The weather is warming up, and most of us are heading to the beach, which means it’s time to talk sunglasses. Sure, you’ve got your wide-brim hat to defend against the rays, sunblock to keep your skin protected, and a chic cover-up to cover all your bases—but what about your eyes? In order to make sure you shield your peepers from the menacing sun, a pair of sunglasses is a must-have essential. Fortunate for you, there are hundreds of pairs out there making headlines this summer. Of course, finding the right brand that provides a pair of shades that checks all the boxes: chic, durable, and have that “cool” factor can be challenging. We’ve helped narrow it down to the top eight sunglasses brands that will have you looking stylish all summer long.
Let’s start off with the classics; everyone from rock stars, athletes, to the Kardashians have all been photographed rocking a pair of Ray-Bans. There isn’t much that can be said about a pair of Ray-Bans that hasn’t already been said. It is no question that the Wayfarers have been their most successful design since it was introduced in 1952. However, Ray-Ban also provides a lot of home-run silhouettes such as the: Aviators, Clubmasters, Erika, and the Izzy silhouette. Any one of these stone-cold pairs will surely give you that added burst of coolness.
Started with one objective: to offer designer eyewear at a revolutionary price. Warby Parker provides hipster bravura for a college student budget. For the ladies, they provide the Phipps, which provide you with a round silhouette that is nostalgic of the 70s. If you’re not a fan of the round shape, you can be a bit more bold and go for the Laurel 16 or the Pipers in the stylish cat eye silhouette. For men, they provide trendy designs such as the: Haskell, Lowry, Downing, and the Madison.
Hedi Slimane may have left Saint Laurent, but luckily his fashion sensibility still remains among Saint Laurent’s most recent sunglasses collection. Known for offering haute couture items, Saint Laurent sunglasses provide style, durability, and glamour. Of course, Saint Laurent sunglasses will be a bit more of a splurge as opposed to other brands; however, they are without a doubt worth the investment. And let’s face it; you can never have too much Saint Laurent.
Without a doubt, ladies love themselves a pair of uber big sunglasses; it’s a must-have for every fashionista. If you are looking for a big pair of shades that will be a fashion statement all summer long, look no further than a pair of Karen Walker sunglasses. Paying homage to the past, Karen Walker provides 60s and 70s Hollywood glamour that will have you looking fabulous driving along the coast.
Looking for a pair of shades that Gigi Hadid, Vanessa Hudgens, and Ashley Benson are all raving about? Then Quay is the answer. The trendy designs provide style, pops of color, and affordability. Yes, you heard right; you can rock the pair that all your favorite starlets are wearing without breaking the bank. Most of their sunglasses range between $45-$60 making them highly affordable. I would recommend you get the Likewow, Mygirl, and/or a pair of the Breath of Life. You know what? At these prices, why settle for one design when you can splurge and buy all three pairs.
Want a pair that is the best of both worlds? Then Dior is the way to go. Perfect for being poolside, but also great for an afternoon in the sun, Dior provides the superchic sensibility you were looking for in an elegant French design. Fortunately, they have released a variety of new styles to accompany their spring/summer 2016 collection. The ‘So Real’ silhouette is this season’s hottest style. Socialites, celebrities, and models have all been photographed rocking these stunners. There are a few other pairs that deserve recognition, such as the ‘Sideral’ and the ‘Glisten 1’ for all the cat eye design lovers.
If your goal is to prove that statement-making shades are always a good idea, then investing in some Miu Miu sunglasses is a must-do. As a result of their need to distinguish themselves from their parent company Prada, Miu Miu has become a radical innovator in the bold sunglasses industry. And of course since Miuccia’s line Miu Miu is meant to reflect her own tastes, such as her love for bright colors and bold prints, it is not surprising that the sunglasses are bold and quirky, but still fashionable. Of course, they may be a little to ‘in-your face’ for the average sunglasses wearer, but if you’re looking for a pair that are fun and daring, you can not go wrong with a pair of Miu Miu’s.
Last, but no stranger to the limelight, we have Céline. Known for their high-end French quality, these glittering masterpieces will have you looking vogue all summer long. The mix of retro and modern inspirations provides that hint of shabby chic, and sophistication that all outfits need. No matter what your style is, Céline has the fit that will accentuate your outfit of the day.
Which of these brands is your favorite? Any other brands that you would recommend? Tell me in the comments below.
Tags: Celine, Darby Parker, Dior, Karen Walker, Miu Miu, Quay, Ray Ban, Saint Laurent, summer, sunglasses, trends