Consumers favor replica designer styles over the real thing

May 4, 2010

While designer sunglasses may feature some of the hottest trends in fashion, the prices may be a little out of the average consumer's reach. While counterfeit tinted sunglasses are illegal, some off brands are choosing to make replicas of popular styles in order to offer fashion at a more affordable price.

Consumers are taking notice of this trend and buying up fast. According to the International Business Times, replica sunglasses are purchased more often than designer shades. Considering that the recession causing many consumers to tighten their spending habits, this trend does not come as much of a surprise.

However, you can't put a price on eye care. Whether you decide to splurge on the real designer shades, or save money with a knockoff, wearing tinted sunglasses is still an important part of eye care.

According to the American Optometric Association, tinted sunglasses can help prevent harmful UV-A and UV-B rays, which could potentially cause conditions such as cataracts, depending on the amount of sun exposure. The association reports that the proper tinted sunglasses can block out 99 percent of harmful UV rays.