From Audrey Hepburn’s stylish shades in Breakfast at Tiffany’s, to the classic Ray-Ban aviators that Tom Cruise wore in the box-office smash Top Gun, or to the iconic musician Elton John’s decades of funky lenses – sunglasses can certainly provide both function and fashion.

Trends for this year are varied – so there are some great options to meet anyone’s preference and style aesthetic. From the catwalk to the sidewalk, the sunglass trends of fashion week in New York City and Paris proves that stylish shades are here to stay.

Some of the most in demand and trendy options include a variety of materials, colours, and models. We took a deep dive to give you some of the best sunglasses this season.

Rectangular frames:

The fashion influences of the 1990s are making a comeback with funky rectangular sunglasses.  Well suited for a wide variety of faces, especially given that they create more angles for oval or round-face shapes. Luxury brands such as Prada have a wide variety of rectangular lenses this year, with an assortment of frame sizes, making it even more accessible if you’re looking to try something new and step out of your comfort zone!

Aviator Sunglasses:

Initially created for pilots (hence the aviator name), and a popular practical option for those flying aircraft during World War II, aviator shades continue to have staying power. As seen in collections from Versace x Dua Lipa, and Saint Laurent, there are variations on colours, chrome lenses, and frame materials to choose from.

Cat Eye:

Here’s a throwback to the stylish 1960s: cat eye sunglasses. Although these have stayed on trend over the years, they are seeing a resurgence this year. Clearly displayed in Givenchy and Max Mara’s collections, they can be universally flattering. With many options to choose from regarding size and shape, there’s many great possibilities to find cat eye shades that suit your own personal style.

Oval:

For another unique and pleasing shape, try oval frames that were seen all over the catwalk this year. Brands such as Fendi and Jean Paul Gaultier joined the oval trend with both bold and subtle options. With various sizes and colours, this is a style that can fit the most adventurous fashionista or the most curious beginner looking to add a new sunglasses choice to their accessories.

Round, circular frames:

Instead of opting in to the oval trend, Chanel and Giorgio Armani decided on very round frames instead. Best suited for those who have more square or heart shaped faces, this is a great unique option to change up your eyewear accessories, while still making a solid fashion statement.

Tinted and colourful lenses:

Versace and Gucci showcased another top trend with tinted lenses and the option of bright hues. If you’re looking to go with colourful choices and change things up with a pop of colour in your lenses, this just might be the style for you.

Bold and oversized frames:

Big and bold frames can be a solid fashion statement when it comes to picking a trendy style that works for you. Often with large plastic frames (and different colour palettes to choose from), there’s bound to be sunglasses that fit your own preferences. Not only is it another throwback to the late 1990s and early 2000s trends, but these offer glamorous options for today.

Metallic:

Top fashion houses, Balenciaga, Diesel, as well as Givenchy, opted for metallic and futuristic looking sunglasses. With high chrome reflective lenses and various frame colours to choose from, if a combination of futuristic and chic is more your look – this style is likely for you!

Sporty:

If a more sporty look is what you are after, there is no shortage of sunglass possibilities available this year. Athletic, wrap-around styles that we sometimes associate with runners and cyclists, was in full force on the runways this season as a top fashion trend. Regardless if you’re picking classic monochromatic colours to something that is more mirrored, reflective and bright, there are shades in this style that offer a funky, fashionable look that can be styled in many different ways.

From classic options, to 1990s and early 2000s throwbacks or daring bold statement pieces, there are a wide variety of luxury style sunglasses on the market. Whether you are looking for trendy options for a day at the beach, cocktails on a patio or exploring your next travel destination, the choices are as unique and expressive as you are.

Stephanie Hawkins | Contributing Writer