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Sunglasses are an underrated accessory. While praised for their practical purposes (i.e. preventing one from being blinded by the sun) they’re often overlooked for their ability to either transform or complete an outfit. They are small, but they’re mighty. And in the year 2020, the sunglasses market is wide and vast. There’s more than just the usual Wayfarers and aviators (although there’s no discrediting those perennial classics) but a variety of silhouettes in a variety of colors (and a variety of price points). It’s certainly smart to have a classic pair in your arsenal that you can always rely on, but it couldn’t hurt to have a few extra pairs for when you want to experiment with your look without committing to a full outfit. Sometimes all you need is a white tee, blue jeans and a great pair of shades.
Izipizi E Sunglasses
Tortoiseshell sunglasses aren’t anything new, but pairs in this particular shade of the pattern are few and far between. These “Light Tortoise” shades by Izipizi give the classic pattern an update and even veer into tie-dye-esque territory.
Raen Optics Bastien
If you’re indecisive when it comes to your sunglasses silhouette and can’t decided between wire frame or something more substantial, Raen’s Bastien pair is perfect for those who like a little bit of everything.
Warby Parker Brewer Sunglasses
Oversized sunglasses tend to dominate, but it’s time we give slimmer ones their due. Warby Parker’s Brewer Sunglasses, from their new Sun Series collection, are slim n’ sleek, perfect for those who don’t want their face to be dwarfed by their sunglasses.
Persol 649
One of the most iconic pair of sunglasses, the Persol 649s are notoriously difficult to pull off, but if you’re able to, then more power to you, and if not, wear them anyway because who cares? Unfortunately, we can’t all be Steve McQueen.
Urban Outfitters New Square Sunglasses
Maybe you have a tendency to lose your shades and are fearful of investing in a pricey pair. Before you relegate yourself to a gas station pair, consider these by Urban Outfitters. The universally flattering silhouette is lent a slightly vintage feel thanks to the yellow lenses, and they’re a mere $20. Who knows, maybe you won’t lose them after all.
J.Crew Dock Sunglasses
J.Crew’s selection of sunglasses is not to be ignored, especially this classic tortoiseshell pair that’s not quite round nor quite square, but a happy medium. At $65, it doesn’t get much better than this.
RETROSUPERFUTURE America Sunglasses
It doesn’t get more basic than this (in a good way, we mean). These black square-framed sunglasses by RETROSUPERFUTURE are ideal for those in search of a pair to carry them through every occasion and season, all while retaining an air of cool.
Warby Parker for Alex Mill Downing Sunglasses
Sometimes you want a classic silhouette, just not quite so … expected (i.e. boring). This pair by Warby Parker, crafted just for Alex Mill, takes the familiar round silhouette and casts them in a monochromatic green. Use them to break up an otherwise boring outfit and leave others green with envy.
Acne Studios D-Frame Acetate Sunglasses
For those plagued by baby face, consider a more angular pair of sunglasses, like these Acne Studios D-Frame ones. The sharp and clearly defined lines will bring some much needed definition and contrast to softer, more rounder face shapes.
Krewe Lafayette Sunglasses
For those tried-and-true aviator wearers out there, don’t be afraid to switch it up the slightest bit with these Krewe Lafayette sunglasses. The gold-plated metal bridge retains the classic aviator feel but will allow for a completely different aesthetic.
Han Kjobenhavn Yellow Moon Sunglasses
Another slimmer pair, there’s something about these Han Kjobenhavn (what a mouthful) that have an espionage feel to them, and will leave people wondering, “Who is that guy?”
Oakley Frogskins Lite
Turns out, Oakley makes sunglasses other than those weird wraparound ones, and they’re actually pretty good. Take these Frogskins Lite for example — they’re simultaneously stylish and sporty, a rare feat when it comes to eyewear.
Ray-Ban Aviator Classic
What’s a list of sunglasses without the classic Ray-Ban Aviators? Incomplete, that’s what it is.
Le Specs Alto Sunglasses
Round wireless frames are great, but wearing them always runs the risk of looking too John Lennon-y. A hexagonal pair like these Le Specs Alto Sunglasses will lend the same retro, Beatnik look, without leaving you looking like a Beatles wannabe.
Sun Buddies Lubna Sunglasses
It happens but sometimes you just inexplicably get sick of color and want something completely colorless, we’re talking not even black. When that’s the case, these crystal clear Lubna glasses by Sun Buddies will be the palate cleanser you’re in desperate need of.
Moscot x Todd Snyder Miltzen Sunglasses
Olive appears to be Todd Snyder’s designated color of the season, and the brand couldn’t resist bringing their signature color to this pair of sunglasses made in collaboration with Moscot. Plus, the storied optical brand delved into their family archives for the collaboration, sourcing the inspiration for this pair from the original 1930s style.
Flatlist Tishkoff Square-Frame Acetate Sunglasses
We’re willing to bet you don’t own a pair of sunglasses quite as bold as this Flatlist’s Tishkoff pair, but now’s your chance. They’re certainly not for the faint-hearted, but you know what they say, go big or go home.
Akila Apollo Sunglasses
Put the sun in sunglasses with this cheery yellow pair by Akila Apollo. You’ll be your own personal ray of sunshine.
Illesteva Georgetown Sunglasses
Maybe not the most practical of pairs, these Illesteva Georgetown sunglasses are probably best suited for overcast days when the sun isn’t in full force. Super functional? Maybe not so much. Extremely cool? Without a doubt. And really, isn’t that all that matters — who cares if your vision is impaired?
Gucci Square-Frame Acetate Sunglasses
Surprisingly, this is one of Gucci’s more sober pairs of shades. The mottled effect of the frames isn’t quite tortoiseshell, and the yellow lenses lend them a distinctly 70s feel, without veering into costume territory. We think Harry Styles would approve.
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