47 best sunglasses for women to elevate every summer outfit this season
While the allure of sunglasses is resistant to even the most overcast of seasons, when the weather quite unexpectedly decides to play ball, the best sunglasses styles really come into their own. Sure, there's no guarantee the longer, lighter, warmer evenings we're experiencing of late may stick around – but the secondary perk of the arrival of the fair-weather season (following its mood-boosting impacts) is the the wardrobe update that it welcomes. Boots are banished in return of summer sandals, knitwear is switched for super strappy summer dresses and a pair of the best sunglasses are added to our handbag of ‘essentials’.
Whether you have one trusty pair of high-quality sunnies that's seen you through the last five summers or a drawer full of 20+ pairs of shades (guilty), it's never a bad time to peruse alternative options from the chicest retailers.
Which sunglass styles are the most on-trend this season? Extreme, 70s-inspired eyeglasses and bright pops of colour have re-appeared on the fashion world's radar (aided, at least in part, by the set's obsession with Daisy Jones & The Six) – while classic aviators at Ray-Bans have an accessible price tag and Saint Laurent-approved square sunglasses or Dior-esque cat eyes illustrate a desire for timeless shapes that stand the test of time.
How to choose the best sunglasses for you:
Once you've thought about brand and budget, your greatest consideration should be your face shape. As for which shape will be best for your face shape, opt for square sunnies if you have an oval face or round face (and oval, round or aviator sunnies if you have a square face. Cat-eye sunglasses are best for oblong and diamond face shapes, while D-frame sunglasses if you have a deeper forehead or heart-shaped face. Oversized frames, to be honest, are a classic shape that looks good on everyone.
The best sunglasses brands at a glance:
- Best overall: Le Specs
- Best high-street: COS
- Best designer: Saint Laurent Eyewear
- Most playful: Jacquemus
- Most iconic: Prada