Some people would argue that it’s shoes or handbags that “make” an outfit, but I’d say there’s nothing quite as impactful when you’re out and about as a pair of great sunglasses. Like a cute puppy or intriguing perfume, you will get asked about them. Sunglasses can show confidence if you’re wearing a bold pair. They can indicate in-the-know status if you’ve chosen a niche brand. No other accessory holds the mystical cool-factor that comes with covering one’s eyes/hangover/real feelings [delete as appropriate]. And they can demonstrate the power of a cult classic—choose the right frames for your face and you have a buddy for life (so long as you don’t sit on them). I also think the right shades can elevate and improve any given outfit, especially the kind of looks we’re prone to leaning on right now. In essence, anything relatively low-key or lazy can be made all the more considered with the addition of some wonderful sunglasses.
So that’s why the newly-arrived sunglasses trends for 2021 are so interesting. They really run the gamut: there are styles for the brave (basically anything a pop star would have worn in the ’90s or ’00s—think Aaliyah, JLo or Eve are your icons here) but you’ll also find just as many ultra-classic options that will never let you down, no matter the season or year you find yourself wearing them. Keep scrolling to see the sunglasses trends I’ve noticed, shop the best options and let your new pair do all the talking.
