Sunglasses are a form of protective eyewear designed primarily to prevent bright sunlight and high-energy visible light from damaging or discomforting the eyes. They can sometimes also function as a visual aid, featuring lenses that are colored, polarized, or darkened, and are often worn for aesthetic reasons in fashion. In addition to their practical use in protecting the eyes from UV light, sunglasses are an important accessory in many cultures and are often associated with style and personal expression.