yada Sunglasses
Quay
Eyebuydirect Verge Square Matte Tortoise Sunglasses
Eyebuydirect
Warby Parker Sonia Tortoise Glasses
Warby Parker
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