This Sunglasses Company Wants to Become the TOMS of Eyewear

The first point I should make about these glasses — I opted for the Wayfarer shiny brown pair with brown lenses — is that they need to be charged for optimal use. If the battery isn't already at 100%, it takes about 30 minutes to charge them enough for use. The glasses will inform you of the battery percentage through a voice speaker (Tony Stark style) if they're low on battery, but my mistake is that I assumed they would be fully charged after the 30 minutes. They were unfortunately only at 26%, so they died halfway through my first hike (hence me trekking through an early morning hike again the next day).

Alongside charging the sunglasses, you also have to download the “View' app, where the accessory downloads your captured photos, handles settings, and even creates a video montage of your creations. The app provides step-by-step instructions, so I would say anyone who's used any technology ever is able to wear the sunglasses easily. Once I was fully equipped with the app, I set off for my hike.

Like most hikes, the views aren’t stunning until you arrive at the top, so I refrained from taking any photos or videos until the real view set in. Instead, I called my grandma to wish her a happy birthday (and of course, see how the microphone works paired with my iPhone 14 pro). My grandma claims that the audio was clear as day on her end, and I had no issues hearing her either over some very loud LA traffic. After, I played my favorite podcast and songs on Spotify — I'm definitely not used to listening to music so clearly without having Airpods in, so I was a bit taken back by it.

Here’s the one caveat I have with the sound: if you play the audio loud enough, people around you are able to hear it as well. But you can change the volume if you just slide your finger on the right leg of the sunglasses. And when you push your hair back with the sunglasses, which most of us girlies just love to do, the sound continues but you have trouble hearing it. I would classify those pitfalls as pretty minor, but that obviously depends on the preferences of the individual user.

Unfortunately, my sunglasses died at the exact moment I made it to the top of the mountain on the first hike, so the built-in camera feature didn’t get the attention it deserved. However, the second hike lent itself some beautiful photos. And the quality was OUTSTANDING. I say that keeping in mind that these are still sunglasses, but the scenery was videoed and photographed at my eye level, which is a really cool perspective that you wouldn’t get from your phone. Just check out some photos and videos I took below to make the determination for yourself.

With the overall capabilities, I think the price point is worth the splurge — especially if you are sick of earbuds and describe yourself as a more tech-driven individual. I honestly was pleasantly surprised that the set price of the glasses are $299. While that definitely is a good chunk of money, the glasses are a technological investment similar to your computer or phone, so it’s really up to you to determine what you're willing to spend your hard earned cash on. I will say though — they look super cute with any outfit! 😎

The Spaced Ranger Crystal Hemp Gold Gradient Sunglasses ($89)

If you're looking to add a vintage appeal to your summer wardrobe, this pair of crystal hemp sunglasses will do the trick.

The Gothic Breeze Brown Glitter Sunglasses ($89)

Angular shapes are still trending and prove that cat-eye glasses can be the perfect combination of modern and grunge.

Tribe Sunglasses ($175)

Sometimes all your casual outfit needs is a hint of chicness in the form of fashionable glasses. Not only are the lenses scratch-resistant, but they're also designed to protect your eyes from the sun.

Largo Sunglasses ($175)

Environmentally friendly sunglasses that offer a sleek, cool factor are a summer staple that's hard to resist.

Flint Sunglasses ($240)

The timeless nature of the metal frames on the Flint Sunglasses will ensure that you're the main character of your summer adventures.

Summer of 67 Eco Sunglasses ($240)

The Summer of 67 Eco Sunglasses are a nostalgic nod to countless days spent at the beach.

Le Specs Outta Love in Tort Green ($65)

Slim, oval glasses have a way of complementing any face shape, making them the versatile pair to take you through summer and beyond.

Aire Polaris in Black Smoke Mono ($39)

You can't go wrong with a pair of black sunglasses that have smoke mono lenses. They're classic and will add a dash of sophistication to your summer looks.

The Attico Marfa in Pink ($275)

Looking to make a statement this summer? Try wearing a playful and feminine design like the Attico Marfa sunglasses.

New Wave Sunglasses ($85)

Summer concerts and music festivals means that you may spend a lot of time in the sun but Quay Australia has you covered with their New Wave sunglasses. They're available in solid or mirrored lenses.

Big Time Sunglasses ($75)

Bold, polarized sunglasses that feature gradient lenses are sure to make a statement that lets you stand out in a crowd.

High Profile Sunglasses ($95)

Quay Australia knows how to create distinctive frames that capture your attention and their High Profile sunglasses are no exception. The aviator shape and gradient lenses makes them fashion-forward.

Baia Sunglasses ($98)

John Lennon's glasses have been popularized over time which is what makes the Baia sunglasses irresistible. They're stylish, functional, and comfortable so you can wear them as often as your heart desires.

Dipsea Sunglasses ($58)

If you plan to spend a lot of time hiking this summer, the Dipsea sunglasses are the perfect option for you. They're lightweight yet durable, which means they're great for style and performance.

Hera Sunglasses Mantis ($228)

If you like the juxtaposition of making a statement in a sophisticated way, Cult Gaia's Hera Sunglasses are just what you need this summer.

Katka Sunglasses ($228)

Rounded frames provide the right amount of elegance but Cult Gaia's Katka sunglasses also have a thrilling amount of confidence. Perfect for days lounging around the pool, you'll fall in love with the poppy-colored hue of their frames.

Lunch at the Ivy Sunglasses Blue ($4)

If you want an inexpensive yet trendy pair of sunglasses to wear all summer, look no further than Fashion Nova's Lunch at the Ivy Sunglasses. They're available in vibrant shades of blue and lavender frames to help elevate any look you wear.

Taking Risks Sunglasses Grey ($4)

Although black glasses will always have a touch of classiness to them, grey lenses have a delightful mysterious flair to them.

Lele Sadoughi SP-23-129 Sunglasses ($145)

Who said that sunglasses have to be boring? Make a new statement in this uniquely designed pair of sunglasses inspired by Peggy Guggenheim.

Lele Sadoughi Collections SP21-127 Sunglasses (Sold Out)

Drawing inspiration from Elton John's extravagant sunglasses, this pair of Lele Sadoughi's glasses will frame your frame in an unforgettable way. Fingers crossed they come back in stock soon!

Winnick Sunglasses Tort ($20)

Combining a tortoiseshell frame and angular shape, Princess Polly's Winnick Sunglasses are the perfect accessory for any occasion.

Cabo Sunglasses Brown ($35)

Princess Polly's Cabo sunglasses are retro-inspired and frameless, giving them an eccentric quality that you'll admire.

Watkins Sunglasses Multi Tort ($30)

Unlike other tortoiseshell frames, the Watkins sunglasses pair vibrancy with style which is great if you're an eye-wear enthusiast.

RĒVO Sage Sunglasses ($199)

You can never have too many stylish, eco-conscious sunglasses — just ask RĒVO! They specifically designed this pair to be flexible, even when your summer schedule isn't!

RĒVO Ludlow Kendall Toole Sunglasses ($249)

These sunglasses take a classic cat eye silhouette and makes it modern. I totally love the green, which gives them a fun, yet subtle spin on tortoise shell style!

Celine Black Sunglasses ($400, was $500)

If you're looking for a pair of sunglasses that works well with your face shape, you're in luck. Celine handcrafted these sunglasses to give your outfits a Parisian-chic appeal.

Crap Eyewear The Love Doctor 2000 ($59, was $80)

Are we the only ones who things Andre 3000 would have loved wearing these during the Speakerboxxx/The Love Below era? Since we can't travel back in time to officially ask, we know they'll pique your interest with their adjustable nose pads and retro look.

Crap Eyewear The Heavy Tropix Sunglasses in Agave Bio/Polarized Olive ($109)

The agave bio/polarized olive frames are so cute, you won't be able to stop wearing them. Also, they're prescription-friendly which instantly puts a smile on our faces!

The Best Romantasy Books

Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros

*Sigh* Where do I start? This book squeezed my heart and cradled it at the same time. It also stoked an inner fire that felt eerily similar to a couple of scenes in the book that I've bookmarked 👀.

Meeting Violet Sorrengail was like peeling back the layers of thoughts I had about myself as a child. She initially thinks she's too fragile to be a gifted dragon rider like her siblings Brennan and Mira, but her mother — General Sorrengail — isn't easily swayed. So, off Violet goes to train or die trying.

From enemies who are more than willing to kill her at a heartbeat to developing a deep bond with two dragons — something that's unheard of — Violet finds herself realizing she's more powerful than she's given herself credit for.

Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros

I'm still trying to make sense of the way Iron Flame took my emotions on the wildest ride. Although I'm still recovering and yearning for more, I have to commend Rebecca Yarros for giving us two of the best Romantasy books of our time.

When we catch up with Violet Sorrengail again, she's managed to enter her second year at Basgiath War College without dying. Although she's a lot more resilient than she gives herself credit for, she knows there's still so much to learn.

The lessons she's learning are harsher and it seems like she's still being targeted for several reasons. As she tries hard to navigate the things she needs to learn in order to survive, she begins realizing there's an internal threat that's far greater than anyone could've imagined.

It'll take all of her allies, her dragons, and her greatest love to eliminate this threat. The problem is that nothing will ever be the same once it's all said and done.

Deep Is The Fen by Lili Wilinson

If you're looking for a romantasy book that's a little less spicy, Deep Is The Fen is a great read!

It centers around Merry's reluctant interactions with the magic she's been trying so hard to stay away from. When she finds out that her best friend Teddy is joining the Toadmen, she makes it her personal mission to stop him. What she doesn't think anyone knows is her ability to see the swirling magic that surrounds all life forms.

It's this same second sight that comes in handy as she joins forces with her sworn enemy Caraway Boswell. Together, they attend the famed Toad ritual in Deeping Fen and it's only until it's too late that Merry realizes the Toadmen are more sinister than she thought.

And they've been waiting for her.

The Midnight Bargain by C.L. Polk

If you have a taste for more magic, you'll love reading The Midnight Bargain.

Unlike our heroine in Deep Is The Fen, Beatrice Clayborn embraces that she's able to use magic, but she has keep it hidden lest she be confined by a 'marital collar.' If you just shuddered, I'm here to tell you it's as bad as it sounds.

Our dear Beatrice wants to become a Magus, but her family is more concerned with making sure she's prepared to secure an amazing marriage. In other words, women aren't supposed to be able to wield magic as powerfully as men. There's also the fact that her family isn't exactly wealthy so her getting married would truly help them.

Still, Beatrice decides to keep pursuing a desire to become a Magus though her plans are almost ruined when another sorceress steals the one thing that'll secure her position. Desperate to have it in her possession again, Beatrice does a bit of conjuring that leads her to a crossroads.

Will she choose her dreams over her family's future or will she give up everything — magic, who she is at her core, and her goals — to save them?

The Hemlock Queen by Hannah Whitten

I highly recommend that you read The Foxglove King before starting this book, but it's on the list because it's my favorite out of the series!

The Hemlock Queen picks up after the twisted king August has died, but his influence is still felt among the royal court. They're not exactly thrilled that Prince Bastian and the trusted Lore are trying to change what they've become used to, creating a lot more unruliness than they were anticipating. It's in the midst of this that Lore can sense a coldheartedness growing in Prince Bastian that wasn't there before.

As time passes, something begins beckoning to Lore to pay more attention to things around her. It wants her to find the truth about herself and what's in front of her.

She'll have to race against the time to find the answers before she loses Bastian and everything else she loves.

The Hanging City by Charlie N. Holmberg

Lark has spent years hiding from her overly domineering father and hasn't found a place to call home yet. The thing that's kept her safe is her ability to cause anyone to feel fear in her presence which has come in handy. With no other options, she decides to seek refuge among the trolls in Cagmar.

She's quickly accepted into their society because they realize she's not like most humans that are in Cagmar. The only rule she has to follow is to never kill a troll even though the most powerful one utterly despises her for being human.

She'll have to learn how to survive in a brand new way while figuring out things about herself, her past, and the family she grew up in.