Eyewear experts reveal the biggest differences between cheap and expensive sunglasses. Is it worth spending money on?

Have you ever wondered if there really is a difference between expensive and cheap sunglasses?

After all, you can pick up a pair for $10 at your local drugstore, or you can spend hundreds of dollars and buy a pair of the latest designer shoes worn by your favorite celebrity.

But apart from the design logo on the hinges, what is the real difference? For example, can cheap lenses be harmful to your eyes and are the more expensive lenses much more durable?

To find out, FEMAIL consulted eyewear experts on what to look for when choosing sunglasses. This way, you can be sure that your sunglasses will last a long time and that they will protect your eyes and your bank balance.

CEO of Otra glasses Linda Hammond, who lives in Byron Bay, Australia, warned DailyMail.com: ‘Although consumers pay for the brand name and there is a lot of marketing behind an expensive pair, they are not always better.’

FEMAIL consulted eyewear experts on what to look for when choosing sunglasses to ensure they last a long time and protect your eyes – and your bank balance

Otra frames retail for around $65 to $75 and are a hit with celebrities including Kylie Jenner, Beyonce, Lindsay Lohan, Jennifer Lopez and Hailey Bieber

Otra frames retail for between $65 and $75 and are a hit with celebrities like Kylie Jenner, Beyonce, Lindsay Lohan, Jennifer Lopez and Hailey Bieber.

Linda explained that “one of the most important things to look for is UV protection.”

‘For example, Australia has a strict inspection for UV protection, so we have to make sure all the frames pass the same test because they are sold in multiple countries,’ Linda said, adding that ‘some cheap frames are only relevant to one market, which means their quality is lower.’

Linda Hammond, CEO of Otra Eyewear, warned DailyMail.com: ‘Although consumers pay for the brand name and there is a lot of marketing behind an expensive pair, it does not always make a superior product’

Price-wise, you don’t have to spend hundreds of euros on them, but it’s probably better not to buy them at the drugstore.

“A safe bet is frames starting around $50 because they are better quality, including the lenses, frame and hinges, for a more comfortable and protective fit,” says Linda.

“Consumers can buy great sunglasses for less than hundreds of euros that offer the same protection and functionality as the well-known brands.”

Jonathan Crespo, North American CEO of eco-friendly eyewear brand IZIPIZItold DailyMail.com: ‘While price doesn’t always reflect quality, it does convey a message,’ because ‘it all comes down to brand positioning.’

“Some expensive frames are made from cheap materials, while other affordable frames are made from high-quality materials,” Jonathan advised.

Bru Eyewear is a favorite among Gen Z and celebrities like Hailey Bieber (left) and Emma Chamberlain (right)

“Make sure the frame isn’t too tight or too loose for comfort,” Jonathan told DailyMail.com

Jonathan said you should look for the most comfortable fit, regardless of price.

“For the best fit, your pupil should be as close to the center of the lens as possible,” says Jonathan.

‘If a frame fits well, you can usually feel it straight away, but often a simple adjustment is enough to make them fit just right.’

UV protection is also a must and is a guarantee when you buy branded glasses.

Jonathan Crespo from IZIPIZI told FEMAIL: ‘It’s all about brand positioning’

“But be careful of sunglasses sold at kiosks that sell generic glasses, at gas stations or on the street,” Jonathan continued.

And while Jonathan said that “there’s no specific price point you should avoid,” he added that “it’s important to stay away from glasses with little to no information, just as you wouldn’t buy food without knowing the ingredients.”

Paige Brubaker, the founder of Bru Eyewear, a celebrity favorite among Hailey and Justin Bieber, Emma Chamberlain, Renee Rapp and more, told DailyMail.com: ‘It’s all about the brand name.’

It’s also important to know what materials to look for. “All acetate sunglasses are good quality sunglasses,” Paige said. “There are buzzwords for lenses like polarized or anti-reflective. While those can be nice and cost a little more, I think it’s more about the wearer’s preference.”

When it comes to designers making thousand-dollar sunglasses, Paige said, “If you think about it, none of these brands started out in eyewear or specialize in it. They outsource all that manufacturing.”

However, Paige, who lives in California, explains that some brands with a high price tag are worth it because they use sterling silver, gold and diamonds on the frames.

But if you’re not looking for a little bling and are more interested in protecting your eyes, Paige recommends opting for polarized sunglasses.

There’s no need to spend thousands of dollars on the sunglasses of your dreams, but you’re probably better off not buying your next pair at CVS.