Ray-Ban Folding Wayfarers

KNOW WHEN TO FOLD ’EM Perhaps it’s because I collected Transformers as a kid, but I’ve always had a special place in my heart for unassuming objects that fold. So, last month, when a friend showed me his new pair of Ray-Ban Folding Wayfarers at a rooftop birthday party, I knew they would be my must-have item for summer. The classic shades (think Tom Cruise in Risky Business) have been cool for decades—they date back to 1952—and this folding version makes them even cooler. Hinges on the plastic frames’ bridge and arms allow the glasses to fold easily to the size of a single lens. Ray-Bans aren’t exactly budget friendly, so if you’re looking for something more affordable (and decidedly less stylish), I’ve found a pair of folding aviators at gogglesandglasses.com for just $25. But, really, you can’t go wrong with the real deal, which Solstice Sunglass Boutique in the 900 Shops (900 N Michigan Ave, 312-274-1617) carries for $149. In my book, these Ray-Ban sequels are even more exciting than Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen.