Emiratis Ahmed Al Aqeeli, left, and Adel Galadari sell vintage sunglasses, including the brand famously worn by Sheikh Zayed. Satish Kumar / The National
Emiratis Ahmed Al Aqeeli, left, and Adel Galadari sell vintage sunglasses, including the brand famously worn by Sheikh Zayed. Satish Kumar / The National
Emiratis Ahmed Al Aqeeli, left, and Adel Galadari sell vintage sunglasses, including the brand famously worn by Sheikh Zayed. Satish Kumar / The National
Emiratis Ahmed Al Aqeeli, left, and Adel Galadari sell vintage sunglasses, including the brand famously worn by Sheikh Zayed. Satish Kumar / The National

Not just sunglasses


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We live in a climate where sunglasses are a necessity rather than just a fashion accessory, but that doesn’t mean we can’t be stylish when protecting our eyes. We ought to be proud that rather than emulating the sunglasses Hollywood or Bollywood stars are wearing, many here are taking their fashion cues closer to home.

As we reported yesterday, Sheikh Zayed's classic aviator-style sunglasses – a model known as Carrera Champion – are a frequent inspiration. Within minutes of landing in Abu Dhabi International, an image of the country's founding father sporting his trademark sunglasses can be seen on the walls of the terminal, alongside his quote about the need to invest in our people.

But as millions of fashionistas around the world already know, copy­ing the style only contributes to part of the overall image. One reason Sheikh Zayed could carry off the aviators look was because he was universally admired, not the other way round.