Top 10 Shades For Spring/Summer
If you were to step outside right now, you probably won’t find yourself bathed in sunshine – but with spring just around the corner, it’s time to talk sunglasses.
The eyewear market has took off in recent years, with an increasing amount of high-end, artisanal brands producing frames that not only look great, but are crafted to the highest standard.
Yet with so much choice on the current market, what brands and styles should you be considering if you want to move away from ubiquitous tortoiseshell Clubmasters and black Wayfarers?
Here we showcase ten of our favourite frames on the current market, at a variety of price points.
1. Cutler And Gross D-Frame Acetate Sunglasses
For over 40 years Graham Cutler and Tony Gross have run London-based eyewear brand Cutler and Gross, which is is renowned for its originality and design flair.
These handcrafted D-frame shades update the classic tortoiseshell pattern by utilising a dash of blue in place of brown, with a gunmetal nose bridge bringing the contemporary edge.
Available at Mr Porter, priced £310.
Cutler And Gross D-Frame Acetate Sunglasses
2. Persol 714 Steve McQueen Sunglasses
Italian eyewear veteran Persol looks to a vintage style icon this season, producing a pair of suave shades inspired by actor Steve McQueen.
With a keyhole cut-out bridge and original arrowhead metal detailing, these foldable throwback sunglasses strike the perfect balance between rugged and retro.
Available at David Clulow, priced £275.
Persol 714 Steve McQueen Sunglasses
3. Oliver Peoples Benedict Gold Sunglasses
If there’s one thing Oliver Peoples does well, it’s aviator frames.
The US brand has its roots planted firmly in the 1980s, but brings the retro style bang up to date via the use of finely crafted materials and a minimalist design.
Available at Sunglasses Shop, priced £246.
Oliver Peoples Benedict Gold Sunglasses
4. Spitfire Round Sunglasses
Minimalism meets nineties meets futurism in these sharp shades by Spitfire.
Clean lines and a polished frame give these glasses a sense of elegance, while the pastel coloured lenses bring a playful touch.
Plus, at just £25, you can afford to experiment a little with your look.
Available at ASOS.
Spitfire Round Sunglasses
5. Ray-Ban 52 New Wayfarer
Ray-Ban’s classic Wayfarer design may be over 50 years old, but its new and improved models offer the contemporary update you need.
There are plenty of fresh shades to choose from, but we’re strong fans of this concrete grey hue, complete with translucent frame detailing.
Available at Sunglass Hut, priced £125.
Ray-Ban 52 New Wayfarer
6. Kite Nas Havana Gold Mirror Sunglasses
With just one store in London’s Westfield Stratford City, you’re bound to be one of the first people you know to wear a pair of sunglasses from this independent brand.
Kite is all about self-expression, which is evident in its innovative design approach and brave colour combinations.
We’ve got our eyes on its Nas frame, which comes complete with gold mirrored lenses.
Available at kitegb.com, priced £120.
Kite Nas Havana Gold Mirror Sunglasses
7. Eyevan 7285 Sunglasses
Japanese eyewear label Eyevan brings an Eastern edge to heritage designs, resulting in some seriously stylish sunglasses.
These gold frames are both delicate and impactful, while retaining an understated air of sophistication.
We’re pretty certain the compliments will just keep on coming when you’re spotted in these.
Available at Mr Porter, priced £320.
Eyevan 7285 Sunglasses
8. ASOS Metal Top Sunglasses
ASOS’ affordable eyewear range offers a wealth of modern designs at a great price point.
Just £15, these metal top sunglasses are versatile and perfect everyday wear – what’s more, it’s not going to sting too much if you sit on them or leave them somewhere by mistake.
Available at ASOS.
ASOS Metal Top Sunglasses
9. Garrett Leight California Optical Harding Sunglasses
Who doesn’t love a touch of Californian cool?
Garrett Leight combines true craftsmanship with a laid-back ethos, resulting in high quality glasses with a playful edge.
These champagne shades have us ready to hit the beach already.
Available at Garrett Leight and Mr Porter, priced £215.
Garrett Leight California Optical Harding Sunglasses
10. Jeepers Peepers Riley Round Sunglasses
Bringing us a new take on tortoiseshell frames, cult eyewear label Jeepers Peepers presents its Riley sunglasses in a mottled, translucent effect.
Not only do they make a stylish statement, but they’re also extremely lightweight, include full UV protection, and come complete with moulded nose pads and tapered arms for added comfort.
Available at ASOS, priced £18.
Jeepers Peepers Riley Round Sunglasses