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The 17 Best Sunglasses for Women, According to Fashion Editors and Stylists

We've found options for every style, size and price you need.

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best sunglasses for women

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Serving both function and fashion, sunglasses never go out of season. Whether overcast or sunny out, they can shade your eyes from harsh brightness while doing so in style. But let's be honest: Sunglasses for women are a dime a dozen. Styles run the gamut from classic wayfarers to tiny shades. That's why we tapped fashion stylists and our staffers — whose jobs are to keep a finger on the pulse of current trends — to find the best sunglasses for women.

Not sure which frame style works best with your face shape? Heed advice from fashion stylist Catherine Bibeau who gave us a rundown. For heart-shaped types, cat-eye glasses add symmetrical balance. Square-shaped faces can look for glasses that soften — so smooth, rounded edges. To that end, angular styles like rectangular or square frames complement a round face. Aviators and rounded sunnies suit smaller faces. "They are fashionable and timeless pieces made in different variations and sizes that can easily suit small faces for the perfect fit," said Bibeau.

Before you buy, you'll need to ensure the glasses offer 100% or UV400 protection, meaning the lenses will block 100% of the sun's harmful UVA and UVB radiation. Seasons and temperatures aside, sunglasses are important year-round. "UV rays can still reach your eyes on overcast days, so sunglasses can help protect your eyes even when it's cloudy," said certified optician Chloe Tauaefa, ABOC, of All About Vision. You may also see some lenses have polarization, which is a film that will reduce the glare of surfaces — a particularly good feature when driving.

From Maui Jim to Le Specs, find the best sunglasses for women in 2024 recommended by our in-house staffers, ahead. Accessorize with the best jewelry and our favorite crossbody bags while you're at it.

1
Best Overall Sunglasses

Ray-Ban Mirrored Aviator Sunglasses

Mirrored Aviator Sunglasses

Nothing gets more classic than a pair of Ray-Bans — a statement echoed by staffers, opticians and over 3,000 five-star Amazon reviewers. Its iconic Aviator comes in a slew of colors and three lens sizes. "The look and quality are like no other pair I have picked up," said Senior Chemist Danusia Wnek. "I always seem to gravitate to these pairs ... I like the gold frame with the black lenses, but they have so many different styles." Given the slim arms and nose pieces, Wnek adds that the case is nice for safekeeping.

Size: 55mm, 58mm or 62mm lens width | UV Protection: Yes | Polarized: No

2
Best Value Sunglasses

SOJOS Classic Square Polarized Sunglasses

On Sale
Classic Square Polarized Sunglasses
Now 36% Off
Credit: SOJOS

Our staffers found SOJOS sunglasses on a whim a couple of years ago and never looked back. With more than 28,000 Amazon reviews, it seems like shoppers agree, flocking to the brand's vast selection at a budget price — this pair costs just $12 (!). "I get so many compliments when I wear [mine], and the key thing for me is the polarized lenses!" said Editorial Assistant Adrianna Freedman. "I plan to buy more in the future."

Size: 53mm lens width | UV Protection: Yes | Polarized: Yes

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3
Best Oversized Sunglasses

QUAY Australia 52mm Gradient Flat Top Sunglasses

52mm Gradient Flat Top Sunglasses

Australian-owned Quay has got all your oversized sunglass needs covered. The brand collaborated with Chrissy Teigen to create these lightweight flat-top sunnies — perfect for nailing that West Hollywood vibe. A GH editor also loves the After Hours pair that drives home the dramatics. These particular frames fit big and wide, so narrow face types may want to opt for something smaller.

Size: 52mm lens width | UV Protection: Yes | Polarized: No

4
Best Oval Sunglasses

Le Specs Women's OUTTA LOVE Sunglasses

Women's OUTTA LOVE Sunglasses
Credit: Le Specs

C'est chic! Le Specs makes everything from tiny sunnies to round frames so you can always look effortlessly on-trend. One of our editor's favorite pairs is the oval-shaped Outta Love. "It's giving '90s Monica Geller and matches everyday outfit combos," she said. "The included blue pouch also stashes nicely in a purse or a tote." The only caveat? It favors style over function, not offering much shade from the sun.

Size: 51mm lens width | UV Protection: Yes | Polarized: No

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5
Best Prescription Sunglasses

Warby Parker Beale Sunglasses

Beale Sunglasses
Credit: Warby Parker

No need to put contacts in just to wear sunglasses. Rated as one of our favorite places to buy eyeglass frames, Warby Parker's prescription sunglass lineup likewise thrills our editors. The best-selling Beale sunglasses come in four sharp-looking, scratch-resistant styles. From there, customize with vision and lens types, including non-prescription, single-vision, progressives and readers. Just note that progressive lenses can cost upward of $395.

Size: 51mm lens width | UV Protection: Yes | Polarized: No

6
Best Sunglasses on Amazon

BUTABY Rectangle Sunglasses

Rectangle Sunglasses

Purchased by more than 18,000 shoppers, these shades have become the unofficial sunglasses of Amazon. The two-pack of rectangular frames come in a myriad of color pairings, including tortoiseshell and clear pink. Just $15, these sunglasses perfectly suit those who are more careless with their accessories. As for fit, online shoppers with narrow faces noticed it ran wide.

Size: 52mm lens width | UV Protection: Yes | Polarized: No

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7
Best Black Sunglasses

Blenders Eyewear Grove Polarized Sunglasses

Grove Polarized Sunglasses

Any sunglass wearer needs a staple black pair. What's more, former royal Meghan Markle sported these slightly oversized shades from Blenders on a recent skiing trip. They tout both UV protection and polarized lenses for optimal eye protection. "I love how they have a lot of selections that fit all types of face shapes," said Freedman. While impressed by the polarization, one shopper wishes it were a smidge darker for a full black-out shade.

Size: 53mm lens width | UV Protection: Yes | Polarized: Yes

8
Best Sunglasses for the Beach

Costa Del Mar Aleta

Aleta

A popular choice among fishing and water sport enthusiasts, Costa Del Mar offers a full range of polarized sunglasses, said Tauaefa. Pick between glass and polycarbonate polarization, which helps make objects crisper and brighter even in harsh sun. "It feels like you can see through the ocean. [It] makes the color more transparent and beautiful," said Media & Tech Reviews Analyst Olivia Lipski. Though, these lack nose pad grips, meaning they can slide down when sweating.

Size: 135mm frame width in total | UV Protection: Yes | Polarized: Yes

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9
Best Aviator Sunglasses

Randolph USA 23K Gold Classic Aviator Sunglasses

23K Gold Classic Aviator Sunglasses
Credit: Randolph USA

Priding themselves on a curated lineup of hand-crafted frames, Randolph, the family-owned business, has been a prime aviator supplier for the US military since the '80s. Their unique bayonet temple tips were designed for comfort under headgear — though many pairs also come in standard arm iterations. Timeless styles like the Classic Aviator are outfitted in silver, gold and matte black hardware. Considering the craftsmanship and use of real gold, these are a worthy spend.

Size: 55mm frame width | UV Protection: Yes | Polarized: No, but options available

10
Best Cat-Eye Sunglasses

J.Crew Bungalow cat eye sunglasses

Bungalow cat eye sunglasses
Now 50% Off
Credit: J. Crew

Channel your inner Breakfast at Tiffany's with these classic cat-eye frames. The brand's top-rated sunnies come in fun tortoiseshell, chic black and vintage white. Updates Editor Elizabeth Berry has owned her pair for three years. "I have four other sunglasses to choose from, but these are the ones I always want to wear," she said. "J.Crew has a stellar selection of different sunglass shapes, styles and vibes for every aesthetic."

Size: Not listed | UV Protection: Yes | Polarized: No

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11
Best Polarized Sunglasses

Maui Jim Punchbowl Polarized Rectangular Sunglasses

Punchbowl Polarized Rectangular Sunglasses

Launched in 1980, Maui Jim has long been famed for their patented polarized lenses, "which provide wearers with excellent glare reduction and optimal UV protection," said Tauaefa. Textiles Product Analyst Grace Wu rated them as one of the best: "The craftsmanship and attention to detail is superior to more expensive pairs I own." Seconding that, a GH editor added, "My mom who lives in Florida has sworn by Maui Jim for years and years. She wears this pair 24/7 and finds them worth the investment." While durable and sturdy, its lack of nose grips means it may leave slight indents on your nose with long wear.

Size: 54mm lens width | UV Protection: Yes | Polarized: Yes

12
Best Sunglasses for Oval Faces

FREYRS Hayden Sunglasses

Hayden Sunglasses
Credit: FREYRS

A harmonious matrimony between cat-eyed and rectangular frames, these sunglasses hail from FREYRS, a brand beloved by celebrities like Olivia Wilde and Jennifer Lawrence. One GH editor with an oval face shape found these complemented her features well. "They fit me nicely, without sliding down my nose or feeling too snug on my ears," she said. We appreciate the sturdy yet lightweight frame. Our only wish? The lense tint could be a smidge darker for better shading.

Size: 140mm lens width | UV Protection: Yes | Polarized: No

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13
Best Sunglasses for Running

Oakley OO9191 Unstoppable Rectangular Sunglasses

OO9191 Unstoppable Rectangular Sunglasses
Credit: Oakley

The official sunglass brand of the NFL, Oakley is a leading eyewear brand in sports. Brown-tinted lenses like these enhance contrast and depth perception, making them ideal for outdoor activities like fishing or golfing, Tauaefa said. One reviewer who runs marathons appreciates that these have wrap-around coverage and don't steam up. Another added that they don't slip while running and hiking. Pro tip: You might want to buy a hard case to store these since they only come with a soft sleeve.

Size: 65mm lens width | UV Protection: Yes | Polarized: Yes

14
Best Luxury Sunglasses

Milaner The Monica Sunglasses

The Monica Sunglasses
Now 21% Off
Credit: Milaner

Started by a team of Italian women, Milaner has been a premier destination for luxury accessories. Each sunglass pair is made to order and designed exclusively by Italian and French artisans. Living up to its European roots, The Monica Sunglasses adopt a cat-eyed silhouette made from sturdy acetate, per one GH editor. We love the flair it adds to outfits. It does, however, run snug, so those with small faces may find it a better fit than others.

Size: 50mm lens width | UV Protection: Yes | Polarized: No

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15
Most Trendy Sunglasses

INDY Alfie

Alfie

Add some personality to 'fits thanks to these sunglasses with colored lenses. "These are super trendy and also super flattering thanks to the aviator style, said Deputy Editor Jessica Teich, who also owns the brand's Uptown style. "Both are scratch-resistant and durable, in my experience." The lenses tout UV400 protection, but given the orange tint, you may still squint in direct sunlight.

Size: 60mm lens width | UV Protection: Yes | Polarized: No

16
Best Designer Sunglasses

Michael Kors Savannah Glasses

Savannah Glasses
Credit: Michael Kors

Renowned for designer handbags and other accessories, Michael Kors makes some of the most stylish sunglasses. You can add an optical prescription to these full-rimmed sunglasses, too, meaning you can leave your contacts at home! Plenty of satisfied shoppers love this pair, with one writing: "I love these sunglasses. They are incredibly well made with a sturdy feel."

Size: 141mm overall lens width | UV Protection: Yes | Polarized: No

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17
Best Round Sunglasses

Ray-Ban Round Metal Sunglasses

Round Metal Sunglasses

Founded in 1937, Ray-Ban is a renowned eyewear brand known for its classic designs, including the iconic Aviator and Wayfarer sunglasses seen frequently in movies and TV. These meld the brand's classic wire frames with a vintage-inspired round shape. Per Bibeu's styling advice, these match well with square face shapes. Folks online noted that the frames can be rather delicate so treat with care and store in a case.

Size: 47mm, 50mm or 53mm lens width | UV Protection: Yes | Polarized: No

Headshot of Michelle Manetti
Michelle Manetti
Group Digital Content Director


Michelle is the digital content director of the Hearst Lifestyle Group, where she helps oversee multiple brand's strategy efforts on digital. Previously, she was the deputy editor and managing digital editor for Good Housekeeping. She has over 10 years of experience writing and editing lifestyle content.

Headshot of Jacqueline Saguin

Jacqueline (she/her) was a commerce editor for Good Housekeeping from 2021 to 2024. Prior to joining GH, she was a style and beauty reviews fellow at Insider, testing viral trends, reviewing sustainable brands and more. She's a graduate of the University of Florida's School of Journalism, with a specialty in magazines and mass communication.

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