The Best Sunglasses
A great pair of sunglasses not only protects your eyes but also acts as the perfect accessory to complete your outfit. Sunglasses add an undeniable cool factor when you’re out and about, and polarized and UV-blocking lenses help keep your eyes safe from the sun. But picking the perfect pair of sunglasses is no day at the beach, so we’ve rounded up the best options for every occasion. While hunting for sunglasses that could make the cut, we looked for flattering frames that are easy to wear and lenses that offer great protection from bright sunlight. Our overall favorite was the pair of semi-rimless polarized sunglasses from Kaliyadi, because they’re a classic design that looks great on everyone. We also love that the lenses are finished with a coating that blocks harmful UV rays. If you’re looking for a pair that’s a bit trendier, though, we'd point you to the retro rectangle sunglasses from Butaby. The chunky-colored frames are eye-catching and stylish, and the lenses are polarized, too. Keep reading to learn more about our picks for the best sunglasses available.
Kaliyadi Semi-Rimless Polarized Sunglasses
Fashion staple
Semi-rimless frames are a classic shape that’s flattering on everyone, and these versatile sunglasses pair well with a variety of outfits. Whether you’re heading to a formal event or hitting the beach, these chic glasses will protect your eyes in style. The lenses are polarized to reduce glare, and they also block the harmful UV rays that can reduce your eyesight over time.
Pros:
- The frames are durable but still very lightweight, which makes them comfortable to wear for long periods.
- These glasses are excellent at reducing glare, which makes them great for driving.
Cons:
- Although these glasses are labeled as unisex, they run slightly small. They should fit most women, but if you have a large head, they might be a bit tight.
Aieyezo Vintage Metal Frame Sunglasses
Channel your favorite superhero with these oversized Spiderman-inspired sunglasses. The large frames are only lightly tinted, which makes it super easy to see while wearing them. Don’t let the clarity fool you, though — these glasses are fully polarized and have UV400 protection. They block 99% of reflected light, so they’re a great choice for driving, boating, and more.
Pros:
- The metal temples are very thin, so they’re comfortable over your ears and won’t dig into your skin.
- We like that the nose pieces are adjustable because you can change the fit so that the glasses won’t slide off your nose.
Cons:
- Because the lenses are large and flat, you can sometimes see reflections in them, which could interfere with clarity.
Sungait Vintage Round Sunglasses
Movie star
If you’re looking for a high-fashion look without the high price tag, these vintage-inspired sunglasses can’t be beaten. The round lenses and keyhole nose bridge are cute details that add to their charm, and the frames are available in several different colors. Some models are polarized while others aren’t, so you can choose whichever you prefer.
Pros:
- We appreciate a pair of sunglasses that doesn’t need to be babied, so it’s worth noting that these frames are quite durable.
- The lenses are strong and scratch-proof, so they’ll survive being tossed in your purse or being accidentally dropped.
Cons:
- The nose piece isn’t adjustable, so the glasses might slide a bit if the bridge of your nose is narrow.
Livhò Polarized Aviator Sunglasses
Adventure awaits
Aviator sunglasses are a great choice if you’re looking for something polished and professional, but they also fit right in at the beach or the pool. The HD polarized lenses dramatically reduce glare in sunlight, so you’ll be able to see clearly even on very bright days. The lightweight frames are thin and comfortable, and the wide variety of colors means that you can choose the perfect style for every situation.
Pros:
- Considering the price, we find the build quality of these sunglasses to be pretty impressive.
- We love the size of these sunglasses. They’re large enough to fully cover your eyes, but not oversized or so big that they overwhelm your face.
Cons:
- The frames are a bit narrow, so these sunglasses might be tight if you have a wide face.
Butaby Retro Rectangle Sunglasses
I've been framed
If you want to accessorize in style, look no further than these ’90s-inspired sunglasses. The rectangular frames are trendy and flattering, and they look great with both casual and dressy outfits. Because the lenses are finished with a clear UV-blocking coating, they protect your eyes from harsh rays while still allowing you to see in true colors.
Pros:
- Although the frames are narrow, they’re wide enough to fully cover your eyes and they don’t look too small.
- The frames are made from thick composite plastic, so they feel nice and strong instead of flimsy.
Cons:
- These sunglasses have UV protection but they’re not polarized, so they don’t really reduce glare.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean when glasses are polarized?
Lenses on polarized glasses are coated with a thin chemical film that not only reduces the intensity of sunlight but also reduces shimmer and glare when you’re around water, snow, or glass. This helps reduce eye strain from bright light and means that you can see colors and contours more clearly. However, polarized glasses can sometimes react negatively with certain windshield tints, so non-polarized glasses may be a better choice if you just want to reduce glare while driving.
Which style of sunglasses will be most flattering on me?
In general, the best frame shapes should contrast with the shape of your face. Wide, rectangular frames look great on round faces, while round or oval frames are perfect for those of us with square or heart-shaped faces. Most styles are well-suited for oval faces, but make sure the frames aren’t so big that they overwhelm your face. Oversized styles are super flattering if you have a long face, but if you have a round or oval face shape, they can take up too much space.
About the Author
Why Trust Us
Since 2001, our experts at TheFashionSpot have been providing millions of people with our take on the latest trends. TheFashionSpot is constantly looking for the hottest styles in clothing and accessories for people of all body types. Our team knows that beauty starts well before the closet, so we are also dedicated to finding the best products for your skin and hair.