The best statement sunnies

No one needs another pair of black sunglasses, according to our fashion director

By Amanda MarcantonioPublished: 21 August 2024

If you’re anything like me, your sunglasses ‘wardrobe’ will consist of black, black and more black. Yes, black sunnies go with everything and look super-chic, but they’re not necessarily the most fun or particularly adventurous. After seeing Princess Anne at the Paris Olympics wearing cool, reflective, wraparound shades with her formal attire, I feel inspired to step out of my eyewear comfort zone and try something a little different. Let’s face it, who needs another pair of black sunnies? I certainly don’t.

A good pair of sunglasses protects our eyes from UVA and UVB rays, but we all know they’re so much more than that. As well as disguising a lack of make-up and tired eyes when you don’t feel up to facing the world, they’re one of those accessories that quietly adds a little relevance to your look, without appearing too try-hard or fashion-victim. If, like me, you’re thinking of upping your sunglasses game, try venturing into bold new territory. White or colourful frames feel energetic and modern, and will give an unexpected sporty twist to classic outfits, injecting a little fun without stepping into novelty territory.

My top tip for statement shades? I believe the best thing to do is to try loads on until you find what suits. I was told by eyewear designer Tom Davies that when choosing your most flattering pair, look to the shape of your eyebrows: the frame should sit in line with them. If you have quite rounded, arched eyebrows, a rounder frame will suit you. If your eyebrows are very straight (almost horizontal), squarer frames will look great. Tom also recommended looking to your own eye colour for inspiration. If you have blue eyes, a blue frame will look amazing. If you have green eyes, yes, you’ve guessed it, green frames look fab.

So, if you’ve been wearing the same old shades for many summers and you’d like to add a standout style to your classic mix, be bold, be brave and look beyond basic black. Don’t worry, you won’t look like Elton John, I promise.