I love digging into sunglasses, because while they serve a real purpose of protecting your eyes, they are such fun accessories that can instantly change the vibe of a look and are a wardrobe essential. In the summer, I tend to wear pretty simple looks but love to play around with my sunglasses, jewelry, bags, and footwear. I own a pretty wide range that I’ve collected over the years, and I always find it exciting shopping for a new pair to fill in a gap or bring something fresh into the mix.
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I find that there are a few end-uses for sunnies - ranging from helping to elevate or add an unexpected touch to an outfit, to shielding your eyes while chasing your kids around on the beach. Some of my most cherished sunglasses that started as special investment pieces, have now turned into the pairs I will casually throw into my tote bag, as they’ve already weathered the sandy beaches, and greasy sunscreen. So now I’ve learned to separate my special sunglasses from the less precious pairs that I don’t mind wearing into a swimming pool while catching my kid from a waterslide. I don’t mind shelling out for something high quality, or just look just right on my face.
I’ve broken down some of my favorite current styles, most of which feel classic and timeless enough to justify a designer option, or if it suits you better, there are lots of great options here that won’t break the bank (or allows you to add more variety to the mix). It’s summer, and sunglasses are fun.
I always love a pair that feel like they make a statement through the shape, the proportion, or the color/material. They can add a playful element to an otherwise simple look.
Statement Aviators
From top to bottom: These frames by Elisa Johnson come in so many fun color combinations, but I love this one the most. I have two pairs of these by Eva Masaki, in both a sunglass as well as an optical pair and they are personal faves. This clear pair by Warby Parker is great - I find their quality really nice for the price.
Fresh Take on a Wayfarer
From top to bottom: I’m obsessed with the color of these from Warby Parker. The green polarized lenses are crystal clear and have the perfect level of tint. I love to drive in them! I have this pair by Celine in 2 colors because I love the slightly oversized proportion and I love how luxe the weight of the acetate feels. I love Raen for their takes on classic shapes that come in really elevated colorways. This pair by Warby Parker is a nice oversized rectangular shape and comes in two chic colors. I find this shape to be flattering and modern.
Cat Eye
From top to bottom: I’ve always had a soft spot for a good cat eye, it was my frame of choice in the 90s and I’m so happy it’s back. Love this modernized shape from Madewell. This chic pair by J.Crew is a classic. This pair by Fifth and Ninth has a little extra attitude and also happens to be a great price.
Oval Frames
From top to bottom: Classic tortoise frames by Le Specs, these Khaite x Oliver Peoples frames feel so fresh in the transparent frame with green lenses, this tonal pair by Elisa Johnson, and it’s always fun to play with pop of color, this pair by Madewell.
Wire Oval Frames
From top to bottom: Love this squat oval shape frame by Le Specs, if you’re willing to spend more, this pair by Khaite x Oliver Peoples is gorgeous with the slight cat eye shape, rectangular shape by Illesteva, an easy classic shape from Warby Parker
Round-ish Wire Frame
From top to bottom: This frame from the Row x Eyevan is what I decided to splurge on this Summer, and it appears they are currently sold out in the green. I love the slightly angled edges that make them feel more interesting but still classic. I found a couple of options that feel Row-ish. The subtle shaping and polished gold frames by Warby Parker, this pair by Illesteva are on sale now and make a great stand-in.
Eyevan
This is the Japanese label that The Row collaborated with on the Sidney frames, and I love their in-line styles just as much. There are so many incredibly designed silhouettes, material combinations and colors to choose from. Here are a few of my favorites. The first pair bear a shape resemblance to the Sidney style. I always love an acetate and wire combination like these. This black pair are so chic and timeless.
Loved this review.
You always know what I’ve been looking for