Superstitious Friday

What’s your superstition?

On today’s date, many wake up and dread looking at the calendar. Some are riddled by fear while others look at it as another day. Just how did this hullabaloo start over this legendary day? As Sunglasses Avant Garde unraveled the history of this mystery, we have discovered some fun and entertaining facts to about this freaky Friday date!

How did it all begin?

Although there are a few different theories about how the fear of Friday the 13^th came about, one of the more popular beliefs is that it derived from The Last Supper with Jesus and the apostles. There were 12 apostles at dinner and Judas ended up being number 13, after he showed up. Later, Jesus ended up dying on a Friday.

Friggatriskaidekaphobia

Just what is that jumbled mess of letters above? Friggatriskaidekaphobia is the actual name for the fear of Friday the 13^th! According to the Stress Management Center and Phobia Institute in North Carolina, an estimated 17 to 21 million people in the U.S. are diagnosed with this phobia. Source: glo.msn.com

More fun Friday facts:

· Airplanes often lack a 13^th row

· Many buildings do not have a 13^th floor

· A lot of hotels will not have a room #13

· Estimates have suggested that on Friday the 13^th, the U.S. economy loses up to 900 million dollars. (Source: glo.msn.com)

· Many Americans will not drive on Friday the 13^th

· In the 1880s, The Thirteen Club was formed to expose the superstition that 13 was not unlucky

· On Friday the 13^th, Henry Ford did not do business and Franklin Delano Roosevelt eluded travel.

· In 2012, there are three Fridays that fall on the 13th

· Hurricane Charley hit Florida on Friday the 13^th

Here are some other top superstitions besides this famous Friday’s date:

· Crossing paths with black cats

· Walking under ladders

· Opening an umbrella indoors

· Breaking a mirror

· Stepping on a crack

Do you know of any more freaky-Friday fears or facts or superstitions? Let us know!

So take along your trusty rabbit’s foot, four-leaf-clover or lucky horseshoe and keep your fingers crossed that this Friday ends up being fantastic!

~Charlene Marie

Top Resort Looks for 2012

Planning a trip for 2012? Here’s some great looks for the season!

When you are gearing up to take that much-needed vacation, it’s always fun to take a break from your traditional wardrobe. Playing with a new look while away can be an adventure. Just think of all the new styles you can try with the freedom of being yourself? Look and feel great in some of these fabulous finds for 2012!

Here’s some dashing looks from the Christian Dior Resort 2012 collection:

Photos courtesy of hapersbazaar.com

Below are a few other marvelous fashions from various designers:

From left: Alexander Mcqueen, Valentino, Salvatore Ferragamo and Versace photos courtesy of harpersbazar.com

Don’t forget your sunglasses, of course! Any one of these Lady TAG Heuer styles would look perfect with the above outfits and currently at 25% off, you'll have some extra spending money while protecting your eyes on your trip!

 Lady TAG Heuer sunglasses from sunglasses avantgarde.com

Pack your bags and feel fantastic wherever you decide to go!

Have any styles that you would like to share? Let us know!

Bon voyage!

~Charlene Marie

The Meaning of the UV Index Scale

Ever wonder what the UV Index means?

Photo by Charlene Marie

For many years, scientists have been studying the sun and its effects on our habitat. In order to measure the sun’s rays, a scale called the UV or ultraviolet Index scale was created. This handy little chart is used frequently by meteorologists and lets us know when exposure to the sun is dangerous. Today, Sunglasses Avant Garde will give you a breakdown of this colorful safeguard.

In a nutshell, ultraviolet rays are a form of radiation emitted by the sun that can cause damage to human skill cells, if overexposure occurs. Although they are invisible to human eye, they can have a vast effect on our body.

Check out the illustration of the UV Index scale below and see what the colors and numbers mean.

Illistration courtesy of epa.gov

Green: 2 or less

When looking at the UV Index scale, think of it like a sideways traffic light. If you see green, you are good to go outside. You will still get some exposure to the sun, so it is always a good idea to wear sunglasses and a light sunscreen, if you are sensitive to the sun.  

Yellow: 3 to 5

A yellow block on the UV Index means there is a moderate risk of harm due to sun exposure. In other words, if you plan on being outside for a long period of time, find shade during the brightest hours of the day and take advantage of sunscreen and protective eyewear.

Fun fact: Did you know that bees can see ultraviolet rays?

Orange: 6 to 7

If you see orange on the UV Index, take precautionary measures and limit your exposure. This means the sun’s rays are strong and can cause damage quickly if skin is exposed. Definitely use a heavier sunscreen, at least an SPF 20 or above and protect your eyes. Utilizing a brimmed hat is beneficial when the UV Index is high.

Red: 8 to 10

If you see red on the UV Index, stop and think before stepping out into the light. Red is an indicator that the UV rays are very harsh. Wear your sunglasses and lather your skin with an even thicker sunscreen. SPF 35 or above is typically better. Make sure sunscreen is reapplied if excess sweating occurs and try to stay out of the sun for long periods of time.

 Sunglasses like these TAG Heuer 0231 402 Speedway series will help protect your eyes

Purple: 11 +

A purple color on the UV index means the sun’s rays are extremely dangerous to unprotected skin. Since burning can occur at a rapid rate, make sure you cover up, bring your UV-protective shades, hat and do not leave without sunscreen. On days when the UV index is so extreme, it might be best to enjoy an indoor activity.  

Keep your eyes on the UV Index and help protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays. Your body will thank you in the long run!

Do you have any comments or suggestions about today’s blog? Let us know!

~Charlene Marie

A Look Back at Eyewear Trends for 2011

Trendy things have happened in the world of eyewear in 2011

Taking a step back and doing a yearly rewind of fashion trends can most certainly be an interesting adventure. Styles sometimes change within a blink of an eye and when the sun is shining, most eyes are on or behind sunglasses. Since sunglasses have a style of their own, we have comprised a time-line of eyewear fashions throughout the seasons in 2011 for your enjoyment!

Spring and summer sunglasses

This past spring and summer were pretty similar when it came to eyewear style. During this time, retro was the way to go. Big ‘70s style frames as well as some ‘50s style cat-eye edges graced the runways and streets. As for the more urban look, smoky lenses, metallic accents and leather added spunk to aviators. Mixed-media frames were also the in-thing and mirrored or blacked out lenses made them the perfect fit for a rebellious and futuristic look.  Round John Lennon style frames were spotted as well as rustic style wooden frames that gave an earthy glow. Also sleek and bold metal details added a masculine and mysterious flare to a typical pair of guy-specs.

TAG Heuer 0204 991 Speedway Model

Fall and winter eyewear

At times, style is something that one can fall back on. The styles that many were touting this past fall consisted of a rich assortment of shiny bling. Rhinestones and crystal-like embellishments added style and glamor to create a chic-looking pair of sunglasses. ‘80s style graphics, preppy squared or angled semi-rimless lenses and ‘70s style vintage jock sunglasses have also made an appearance. Refined thin-wired frames have also been a popular choice during the months of the fall foliage and winter frost.  

Lady TAG Heuer Sunglasses 9100-103

Although there are have been many great eyewear styles this year, only a certain few will stick around. What is your favorite style for 2011?

Have any questions or comments on this blog? Let us know your thoughts!

Until next time, keep those eyes protected!

~Charlene Marie

Style source: eyecessorizeblog.com

Three Cheers for the New Year!

Here are some practical things to do to make it a smooth-sailing 2012

Now that a brand new year just about here, it is time to get your resolutions in gear! If you haven’t thought about your resolution, here are a few good suggestions to make life a little better in 2012!

1. Take care of your wheels

Your mode of transportation is extremely important. Make sure you have your oil changed regularly and schedule preventative maintenance on your automobile. Need tools for the job? www.mechanicsdiscount.com has a ton!

2. Improve your lighting

Save money and your eyes with natural lighting. As of Jan, 2012, the new energy efficiency law goes into effect and older light bulbs will start to be phased out. Get yourself into the ‘green’ spirit and visit www.thelitesource.com for some great energy-saving bulbs!

25 Watt HD Compact Fluorescent Bulb

3. Be a fashionista

Get your glamour on and let you style shine through! Add a little extra zing to your wardrobe with a fabulous pair of TAG Heuer sunglasses! Check out some of the sleek and chic styles at www.sunglassesavantgarde.com!

Lady TAG Heuer 9100-204

4. Enjoy the great outdoors

Need a break from the same old rigmarole? Take in a breath of fresh air and enjoy the serenity of an outdoor adventure. Being one with nature can definitely be therapeutic. If you need supplies, www.survivalistsoutfitter.com has a ton of gear!

5. Embrace your inner geek

Do you love electronics? Update your gadgets for optimum enjoyment. Technology is booming and new toys can be a boatload of fun! Get some new gear this year at www.imagineshopping.com!

IIC-ME100 Imagine Portable Multimedia Player

Have any other suggestions for a New Year’s Resolution? We’d love to hear it!

Best wishes for a fabulous 2012!

~Charlene Marie

Classic Holiday Movies

Take your sunglasses off to see these great holiday flicks

 

 

Are you looking for something to get you in the holiday spirit? Look no further than your trusty television! The big networks are playing plenty of great flicks that can turn a frown into a happy holiday smile. Check out what movies made this year’s top ten list courtesy of myfoxny.com! These movies are in no particular order:

                                       1.       Elf 

                                       2.       National Lampoons Christmas Vacation 

                                       3.       A Christmas Story

 Photo courtesy of stefannholm.com

                                        4.       Home Alone 

                                        5.       The Holiday 

                                        6.       White Christmas

                                        7.       It’s a Wonderful Life 

                                        8.       Miracle on 34^th Street 

 Photo courtesy of setsailmotivation.com

                                         9.    White Christmas

                                        10.   Bad Santa

What’s your favorite?

If you don’t see what you’re looking for on your local TV guide, check out your provider’s On Demand list. Most cable and satellite will have a special category for holiday films for you to view for free. Some providers even offer holiday music and a channel with a burning yule log for your enjoyment!

Relax, have fun and enjoy a great classic film this holiday season!

~Charlene Marie

Pair This with That: Sunglasses

There are some gift ideas out there that can complement each other; let us show you how.

Ever wonder what to get for the person who has everything? You’re not the only one! Just when you feel that there is nothing more that you could possibly get, think about what you can do to enhance or make use of what that special someone already has. For instance, if your recipient has a swanky, new coffee maker, why not get them some gourmet coffee to brighten their morning? Below are some great gift ideas to pair or add on to products that may get a lot of use:

Pairing items with sunglasses or eyewear:

Do you know someone who likes fashion? Pair a chic scarf with a designer pair of TAG Heuer sunglasses!

Fabulous Crinkle Scarf photo courtesy of affordablescarves.com

If you have a nautical pal that likes to keep his or her eyewear in shipshape, couple sunglasses with a waterproof case!

Waterproof Glasses Case photo courtest of thewaterproofstore.com

For the outdoor enthusiast, try a bottle of sunblock or a can of bug repellant with a durable pair of sunglasses.

TAG Heuer 6006 27° Model

Delve into your recipient’s interests and see what he or she enjoys.  A practical, yet personalized gift can go a long way!

Have any questions or comments on today’s blog? Let us know!

Happy shopping!

~Charlene Marie