Erlik Vice Sunglasses

THE ASKMEN TAKE

Erlik’s Vice model is a streamlined pair of sunglasses with a design as refreshing as it is versatile. Made in Italy, they feature a metal frame and a black temple and hinge, with their logo subtly laminated at the temples. They come in four different lens colors, from classic brown and gray smoke to pink and green gradients. These sleek shades, with a touch of street style, will be welcomed into many wardrobes because of their versatility. Add them to your weekday office attire to buff up your look or stay protected and cool in them on weekends in the city.

UNIQUENESS

Shopping for sunglasses requires that you pay close attention to fit. What is unique about this model is Erlik’s hinge technology that provides greater flexibility and adjustment to the face. To optimally balance out the face, also consider the color of your skin. Darker lenses may look too severe on guys with fairer skin. While the style of these shades isn’t particularly distinctive, their simple no-fuss design is noteworthy. For the guy looking to find an all-purpose pair, you’ll find you’ll get a lot of wear out of these. To accentuate their street style, pair them with a black leather motorcycle jacket, white V-neck T-shirt and your favorite jeans. And don’t hesitate to top off a tailored office suit with these. The look will read slick and sexy.

DURABILITY

Unlike many sunglasses that look over-styled, the Erlik Vice model strikes a good balance between trend and longevity. You could wear these for years to come, feeling modern without having to worry about the style becoming obsolete. These shades, especially when chosen in a classic color like gray smoke, can also be worn year-round. However, while these do offer a unique hinge technology, the quality of these sunglasses could be matched at a lower price point. If you’re the kind of guy who doesn’t like dishing out hundreds of dollars on sunglasses, with a little more effort you could find the right fit and similar versatility for a bit less. 

Gola Scarf

THE ASKMEN TAKE

A light but insulating accessory made from 80% wool and 20% polyamide, this double-layered scarf from British sportswear label Gola brightens up a gray fall or winter morning with its bold, vivid stripes. Pair it with casual apparel like long-sleeve tees, hoodies, cotton jackets and jeans when you’re meeting your buddies at the bar for a few brewskis (or another similarly laid-back affair). You can also use this scarf to update classics like dark-colored blazers and trench coats by giving them a preppy, sporty twist.

UNIQUENESS

You probably don’t own a vast array of scarves. In fact, you may even only have one. Regardless of the number of scarves in your closet, chances are they’re all solid-colored. Think of this Gola scarf as a great opportunity for you to mix things up in your cold-weather wardrobe. Unlike many patterned scarves, this one doesn’t have a strange print that you’ll find difficult to match with the rest of your outerwear nor is it intended exclusively for formal occasions. On the contrary, the thick red and navy blue stripes of this scarf are decidedly masculine and easy to coordinate with your other apparel. The detailed logo patch further contributes to the athletic, rugby-inspired feel of this scarf and contrasting stitching and raw edges help keep it casual. Essentially, this scarf is a versatile accessory for many occasions that will inject a sense of fun into any ensemble you wear with it.

DURABILITY

Given that its composition is primarily wool, you can rely on this scarf to provide warmth and style for many years. The addition of polyamide to the fabric, however, will mean that you have to de-pill this piece with a razor or fabric shaver every now and again or it will appear used quickly. Trend-wise, while this scarf will certainly keep your ensembles from looking outdated, it won’t easily become dated itself because its colors are neutral and its striped pattern is classic. Where cost is concerned, $70 is a lot to spend on an accessory, particularly one that you’ll only be wearing for two seasons a year. The reason this scarf is priced so high is because it’s made from a decent quality wool and it’s associated with a desirable brand name. If you’re not terribly impressed by labels but you like this piece, consider searching for a similar scarf from another company. Just make sure that the fabric is wool, both to prolong its lifespan as well as to ensure adequate insulation from the elements.

Shwood Sunglasses

THE ASKMEN TAKE

Unusual and attention-grabbing without being at all ostentatious, Shwood sunglasses are a veritable work of art. What distinguishes Shwood's models from almost everything else available in the world of eyeglasses is that rather than being made of plastic, these shades are crafted from exotic hardwoods. Two lines are currently offered by this up-and-coming eyewear label: the Canby and the Govy. Modeled after James Dean's badass persona, the Canby is simple yet unforgettable, much like the late actor himself. In contrast, the Govy has a much thinner and more angular frame, giving it a trendy, futuristic-cool '80s vibe.

UNIQUENESS

Each pair of Shwood sunglasses are skillfully handcrafted using precision technology in Portland, Oregon. In order to highlight the natural beauty of the wood and create a fresh, organic aesthetic, manipulation of the raw material is minimized. The result is a choice of three great frame shades: Zebrawood, a yellowy brown with dark streaks; Wenge, a tone reminiscent of the rich, chocolate-color furniture you'd expect to find in an old-school gentleman's club; and Maple, a pale golden, beach-perfect hue straight out of '60s California.

Wood from the Canby range is locally sourced, while the Govy model is sustainably harvested in Africa. When it comes to what to wear with your Shwoods, remember the maxim that less is best. These sunglasses speak for themselves as a noticeable style statement, so avoid overdoing it with your other accessories. To really make these shades your own, take advantage of the company's soon-to-be-offered custom engraving service.

DURABILITY

It's no small feat to straddle the line between timeless and timely. At first glance, Shwood's product could easily be mistaken as a passing fad. Upon further examination, however, you'll notice that the frames of these sunglasses are actually modified classics, meaning they won't quickly appear outdated.

Additionally, the quality of the lenses is second-to-none. Imported from Italy, Carl Zeiss lenses are fitted to each pair of Shwood sunglasses, offering 100% UVA and UVB protection, and a choice of gray or brown tinting. Where price is concerned, Shwood sunglasses are a surprisingly good deal. Many designer men's sunglasses are not nearly as original and have a price tag two to three times higher. For just a little under $100, this eyewear will infuse all of your looks with an incredibly individual twist for years to come, making them worth that little extra spending.