Can You See Me Now?

Betting a Bold Look Will Get Me a Second Glance

The author wearing her new shades

Seeing yourself reflected in another’s eyes can sometimes clarify your own vision.

I had just completed an eye exam and walked over to the display of sunglasses frames. Most were muted, similar in shape and color and most just didn’t look like “me.” Gravitating toward the bolder, statement-making pairs, I tried on a tortoise-shell cat-eye; a bold, black pair that signaled celebrity; and a squarish pair in tones of blue, purple and tan. Undecided, I hoped the optician might help me narrow my selection. She was kind and patient, and about two decades younger than I am.

I tried on each pair in turn, and noticed her lack of enthusiasm. She commented that most were not covered by my insurance, and perhaps she could help me find ones that wouldn’t cost me extra. I followed her back to the display. She showed me one plain, boring frame after another.

The optician wasn’t getting my need to look distinctive, to avoid blending. Then again, she is not 61.

In my younger days, forays to the shopping mall used to be fraught. Trying on trendy fashions made me feel like a fraud. My inner critic was full of snide comments. Do you really think you can get away with that outfit? Sure, those shoes are plenty sexy, but knowing you, you’ll fall and…