Solstice

A couture-filled playground for the UV-four-eyed, Solstice caters to both men and women—though the women's half of the store is significantly more congested. Boyfriends hang back and deliver opinions when solicited: "Uh, I think I like the Marc Jacobs pair more than the YSL." The girlfriend, clad in bona-fide clubwear, protests: "But what about these Juicy Coutures?!" And what about them? The sunglasses confidently sit pretty amongst Marc Jacobs, Kate Spade, Giorgio Armani and Burberry, alongside the superpowers of Dior, Chanel and Gucci. More alternative brands like Paul Frank and Modern Amusement have to fight harder for the fingerprint-smearing attention, but all of these shades are grab-ready, unlike some stores that hold merch hostage behind bars. Don't get any funny ideas: Each pair has a security device attached, and there are a few special brands like Oliver Peoples and Bottega Veneta that are encased. But don't fear these collections. The friendly sales staff is always ready to help with the selection, though they're less likely to mediate relationship spats fueled by the pricey eyewear. —Lien Ta

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