As a blogger, I often get all sorts of e-mails asking me to plug products, books, links, etc., but rarely do I receive requests for things I can relate to. When I started this blog, I hoped that one day I’d be able to collaborate with some of my favorite brands or maybe land some sponsors, but most of the offers I’ve gotten so far haven’t really been my style…until now.

If you’re a regular reader of this blog, you’ve probably noticed by now that sunglasses are one of my favorite accessories. I never leave the house without them, and I’ve started to acquire quite the collection.

So, when Costa offered me the opportunity to try out a pair of their new women’s styles for summer, I happily agreed. Finally!

The pair I chose is called Islamorada. (This style isn’t available on the Costa website quite yet, but they will be soon.) I picked black/coral frames and grey polycarbonate lenses. They’re very square, and I love that they’re so different from all of my other sunglasses.

As much as I can appreciate a pretty pair of designer shades, I’ve got to say that these blow all of my designer sunglasses out of the water. With polarized lenses and nylon composite frames, these glasses are the real deal. They’re lightweight, crystal clear, and fit like a glove. They’ve got all the attributes of a sporty pair of sunglasses, but they’re gorgeous and girly, too!

Costa is a brand traditionally well-known by fisherman, sailors and surfers for their high-end polarized sunglasses. They’ve been around since 1983, and have a pretty interesting history if you want to check it out on their website. (Jacques Cousteau wore Costas!)

The Islamorada is one of Costa’s four new women’s styles for summer 2011. The other three include Little Harbor, Tippet and Hammock (available soon). All four are available in a variety of colors and lens shades, and Costa also offers glass lenses, which I bet are amazing. (Check out this similar pair of on the Costa website to see all the color combinations you can choose from).

I’m loving the little nose pads on the inside, too. They keep the glasses from sliding off my face if I lean over (which I do a lot because I’m clumsy, and I drop things) and also make them really comfortable to wear. For the price, I think these Costas offer more bang for your buck than most other brands on the market right now. (And I speak from experience — I try on tons of sunglasses.)

Thank you so much to Costa for giving me these beautiful glasses to review. They’ve quickly moved to the top of my list of favorite pairs, and I’ll definitely be wearing them at the beach (and lots of other places) all summer long!

P.S. I also know that Costa does a lot to protect the environment, water, fisheries, and fish, partnering with organizations like the Coastal Conservation Association and the Bonefish Tarpon Trust. They also created the Blue Highway documentary and blog, aimed at preserving the Lynn Canal in Alaska.

While I was writing this review I dabbled on their website for awhile, and I’m really impressed. It’s always neat to discover a company who gives back. =)