Choosing the perfect pair of sunglasses can be an endless case of trial and error. Once you’ve taken UV protection, frame size and even your prescription into account, it’s easy to become stumped when it comes to choosing the ideal shade style.
From classic cat-eyes to modern wayfarers, we’re certainly spoilt for choice when picking out the perfect pair of sunglasses. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or simply want to try out a new style this summer, you’ve come to the right place.
Read on as we teach you how to choose the right pair of sunglasses for you and reveal the on-trend shade styles of 2023 that you’ll be itching to wear this season.
What should the perfect pair of sunglasses feel like?
Your sunglasses should feel like a second skin. Not only should they rest comfortably on your face, but they should blend in perfectly with your features and enhance your natural beauty.
“Sunglasses should fit snugly and comfortably on the face without too much pressure,” claims NYC-based optometrist, Lilan Le, OD. “The frames should not dig into the cheeks when you smile or leave indentations where it rests on the nose.”
The key here is to measure your face shape and choose your shades accordingly. The right size frame should sit perfectly against your temples and reduce pressure on your ears.
If you’ve got sensitive temples, why not opt for a malleable wired frame that can be adjusted for your comfort? Plastic frames tend to hold their shape for longer but can be rather unforgiving when it comes to adaptability.
“The arms of the glasses should wrap gently over the top of your eyes without the temples digging into the back or side of your head,” continues Dr. Le. “A quick check for snugness is to wear sunglasses and look down towards the ground while shaking your head from side to side. If it slides off then it is too loose.”
Comfort is essential when choosing the right pair of sunglasses. Once you’ve found the right fit for your face shape and size, it’s time to start customising your frame style.
Which shade style should you choose?
The list of potential shade styles may seem endless, but we’re confident that the perfect pair of sunglasses is just waiting to be found.
Whether you’re searching for a pair of sporty shades or want to add some timeless glamour to your summer look, we’ve found five trending sunglasses designs that’ll make choosing your next pair of specs a piece of cake.
Modern Wayfarers
If you’ve heard of Ray-Ban, you will have heard of the wayfarer style. Taking a modern twist on classic aviator style shades, wayfarers are currently the most popular style of shades on the market.
This could be due to their wide size range, frame versatility and adaptability to almost any face shape. With a square style frame, finished with rounder edges, wayfarers can be dressed up or down and make the perfect summer season accompaniment.
Vintage Aviators
While aviators were first designed for pilots in the 1920s, they have since become a vintage style statement worn by the likes of Tom Cruise and Zac Effron.
Manufactured with signature thin metal frames, aviators tend to follow a curved shape with a large lens. Aviators work best on a heart-shaped face. Designed to be wider at the top and tapered towards the bottom, they complement any face with rounder features.
Classic Cat-Eyes
If you’re striving for effortless glamour this summer, cat-eyes could be the perfect pick for you. Styled famously by Audrey Hepburn, these grand yet graceful frames resemble the outwards flick of a cat’s eye.
While the frames of these sunglasses tend to be bolder, they enhance natural facial features with ease. If you’re looking to add some 50’s chic to your summer lookbook, embrace your inner Hepburn and pair these shades with a timeless black dress.
Sporty Wrap Around
Do you enjoy being active during the summer? If you’re a keen cyclist or aim to take up tennis in the warmer months, why not invest in wrap-around style shades? Shop active sunglasses designed for performance and comfort, keeping your eyes protected from UV rays while staying stylish.
Also described as ‘shield sunglasses’ wrap-around styles do exactly as it says on the tin – wrap around your face. Their ergonomic design ensures that your peripherals are also covered, improving your field of vision on the courts and on the track.
Funky Geometric
Last but not least, if your aim is to stand out this summer, why not hope on eyewear’s newest style trend, geometric shades?
Not only are geometric shapes bold, bright and beautiful, but they pair perfectly with any face shape. Thanks to their sharp angled design, they accentuate round facial features while effortlessly complementing those with more angular features.
Better still, if you still want to incorporate some vintage charm into your look, why not check out geometric aviators? Reworking the historic tear-drop shape into a sharper, structured pair of specs, enjoy blending classic and modern styles for the best of both worlds this summer.
With the sunny season fast approaching, it’s time to take the plunge and purchase your first pair of stand-out shades. Not only are they essential in protecting your eyes from harmful UV rays, but they’re the perfect accessory for a summer outfit that’s ready to shine.
Images from DSCENE STYLE STORIES: Dance Alone by Nikolas-Petros Androbik – See the full story here
