Sunglasses are a summer staple.
Not only do you want to protect your peepers and the delicate skin around your eyes from damaging UV rays, but you also want to look your best. And there’s nothing like a stunning pair of frames to take your outfit from “OK” to “oh, HEY.” Try any of these on for size:
Round
Round frames typically work on square faces with strong jawlines. These circular frames are totally trendy—without making you look like John Lennon.
Etnia Barcelona’s “AF280” ($230, Shopbop) is a cool alternative to the basic black-and-tortoiseshell frames available almost everywhere. The light yellow frames with powder-blue accents will pop against a bronze complexion—and the colorblocking is perfectly on trend.
Blinde Sunglasses “Never Had it So Good” ($159, Contactsandspecs.com) are not only reasonably priced, but they also come in a shape and color that will never go out of style. The large lenses protect the skin around your eyes, and the chestnut color is universally flattering.
FE NY’s “Bridget” ($22, Nordstrom) only looks expensive; the gold stems and ombré lenses put up an excellent high-fashion façade and are still easy on your wallet. These are perfect for trying out the round-lens trend—if you decide it’s not for you, the financial repercussions are slight.
Aviator
Aves look great on an oval face where their angles help define cheekbones and jawlines. If your face is round, you can also pull off the wide, rectangular frames of an aviator style and look sporty-chic while doing it.
These Tory Burch aviator sunglasses ($165, Toryburch.com) are worth every penny. They scream retro-preppy and orange pop of color will brighten up any outfit.
Michael Kors’ “Jemma” sunnies ($116, Nordstrom) are the perfect blend of classic sporty style and high fashion. Available in 4 colors, there’s a shade for every skin tone.
Ray Ban’s classic large metal aviator ($195) is one of the most popular styles for a reason: the clean lines and delicate frame perfectly contrast the dark lenses. Though available in a plethora of colors, the original gold frames with dark green lenses are a tried-and-true combo that matches every outfit.
Cat Eye
These picks aren’t the oversized costume glasses you’re picturing. Today’s cat-eye lenses are far more understated, and the upturned corners of the lenses work well on oblong, oval and square face shapes, where the soft angles of the glasses play up cheekbones.
Oliver Peoples makes some of the coolest shades around and the “Alisha” cat-eye glasses ($450, Oliver Peoples) are no exception. Available in black, cream and tortoiseshell, the exaggerated brow line emphasizes the sleek silhouette.
Versace is dependably stylish, and their VE4253 glasses ($240, Sunglass Hut) are no exception. The thick, angular frames are fiercely edgy, but the rosy nude shade lightens them up. The metal emblem on each temple offers an eye-catching pop of gold without being too flashy, and the shade works with most skin tones.
GUESS serves up classic style crossed with unabashed sex appeal in their modest GU 7159 cat eyes ($78, Sunglasses Hut). Blush-colored gradient lenses paired with sharply contrasting stems and frames (grey and clear, respectively) can only be described as fashion forward.
Wayfarer
This shape screams “California girl,” and thanks to Ray Ban, the style now comes in a palette of different colors and patterns. Thankfully, other designers are picking up on the trend and creating their own interpretation of the classic shape, which looks best on oblong and oval faces where the corners of the wayfarer highlight bone structure.
Abstract animal print livens up the Sherriff and Cherry “Classic Wild Cat Honey” wayfarer ($145, Shopbop). The frame is relatively oversized and has UV400 lenses. The style is a mix of vintage and modern and would work well on a narrower, oval-shaped face.
Valentino stuns with the “Rock Stud” wayfarer ($346, Nordstrom), a beautiful take on the laid-back surfer style. The aggravated brow line of the frame is lined with just the right number of studs to stand out against the black background.
Elizabeth and James offer up a modified wayfarer with their “Harrington” sunglasses ($155, Shopbop) with thick, softly rounded frames. They come in two flattering colors (basic black and a mustard yellow). The frames have just enough uptown chic to balance out their basic features, and the quiet style works with any outfit. (They’re also a fave of Anne Hathaway!)
