There’s something about salty air and sandy skin that cures the soul. And something about summer that makes the soul long for endless days and star filled nights. It’s not just the sun. Not just the waves crashing on the shoreline. It’s the feeling. The feeling of freedom. The feeling of hope. It’s all of our favorite parts of the season that create a new summer story year after year. Amidst this year’s craziness, we were finally able to experience our first taste on Ocracoke Island, Outer Banks.

_{photography:JOEL CORSON | camera:CANNON 5D MARK III | sunglasses:c/o:RANDOLPH}

While I could muse endlessly about the remote shoreline, marina culture, and quaint but charming setting, today’s topic at hand is on one of summer’s most quintessential accessories – sunnies.

Like a new bikini and vacation hoodie, sunglasses are an essential we find ourselves browsing for at the first sign of warmer weather. I was introduced to Randolph sunglasses just a few short weeks prior to our escape, and of course – decided the early summer holiday couldn’t begin without them.  

While sunglasses haven’t evolved a great deal over the past couple of years, Randolph has accepted that challenge and artfully designed a selection that truly stands out in a crowed space.

Perhaps it’s the 22K gold plated finish – let’s be honest, that’s enough to get my attention every time. 

After initial introductions to the brand, I decided I needed a pair (ok, fine… I needed two), which Randolph was so kind to send over my direction. They arrived just in time for our much needed getaway, and I quickly discovered what an excellent idea two pairs really was – after my fiancé stole a pair for himself on day one. 

Curious? After a weekend of wear in the sun, here’s my experience I’d like to share in this Randolph sunglasses review. 

First, here’s an introduction to the brand. Randolph was born rooted in a strong American heritage, and are still made in the USA today. Founded in 1973, Randolph sunglasses opened the doors to their factory just outside of Boston by formal Royal Air Force navigator Jan Waszkiewicz and machinist Stanley Zaleski. Since then, they’ve continued to pursue their dream of crafting the worlds very best in sunglasses. 

With a military background, quality and craftsmanship were not an option. They wanted to build something they could be proud of. And while most brands like to boast their stance of quality – the fact is only very few can say that without being secretly struck by lightning in the background. 

The fact is, the quality if Randolph sunglasses is extraordinary.

Upon opening the package and sliding the sunnies from their case, you can instantly tell they’re made at a higher standard. They are built solid, without being cumbersome. There was no wobble, bending, or alteration of the frames even with less than gentle handling throwing items in a bag for the beach.

More than that, as a luxury fashion blogger who has experienced countless brands, I’ve come to learn there’s one true tell of quality that cannot be denied – luxury is in the details. And the more you have your hands on superior quality, the less appealing fast fashion becomes.

As I write this, I hold a pair of Randolph sunnies in my hand, and I must admit, it is truly one of the best quality pairs I have owned. Surely, you all know what I mean when I say, often time even mainstream sunglass brands arrive feeling “loose”, or unbalanced. Instead, the frames and lenses have a mid-to-heavy weight feel, and some how “secure” is a word that doesn’t escape my mind.

As with all luxury pieces, care for them and they will last for years to come.

It feels good to hold something that doesn’t feel it will give way at the slightest misplacement. And, after a weekend of being tossed in beach bags, worn through fishing, dining and sandy seaside adventures, they returned home without a scratch or sign of wear.

Randolph offers an assortment of silhouettes, ranging from the classic aviator to modern geometric frames. For someone rooted in timeless essentials, my sunglasses of choice were the classic Amelia aviator, and the P3 rounded sunnies with a playful, edgy vibe. 

The designs are beautiful. Frames have assorted finishing options from matte black up to 23k gold. I selected gold for both pairs – because why wouldn’t I. After all, it’s not only the biggest accessory trend of the season, it’s also a timeless statement of elegance and sophistication. 

The vibe – freedom, endless summers, and understated summer luxury with a glint of something more.

If you’re curious about the specs beyond my musings, I did want to provide them in this Randolph sunglasses review. So here are the details you may want to know.

Randolph Sunglass Varied Features:

• Range of finishes from matte black to 23k gold
• Range of lenses including soothing green/yellow wavelengths that reduce eye fatigue and improve visual performance
• Polarized lenses with glare and 100% UVA/UVB protection
• SkyTec™ mineral gas with Vector™ anti-reflective and Blue Wave™ technology
• Classic skull temples for all-day comfort
• Embossed hard case and microfiber cleaning cloth included
• Oh and by the way, they’re Guaranteed for life, designed and handcrafted in the USA in over 200 steps. 

You don’t need sunglasses to have a great summer. Summer has a beauty of it’s own, just waiting for you to shape it’s storyline. But, there’s something about sunglasses that does become the face of summer – in every photo, memory and experience you share with family, friends, or even on your own as you take the time to embrace whatever summer means to you.

Why not make yours exceptional.

Curious? Shop the collection at Randolph.

In accordance with the FTC regulations for Influencers, post is in collaboration with gen3marketing. All thoughts, comments and musings are made of my own opinion and honest, personal experience with the products reviewed or mentioned. I hope you’ve found this post informational and inspiring!