While designer sunglasses gained popularity through film stars and television celebrities, today, thanks to online sites which offer affordable branded sunglasses, anyone can own a pair. Indulging in a pair of branded glasses can add oodles of style and confidence to any outfit and make the wearer feel trendy and fashionable.

However, frugal pundits will still raise red flags against owning a pair. Their argument? Designer sunglasses cost much more money and provide the same features a regular store bought pair will. True or false?

There’s no denying a good pair of designer sunglasses comes infused not only with the style and personality of the designer – be it Gucci, Prada, Ray Ban or Versace – but also with their stamp of quality. And make no mistake, while some claim all designer brands are produced in the same Italian factories that pharmacy bought brands are manufactured in, the fact remains a designer brand will not get approval for sale without its quality being authenticated versace sunglasses.

But here’s a look at why you should invest in a pair of quality branded sunglasses:

They protect your health. That’s right, they are more than just eye candy or a trendy accessory for your outfit. A good pair of sunglasses will protect your eyes against the harmful damage the sun’s UV rays can cause. It can also protect the eyes against sunburn, skin cancer and wrinkles. They generally come with high quality lenses which do not distort color or shapes, causing less strain on the eyes.

They come with a guarantee. When bought from a reputable store, the sunglasses come with the manufacturer’s warranty, a 14 day money back, no hassle guarantee, and if applicable, with the designer case and cloth. You know you are getting more bang for your buck when you invest in something branded.

They provide style and comfort. Designer sunglasses can make trendy accessories at an affordable cost. You don’t have to spend thousands to vamp up your style. Just slip on a pair of Dolce & Gabbana and your outfit is immediately updated as is your confidence. Select a timeless style such as vintage Tory Burch which you can pair with any outfit.

The advantage of designer glasses is that they are created with plenty of love and thought poured into each pair, something that replica sunglasses cannot achieve. Think of your favorite designer, be it Versace or Armani. Each sunglass design produced by them has gone through the drawing board and design and planning stages before they are finally produced. What you then own is a pair of designer history that cannot be replicated in a store bought brand.

So what about those naysayers who claim their pairs of sunglasses get lost, sat on or broken? A good designer pair of sunglasses is a long term investment and should be treated as such. Just as you would take care of your accessories – handbags, ties, scarves and belts – so would you your designer sunglasses. Store them carefully when not in use in the box they came in, and clean them regularly with the soft cloth which prevents scratches and damage to the lenses.

And if price is an issue holding you back, it shouldn’t be. You can get fantastic affordable deals on a variety of brands and styles including Burberry, Gucci, Prada and Versace. So take advantage of them and invest in a pair that suits your lifestyle and your budget.