Sunglasses are a near-universal accessory.
Almost everyone has at least one pair, if not several. We wear them year-round to protect our eyes and/or look good with our outfits.
If you’re in the market for new shades, it’s hard to know where to begin. There are so many styles of frames. How are you supposed to know what you want?
This guide is here to help. It covers the major styles of sunglasses you’ll find when shopping and tips for picking the right frames for you. While it ultimately comes down to personal preference, we want to equip you to shop as knowledgeably as possible.
Rectangle
Rectangular frame lenses are longer than they are wide, making them easy to spot. They’re a classic shape that looks good on almost anyone. While called rectangles, their soft corners don’t make the shape too obvious.
Square
Square sunglasses are a bolder version of rectangles. The lenses are the same length on all sides, making them big and eye-catching. Much like rectangular sunglasses, their corners are rounded to make the shape less jarring.
Cats-Eye
Cats-eye glasses are a staple among vintage-fashion lovers. The upturned upper corner, which ranges from barely there to a sharp point, adds a playful look to the glasses.
Round
Despite the name, round sunglasses aren’t circular. They’re more like an extra-rounded rectangle in most cases. The type of frame also makes a big difference in how round they do or don’t look.
Circle
Circle sunglasses can say Harry Potter or 1970s if you’re not careful. But choosing a pair that works well with your face shape can be a fun way to add a unique touch to your outfit.
Oval
For that ’90s Matrix look, give oval sunglasses a try. They’re similar to rectangular glasses but have corners ranging from softly rounded to nonexistent. This style is quite popular right now, especially with the Y2K crowd.
Geometric
Looking for a pair of sunglasses unlike anyone else’s? Try geometric shades. They’re often octagonal or triangular and look great with colored lenses. They may not block UV rays well, but they’re perfect if you just want an accessory.
Aviator
Aviator sunglasses are one of the most recognizable shades since their creation in the 1930s. With thin frames and teardrop-shaped lenses, they look good and stylish on almost everybody. Try getting some with polarized lenses for the complete pilot effect.
Oversize
Oversized sunglasses say drama. You often see them in the movies on characters whose personalities are as big as their glasses. Thanks to their large lenses, they’re quite functional, but most people wear them for the look.
Browline
Browline glasses have a thick upper frame, which is where they get their name. The bottom of the frame is either thin or invisible, making the upper part stand out. It’s a fun, retro style dating back to the 1960s.
Shield/Wrap
These sunglasses are known for being extra protective, thanks to lenses extending across the bridge and sometimes around the sides of your face. You can see them everywhere, from celebrities to athletes.
Shaped
A pair of sunglasses in a fun shape is perfect for a fashion statement, but not eye protection. Popular shapes include hearts, butterflies, and flames, and tend to be worn for events like raves or Ren fairs.
How to Choose a Pair of Sunglasses
Face Shape
Whether or not there’s a perfect pair of frames for every face shape is a hotly debated topic. However, you should take your face shape into consideration when picking glasses. They can help sharpen a round face, soften an angular one, or balance a large chin.
Facial Features
Your facial features also play a big part in the kind of sunglasses you wear. If you have small eyes, you’ll want to avoid frames that make them look smaller or swallow them up. If you have a large nose, the right frames can balance it out and make your face look more proportional.
Style
How do you like to dress? What kind of sunglasses pair best with that? For example, if you like a retro look, cat-eye or browline sunglasses might be perfect for you, while someone with an ultra-modern style might go for a rectangle or aviator style.
Function
What are you getting these sunglasses for? To protect your eyes while doing a sport? To relax on the beach? As a fashion accessory? How much functionality you need will heavily affect which glasses you get.
Sunglass shopping is incredibly fun, especially if you can try on a lot of pairs to find what you like. Your eyes will be protected in style in no time.
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