The Ultimate Sunglasses Guide
Stylish sunglasses are a wardrobe essential, and their closet currency has only increased with the return of iconic retro iterations. So, whether you prefer ’90s-style oval lenses, directional cat-eye designs or oversized shades, here’s our edit of the best sunnies to shop now…
Cat-eye shades
A perennial favorite, the classic yet contemporary cat-eye style helps to highlight cheekbones and can enliven even the most understated look. Go bold with exaggerated, graphic wing-shaped frames by Dior Eyewear, or look to Balenciaga Eyewear’s rounded tortoiseshell ‘Monaco’ shades for more of a directional feel. Alternatively, opt for a minimalist approach with a clear acetate pair from Oliver Peoples’ collaboration with Khaite, which nod to vintage silhouettes.
Colorful frames
Whether you’re a fan of statement outfits or prefer a more understated look, there’s no denying the transformative appeal of colorful sunglasses. Take note of how street-style stars are wearing theirs and enliven a floaty summer dress or complement bright separates with vibrant sunnies – we love Bottega Veneta’s angular ‘Injection’ style in acid yellow. For something even bolder, try Loewe Eyewear’s rectangular pair from its collaboration with Paula’s Ibiza, or go for Chloé Eyewear’s speckled recycled acetate shades, which are from our NET SUSTAIN edit and exclusive to NET-A-PORTER.
Oval or round lenses
Undeniably classic, oval and spherical shapes are the fail-safe choice for a silhouette that will endure beyond the season, which is why style star and content creator Grece Ghanem is a fan. Sleek styles from Celine Eyewear, Gucci Eyewear and Saint Laurent Eyewear will pair well with everything, while Jacques Marie Mage's frames (named after Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy) will add a touch of ’90s cool to the simplest summer looks.
Aviators
First debuted in the 1930s, the classic aviator style has been a closet mainstay ever since – by the ’70s, they were worn by everyone from Charlotte Rampling to Bianca Jagger. However, while the timeless teardrop shape is never out of style, in recent seasons it has experienced something of a renaissance, with the introduction of colorful lenses that feel fresh and fun. Check out yellow-tinted styles by Tom Ford Eyewear and Bottega Veneta Eyewear that nod to the halcyon days of ’70s California. Alternatively, Saint Laurent Eyewear’s futuristic ‘Amelia’ frames will add a directional finish to any outfit, as shown on the SS24 runway.
Square or rectangular sunglasses
Square-framed sunglasses have come to the fore for both on- and off-duty dressing, with Fendi Eyewear’s ‘Baguette’ style guaranteed to be worn on repeat. Elsewhere, Celine Eyewear’s graphic ‘Bold’ pair is a fashion-girl favorite, while Givenchy Eyewear’s tortoiseshell shades have the brand’s emblematic ‘4G’ logos on the gold-tone arms. Polished square or rectangular frames will look just as good with a casual tank top and jeans as they will with relaxed tailoring.
Oversized sunglasses
This season, retro styles are experiencing a resurgence, and anyone in the habit of hitting the snooze button each morning will be well acquainted with the vital role a pair of oversized sunglasses can play in your life – particularly when it comes to off-duty days. Bottega Veneta Eyewear’s sleek D-frame shades come in a directional silhouette and look effortlessly chic with a black sundress. If you’re in the market for shades with face-concealing proportions, look to Loewe Eyewear + Paula’s Ibiza’s oversized style, which have statement square frames and deep-blue lenses.
RELATED READING
The people featured in this story are not associated with NET-A-PORTER and do not endorse it or the products shown