HOW THE COST OF SUNGLASSES MOUNTS UP

EYE TEST: Up to £50

CONSIDER budgeting £50 to see an independent optician who focuses on tailoring glasses to individual needs. In Scotland, NHS eye tests are free of charge for all, but south of the Border those aged 60 or over are eligible for a free NHS eye test, while those on benefits and with existing problems such as glaucoma can also get a free eye test.

FRAMES: £25 to £300

DO not focus on designer labels – the primary consideration should be fit. It does not matter how much you spend, they must be comfortable.

SUNLIGHT PROTECTION: £100 or more

ULTRAVIOLET ray protection, polarised lenses and anti-glare coatings all offer sun protection for your eyes. Reflective-free and scratch-resistant coating will make lenses more practical and longer lasting.

THE LENSES: £50 to £350

THE lens construction will vary depending on whether you are short-sighted (concave curves) or long-sighted (convex). Standard lenses may be sold as ‘free’ but you pay for them as part of a package.

Those with strong prescriptions should consider spending more – at least an extra £50 – for high density lenses. If both short and long-sighted, consider opting for bifocals or varifocals – adding a further £100 or so to the cost.

Designer makers such as Nikon, Zeiss and Essilor make top quality lenses that can widen an area of sharp view. But you will be paying for the brand and this extra £200 cost might be hard to justify.