Art of Style

The Ultimate Sunglasses Guide

Coveting cat-eye shades this season? Look to stylist and editor Christine Centenera (far left) for a modern take on a retro classic

It goes without saying that a great pair of sunglasses is a wardrobe essential and, thanks to the return of some iconic retro styles, their closet currency has only increased over the past few years. So, whether you prefer ’90s-style oval lenses, directional cat-eye designs or oversized shades, here’s our edit of the best sunnies to shop now…

Fashion

17 Jul '23

Cat-eye

A perennial favorite, this classic yet contemporary style helps to highlight the cheekbones and can enliven even the most understated outfit. Go bold with exaggerated, graphic wing-shaped frames by Bottega Veneta Eyewear, which are available only at NET-A-PORTER, while Dior Eyewear’s directional designs will add an air of refinement. Alternatively, opt for a minimal approach with a pair from eyewear brand Oliver Peoples’ collaboration with New York womenswear label Khaite , which is exclusive to NET-A-PORTER. Take your cue from the likes of stylist and editor Christine Centenera and let your cat-eye sunglasses add an extra twist to any look.

Hailey Bieber adds a pleasing pop of color with a playful pair of vibrant green shades

Colorful frames

Whether you’re a fan of understated outfits or prefer a statement look, no capsule is complete without a pair of colorful sunglasses. Take note from Hailey Bieber and enliven a leather jacket and simple white tee with vibrant sunnies – we love Bottega Veneta Eyewear’s sportswear-inspired style in the brand’s signature shade of green. If pretty pastels are more your thing, Linda Farrow’s collaboration with Italian jeweler Bea Bongiasca has some classic rectangular frames in lilac, orange and pink, with golden, jewelry-inspired swirls snaking up the arms; while Le Specs has released Bella Hadid’s favorite style, the oval-framed ‘Outta Love’, in a buttercup yellow – both are exclusive to NET-A-PORTER. For something more irreverent, try Loewe’s flame-inspired pair, which nods to the brand’s playful, avant-garde aesthetic. Match the glossy red frames to bright knitwear and balance the bold hues with cool blue denim .

Industry influencers, including Grece Ghanem (left) and Bella Hadid (center), are favoring elongated oval designs

Oval

Undeniably classic, oval and spherical shapes are the fail-safe choice for a silhouette that will endure beyond the SS23 season, as personal trainer and content creator Grece Ghanem knows all too well. Elegant, elongated styles from Loewe Eyewear and Celine Eyewear will pair well with anything, while Jean Paul Gaultier’s rose-gold shades come with industrial-inspired springs along the arms and are available exclusively at NET-A-PORTER.

Square shades are sleek and chic and work with any look, from a crisp white tee to a casual tank top – or a body-hugging mini dress, as sported here by Kendall Jenner

Square

Square-framed sunglasses have come to the accessory fore as a must-wear silhouette for both on- and off-duty style, with Gucci Eyewear’s tortoiseshell design guaranteed to be worn on repeat. Balenciaga’s ‘Dynasty BB’ styles are a fashion-girl favorite, while Oliver Peoples’ ‘Davri’ come with saffron-tinted lenses for a cool retro feel. These polished frames will look just as good with a casual tank top as they will with crisp tailoring – or take inspiration from Kendall Jenner and style with a mini dress and leather shoulder bag.

Oversized

This season, retro styles are experiencing a resurgence, and anyone in the habit of hitting the snooze button once, twice or more each morning will be well acquainted with the vital role a pair of oversized glasses can play in your life – particularly when it comes to off-duty days. Chloé Eyewear + NET SUSTAIN’s Jackie O-inspired ‘Gayia’ style will add glamour to every outfit. Better still, it is available only at NET-A-PORTER, and the tortoiseshell frames are mindfully crafted from pre-consumer recycled acetate.

Pernille Teisbaek goes ‘Jackie O’ at Loewe spring/summer 2023

Camille Charriere (center) is one of many fashion insiders with a penchant for aviators

Aviator

First debuted in the 1930s, this classic style has been a closet mainstay ever since. However, while this timeless shape is never out of style, in recent seasons it has experienced something of a renaissance, with the introduction of colorful lenses that feel fresh and fun. Enter Prada Eyewear’s ‘D-Frame’ brown-lensed golden aviators for a nod to ’70s cool. Alternatively, Saint Laurent’s black smoky-lensed aviators will add a rock ’n’ roll insouciance to any outfit.

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