:: Latest trendy sunglasses for men ::

"With my sunglasses on, I'm Jack Nicholson. Without them, I'm fat and 60." -Jack Nicholson

Though now as stylish as they are practical, early forms of sun protection were strictly for functional purposes. For example, to defend against the blinding effects caused by the interaction of sun and snow, prehistoric Inuit people created a mask with narrow eye slits from walrus ivory. In 12th century China, smoky quartz panels were used to shield the pupil from glaringly bright lights. During the height of the syphilis epidemic in the 19th century, sufferers of the disease were prescribed amber and brown-tinted glasses to counteract their sensitivity to light.

In fact, it wasn't until the 20th century that men's sunglasses became a fashion item. At the turn of the century, stars from silent films began wearing sunglasses when they were off duty because the powerful arc lamps used on sets left them with red eyes, thus, setting in motion the association of sunglasses with the glamorous entertainment world. Then, in 1929, on the shores of Atlantic City, Sam Foster began selling mass-produced sunnies under the label Foster Grant at Woolworth. By the 1940s, sunglasses had completed their transformation from a practical device to a mainstream fashion accessory.

No modern man's wardrobe is complete without a pair of sunglasses, and if you're like most men, you probably have more than one pair already. Given that what's hot when it comes to men's sunglasses changes almost as quickly as trends in men's jeans do, and virtually every label now offers eyewear to complement its apparel, consumers are confronted with a mind-boggling array of shades each season.

To help you find that amazing pair amid all of the average options, we'll nudge you in the right direction by offering up suggestions of the coolest looking, most versatile or most affordable men's sunglasses on the market right now. We'll also feature briefs on the latest eyewear labels that we think you'll want to know about so that you'll be sure to stand out in a unique pair.

When it comes to what to wear with your shades and how to wear it to create the effect you're after, from slick street-style to polished and preppy, we have it all covered. Finally, to ensure you look your best, we'll clue you in on how to shop for sunglasses that suit your face. So, before you part with your hard-earned cash, stop by AskMen.com to browse through our men's sunglasses recommendations, then go forth and find the accessory that will make your wardrobe sunsational.

There is no correlation between the price tag on your sunglasses and the amount of UV protection they confer. One survey demonstrated that generic sunnies -- that cost less than 10 dollars -- offered better protection than a pair of shades from a pricey, well-known designer label.

Men's sunglasses in 2009 are a bit different than they were in 2008, so you may want to consider upgrading. In 2009, sunglasses have gone back to basics, erring toward a more contemporary take on the traditional. We've culled through the offerings, and we recommend these stylish optic options in men's sunglasses.

Retro

Believe it or not, we're going with the quirky-cool men's sunglasses now popularly being referred to as Club Masters. These retro shades are equal parts nostalgia and nirvana.

Aviators

While the classic options are time-honoring and more affordable, we can't help but find favor with the Two-Tones from Varvatos. Their atypical symmetry and coloring lend them a fashionable edge over the competition.

Wraparounds

It's a split decision. Prada's Tipped Wraparounds ($250) are stylishly versatile, but we're also a fan of the more economical, athletic-skewing Five Squared from Oakley. We say take your pick.

Shields

Shields are pretty fast, so we're exercising caution by choosing the DKNY. Of all the options, they are the most toned-down and approachable pair in the lot, which we think most guys will appreciate.

Sport

If you're serious about your game and your style, we recommend the Polarized Square Whisker from Oakley. These streamlined shades have all the game you need for everytime festivities.

The future's so bright…

The men's sunglasses of 2009 are hot, yet reserved. This season's smartest shades, regardless of style, offer a less-is-more aesthetic. The designs are more substance and less flash, giving guys great options, even at prices they can afford. In this day and age, that's a future that looks bright.