Summer eyewear is visibly different

While fakes are illegal to sell or purchase, they have a more attractive price tag at NT$1,500 to NT$3,000 per pair and are often sold outside major department stores.

For cheap thrills, there is no shortage of inexpensive sunglasses made in the not-so-exact image of famous brand names. These can be found at night market vendors and in Ximending for NT$290 to NT$500 a pair. It is unlikely, however, that they have the same ultra-violet (UV) 400-500 polycarbonate lenses for UV protection that optical stores guarantee.

The numerous styles available can make choosing a new pair of sunglasses slightly daunting. Rain Lee (李鎮宇), a sales agent at an eyewear outlet in Taipei's Breeze Center, recommends visiting several shops and trying on a range of styles before making a final purchase. According to him, customers should choose a frame that contrasts their face shape. Likewise, a good sales agent (or friend) can provide advice and help narrow down the options.