7 Eyewear Trends the Fashion Crowd Will Flock to in 2020
Let's face it—nothing wields greater power over your outfit than a pair of sunglasses (or eyeglasses, for that matter). Think about it: If you've settled on the perfect pair that makes a statement but still somehow goes with everything, it will take your look from zero to 100 in an instant. But on the other hand, make the mistake of leaving it at home, and your outfit can never really live its best life. The good news is that you're mere moments away from finding your next pair of shades to wear all year long.
The fashion world has spoken, and it's been decided that the following seven eyewear trends will be the most important in 2020. Because even if sunglasses are an afterthought for you, simply updating the pair you grab before leaving the house to a fresher style will go a long way. Which is where we come in.
From classic aviators to oversized granny glasses, we're breaking down the coolest glasses that are in style right now. Ahead, shop the trends and see how fashion girls are wearing them.
1. Ageless Aviators
Get ready, because a return to aviator shades is happening this year. The spring runways were flooded with the classic sunglasses, notably at Celine and Michael Kors, where they felt very now. If you never gave up on them and still keep a pair in your rotation then you're in luck. But if you, like me, paused them until now, we love the below pairs. But really, when it comes to aviators, you can't go wrong with Ray-Ban's timeless version.
It doesn't get more classic than Ray-Ban's aviators, and this rosy tint is a fresh take on the signature shades.
2. Granny Glasses
Microscopic sunglasses are (finally) giving way to the oversize shapes. Warm tones, tortoiseshell, and retro square shapes are all the details to look out for here, but really, any pair that feels like something your grandma might have worn is a sure bet.
Style this pair with a silk scarf in your hair for the ultimate retro vibe.
3. Early-Aughts Eyewear
Paging Paris Hilton. The year might be 2020, but when it comes to this throwback eyewear trend, we're channeling the early aughts. Think translucent colored lenses and rimless frames. Le Specs hits the nail on the head with their aptly dubbed That's Hot pair.
Rimless sunglasses are a low-key fashion risk, but this pair feels totally doable.
4. Matrix 2.0
We may be doing away with micro-sunglasses, but the '90s film is still as relevant as ever. If The Matrix were adapted for 2020, the shades would be slightly bigger and the shapes more angular and sharp.
Wear these with a claw hair clip and hoops and you're basically Bella Hadid.
5. Chained and Bound
Coming at you with another "grandma" trend. While sunglass chains aren't actually an eyewear trend, they're eyewear-adjacent and they're having such a moment that we couldn't not include them. We're seeing these chains emerge in everything from sophisticated pearls and playful beads and classic gold chains, so if you needed another reason to raid your grandmother's closet, this is it.
Pack this for your next beach vacation. Or book one to wear them, we won't tell.
6. Wide-Armed Wonders
While it's more of a detail to look out for than a larger movement, sunglasses with wide sides are a micro-trend we felt we couldn't leave out, simply because there are so many options to choose from. We love the angular shape of these and suggest wearing a pulled-back hairstyle to show off their cool shape.
The sides of these are next-level.
7. Blue Light Blockers
If you were that kid who always wanted a reason to wear glasses but had 20/20 vision, well, now's your chance. Perfect eyesight or not, fashion people are jumping at the chance to wear anti-blue light glasses or simply embracing their prescriptions. Seeing just how many chic optical options are out there, we can totally get on board.
These are Jennifer Lopez–approved. Just saying.
Ever wanted to cast yourself as an extra in a Nancy Myers movie?
This brand is a trove of stylish anti–blue light opticals.
Speaking of accessories, read about the five pretty face-mask trends to know before your next restock.
Anna is an editor on the fashion team at Who What Wear and has been at the company for over five years, having begun her career in the Los Angeles office before relocating to New York, where she's currently based. Having always been passionate about pursuing a career in fashion, she built up her experience interning at the likes of Michael Kors, A.L.C., and College Fashionista before joining the team as a post-graduate assistant editor. Anna has penned a number of interviews with Who What Wear's cover stars over the years, including A-listers Megan Fox, Issa Rae, and Emma Chamberlain. She's earned a reputation for scouting new and emerging brands from across the globe and championing them to our audience of millions. While fashion is her main wheelhouse, Anna led the launch of WWW Travels last year, a new lifestyle vertical that highlights all things travel through a fashion-person lens. She is passionate about shopping vintage, whether it be at a favorite local outpost or an on-the-road discovery, and has amassed a wardrobe full of unique finds. When she's not writing, you can find her shooting street imagery on her film camera, attempting to learn a fourth or fifth language, or planning her next trip across the globe.
-
The Affordable Trend New Yorkers Will Wear Instead of Suede This Winter
Chic and cheerful.
By Natalie Cantell
-
J.Lo Wore the Elegant Trend That Makes Every Outfit Look Like It Came From an Audrey Hepburn Movie
From Charade to Breakfast at Tiffany's.
By Eliza Huber
-
Meet This Holiday Season's Most Covetable Accessories
Yes, this is a gifting hint.
By Eliza Huber
-
From Miu Miu Model to Gabbriette Coded: 20 Eyeglasses That Are *Actually* Chic
These picks are 20/20.
By Ana Escalante
-
I Have $300 and a Goal of Looking Rich—42 Fall Accessories That Fit All My Needs
Add instant polish.
By Nikki Chwatt
-
I'm Manifesting Rich Vibes for Fall—31 Expensive-Looking Nordstrom Sale Finds That Fit the Bill
Don't sleep on these under-$150 gems.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
Brooches, Scarves, and Suede Flats: 23 Under-$75 Fall Items That Will Amp Up Your Jeans
They'll instantly elevate your outfit.
By Ana Escalante
-
These Chic Finds From Amazon's October Prime Day Feel Very 2025—30 I’m Adding to Cart
Most are under $50.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes