There are two types of people: Those who wear sunglasses year-round, and those who reserve them for spring and summer. Though there are arguments for the former (not least to protect your eyes from the winter sun), I've always belonged to the latter camp. It might sound silly, but I always enjoy the first outing of my favourite shades—it's my small way of marking the beginning of sunshine season.
As we're now well into summer, it feels appropriate to talk about the sunglasses I want to wear as I sip mojitos and catch rays on the beach. I definitely lean more toward classic designs, such as tortoiseshell cat-eye frames or black aviators, but I do get a kick out of perusing the glasses stand at my local John Lewis and trying out new trending shapes in front of the mirror. And occasionally, if a pair flatters my face shape and feels like a fresh addition, I might just branch out of my comfort zone and add it to my collection.
2023 is a year rich in stand-out sunglasses trends, and we've rounded up the most note-worthy so you can decide which is for you. Scroll on to see the top 5 sunglasses trends for 2023 and shop the best of the bunch.
1. '70s Aviators
Style Notes: We've all got the '70s bug after watching Daisy Jones & The Six, but retro aviators were already set for a resurgence before the show's release. We're specifically seeing styles featuring metal rims doing the rounds on Instagram.
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If COS has given it the seal of approval, you know it's a trend worth trying.
These sunnies make me want to listen to Fleetwood Mac while strolling down Sunset Boulevard. Anyone else?
This isn't the only dreamy pair in Chloé's SS23 selection.
More on tinted lenses later...
2. White Frames
Style Notes: Subtlety certainly isn't a word we'd use to describe 2023's sunglasses trends, and this next one is no exception. Fashion people are rocking thick white frames this season, often in oval shapes, making them a prominent feature of their outfits rather than a practical afterthought.
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Made in Italy, and in my eyes, perfect for an Italian getaway.
A more budget-friendly option.
Cat-eye shapes are also a popular choice this year.
These angular frames feel very directional.
3. Supersized Sunnies
Style Notes: Thanks to designers like Loewe and Celine, extra-large sunnies are in the spotlight once more. When you're recovering from a holiday hangover or are running errands makeup-less, you'll be grateful for this trend.
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We've been so impressed by Mango's sunglasses offering lately.
Protective and stylish—what more could you want from a pair of sunglasses?
I'm always drawn to tortoiseshell.
Such an interesting shape.
4. Narrow Frames
Style Notes: In a nod to the noughties, labels from Saint Laurent to Gucci are embracing ultra-narrow acetate and thin-wire frames. Try styling yours with a halterneck and low-slung trousers for a full Y2K look.
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These have gone straight in my basket.
& Other Stories has some of the best shades on the high street.
A Y2K take on the cat-eye.
Do these look like something a noughties dad would wear? Yes. Are we obsessed? Yes.
5. Rose-Tinted Lenses
Style Notes: Tinted lenses in general are a trend, but rosy hues are definitely dominating. From soft pink-tinged styles to full-on Barbie designs, there's no end of cheerful sunglasses to choose from.
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Two trends in one.
These feel quite futuristic.
I love the colour gradient on this pair.
These dainty frames would be perfect for a smarter look.
This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
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