Unless they're those terrible, tiny 90s skiing sunglasses (as worn by men dressed by their mothers) then sunglasses make anyone look hot. Or, at the very least, way hotter than normal, even if you're mega hungover and wearing a crusty film of last night's makeup.
Up until now, we figured it was just some sort of magical voodoo placed on all sunglasses during the manufacturing process, but it turns out that science has come up with a legitimate reason they make us all look so fit. Oh, science. God bless you.
Speaking to New York Magazine, Vanessa Brown (who's the senior lecturer of Art and Design at Nottingham Trent uni) explained how shades even out asymmetries - and a symmetrical face is scientifically proven to be found more attractive - as well as creating the appearance of chiselled cheek bones. It goes slightly deeper than sorting out any wonks and giving you Angelina cheeks, though; we read people through eye contact, so if the eyes are shielded then it genuinely adds a sense of mystery. Which also adds a sexual thrill, and we don't have to explain the link between mystery and fancying someone loads, do we?
For anyone confused, just think of the tall, dark and handsome stranger fantasy. There's a reason the cliche isn't an accessible, totally unintimidating friendly guy who says things like 'hey I'm John do you want a loyal partner who'll take the bins out?'.
There's also a psychological effect on the wearer too; because they feel like they can't be scrutinised, people in sunglasses are apparently more at ease with doing selfish or dishonest stuff. That barrier acts as a behavioural barrier too, giving those sporting shades a sense of invincibility. Like batman, if he wore shades.
Finally, the link between celebrities and sunglasses was solidified in the 50s and 60s in order to protect themselves from the glare of paparazzi flashbulbs, which is the reason why you automatically feel like a star when sticking on a pair. Even if you're popping to Tesco for some milk in your trackies.
Basically, science admits that wearing sunglasses is both cool and make you a superhero - which is a reason to crack them out whenever, wherever. Apart from indoors because it just looks a bit naff. Plus, you won't be able to see anything.
Has this moved you to go out an buy a pair of shades RIGHT NOW? We trawled the streets, and simplified sunglasses shopping so you don't have to.
**Follow Stevie Martin on Twitter: @5tevieM **
Picture: Jason Lloyd-Evans
This article originally appeared on The Debrief.