Pictured: Jess in Miu Miu
Here in Australia, sunglasses aren’t just a stylish accessory, they’re a summer essential. And with Christmas just around the corner, there’s no better gift than a good pair of sunnies. With our long days, high UV levels and endless sun, a pair of sunglasses is something everyone will use and appreciate. This festive season, SA’s very own Shades are bringing you the very best in style and quality, helping you be the best gift giver on December 25th.
“Sunglasses are the ultimate Christmas gift because they’re equal parts luxury and practicality,” shared Shades owner Marina Karamalikis. “It’s a gift that is worn every day and elevates a look. It’s usually the first thing people notice you wearing, and of course, they protect your eyes.”
At Shades, they’re all about curated cool. “Christmas at Shades is all about the latest styles, limited-drop arrivals, personalised styling, and that signature Shades experience that’s relaxed, luxe, and always a bit of fun.”
This Christmas, they’ve got everything from classic aviators, bold statement frames or high-tech polarised lenses, with sunglasses that tick the box for a thoughtful present that feels luxe without being over the top. Marina says that this season, her customers are gravitating towards Icons and the viral Ray-Ban and Oakley Meta glasses, which have AI built into them, allowing you to make calls, send texts or voice messages, and even film through your glasses.
As for trending brands, Tom Ford is a favourite for those looking to achieve the ‘quiet luxury’ aesthetic and has a bunch of new styles the team are loving. Miu Miu is perfect for any ‘fashion girl’, and Bottega Veneta brings a bold touch of Italian style, just right for summer. This season, Balmain is all about making a statement with high fashion, and Celine is all about clean lines and understated sophistication.
If you’re looking to be runway-ready, then you’ll want to check out Loewe, Prada has brought out some of their most exciting styles yet, and Dita really is in a league of its own. If street style is more your thing, Le Specs is a brand to explore, and for the boating, fishing and everything to do with water enthusiasts, Maui Jim is the brand for you.
When curating all these brands, Shades relies on decades of curated taste and expertise. “We’re not just a store, we’re a boutique with heritage, an edit of the world’s best frames, and a team that actually knows what styles suit our customers’ face shape, needs and lifestyle.
“Our selection consists of luxury icons, cult favourites, and up-to-the-minute releases you won’t find everywhere. Every pair is hand-selected, every brand chosen by myself and Dennis for style, quality, and craftsmanship,” said Marina.
In their shop, the team take the guesswork out of choosing sunglasses. They can help you choose the right pair for your face shape and needs. “We understand design, and we’re obsessed with fit. It’s personalised styling.”
As for what’s on Marina’s Christmas list, she says it’s as tricky as ever to pick a favourite. “Ooh, that’s a tough one because I love so many pairs! But currently on my list (it’s a long one and I hope I’ve been good this year), I would love either a pair of Balmain, Miu Miu, Prada, Tom Ford or Le Specs!”
Shades
Where: 101 Rundle Mall, Adelaide SA 5000 and Terminal 2, 27/1 James Schofield Dr, Adelaide SA 5950
Trading hours: Rundle Mall: Monday to Thursday 9:30am to 5:30pm, Friday 9:30am to 9pm, Saturday 9:30am to 5pm, Sunday 11am to 5pm.
Airport: Monday 12am to 7:30pm, Tuesday to Thursday 6am to 7:30pm, Friday 6am to 8pm, Saturday 7:30am to 7pm, Sunday 7:30am to 12am.
For more information, click here.
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