Here in New York, we have a pretty skewed notion of “nature” – an afternoon on one’s rooftop would suffice as a truly outdoor experience. Nevertheless, whatever time we do spend in the sun, we want to keep it cool as much as any other town. In the NYC office, our top sunglasses picks for the spring range from classic (with a twist) to Gaga-inspired to high-tech.

Ann-Sofie Back’s Dripping Sunglasses are a surreal take on the timeless aviators, while Suncloud Optics artfully merges form and function, combining flattering frames with high-performance lenses. Oliver Peoples has a great collection for Balmain, infusing a bit of old-world glamour. And Alexander Wang, of course, has taken a cue from some of the hot young chanteuses on the scene, creating a line of sunglasses that would be appropriate in a Beyonce or a Lady Gaga music video: attention-grabbing and designed for a woman with major cojones.

Ann-Sofie Back’s Dripping Sunglasses, available at Opening Ceremony. Image via Racked.com.

Oliver Peoples for Balmain. Image via Elle.com

Alexander Wang. Image via WWD.

Alexander Wang. Image via Nitrolicious.com.

Suncloud Optics. Image via Suncloudoptics.com