Marie Claire Editor at Large Zanna Roberts Rassi on why sunglasses are more than just an accessory

Updated

While accessorizing with sunglasses is the easiest way to upgrade your outfit, we often forget that UVA protection is just as important as the style. In honor of National Sunglasses Day, AOL sat down with Zanna Roberts Rassi where she explains why sunglasses are more than just a fashion accessory and reveals which celeb is mastering summer style right now.

Zanna, who not only holds the reigns as Fashion Editor at Large of Marie Claire, is also a co-host of E!'s Fashion Police. In addition to her fashion endeavors, she founded the ultra-successful beauty line MILK Makeup back in 2016, which retails at Sephora and Urban Outfitters.

AOL: As a fashion editor and style expert, what do you look for when investing in a pair of sunglasses?

Zanna Roberts Rassi: You have to think about the UVA/UVB protection. If there isn’t that, forget about it. And obviously, you’re a stylish girl so you also want to think about the style and what suits you and what suits your outfit. You can really change up any look with a pair of sunglasses. Comfort is also very important; if you don’t have comfortable sunglasses on, you’re not going to wear them.

There are several common myths surrounding UV protection. Which is the most important to point out?

Many people believe that the darker the lens, the more protection you’re getting - and this is absolutely not the case. As long as you have the UVA/UVB protection sticker on the sunglasses, it’s going to protect you equal amounts if it’s a light or a dark shade - so don’t be tempted to pick up a pair of dark lenses thinking they are going to protect you. If it doesn’t have the sticker, it’s not going to protect you.

Whether it’s December or June, sunglasses are a season-less accessory in my opinion. What are your thoughts on wearing sunglasses regardless of the season?

It is so important to do that. The Vision Council did a survey and between 2pm-4pm (when most of us are outside) are the hours that UV rays are at the strongest and most damaging. So, rain, shine, sun, snow - wear your sunglasses. They look super chic anyway!

Which celebrity is mastering summer style right now?

So many! The Kardashians nail it with the sunglasses every single time. Somebody like Kate Bosworth wears sunglasses so well. And then you go back to the classics, somebody like Jackie O and you think about that shape sunglass. It's insta-chic if you are wearing jeans and t-shirt and a great pair of sunglasses will elevate your look just like that!

Watch our full interview with Zanna Roberts Rassi above, where she reveals which sunglass trends are a fashion 'do' and 'don't' and the cute way she gets her kids to wear sunglasses outside!

To participate in National Sunglasses Day, don't forget to upload a selfie in your favorite shades using the tags #NationalSunglassesDay #SunglassSelfie and @TheVisionCouncil!

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