Shapely Little Sun Things

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Angelenos don't need to wait for summer to find a need for sunglasses, but the beginning of the season makes a great excuse to buy a new pair. (Right? Because we can't be the only ones who justify it like that.) This year, it's all about unique colors and shapes from local favorites, trusted fashion houses, and one newcomer.

1. Jee Vice's Moody frame takes the hot new batwing shape and makes it slightly more feminine. The severe angles are softened with red patterns in the upper corners and temples. And if you're keeping up with the latest SATC fashions, you should know that a couple of the brand's frames appeared in the latest movie. ($290, JeeVice.com)

2. What big blue eyes you have...especially wearing the Fortuna frames from LA Eyeworks. We're totally craving a refreshing swim just after looking at these round black and blue frames. Make sure to wear these while you lounge poolside, so you'll color-coordinate with your surroundings. ($335, 7407 Melrose Avenue and 7386 Beverly Boulevard)

3. Lumete is a recent newcomer to the eyewear scene--in fact, they're so new that their first collection isn't even out yet. But the two lovely ladies behind the brand have hit the ground running with some seriously innovative shapes and styles. Our favorite is the Dramolete frame in silver, a curvy little butterfly shape that actually comes in a butterfly-shaped case. The shape is flattering on most faces and the color will go with any outfit. ($160, available in July, Lumete.com)

4. Nothing says classic Alexander McQueen like the mix of opulence and macabre. These gold aviators are a classic look with a twist--tiny gold skulls with rhinestones for eyes. Thankfully, they're not red, because that would just be creepy. ($360, Solstice Boutiques)

5. The funky hexagon shape of Paul Smith's Shirra frame combined with the red striated color treatment and the words "Make Love, Not War" on the end of the temple make these retro without being totally cliche. Plus, they're kind of like a miniature math lesson in shapes, so they're partly educational. Buy a drink for whoever can name the six-sided shape. ($255, Oliver Peoples, 8642 Sunset Blvd.)

With all the options, it's easy to switch out the shape of your sunglasses depending on your mood. And buck up -- June Gloom can't last forever, and let's hope this making-sunglasses-superfluous haze dissipates in July.
· Jee Vice [Official Site]
· LA Eyeworks [Official Site]
· Lumete [Official Site]
· Solstice Sunglass Boutique [Official Site]
· Oliver Peoples [Official Site]