Eyewear has been a timeless accessory for centuries, serving both functional and aesthetic purposes. A post by MyVision organization details that the evolution of glasses, from the round frames of the 1920s to the resurgence of aviators in the current era, reflects the mindset and expectations of a given era. They also state that glasses will undoubtedly remain at the forefront of fashion in the coming years. Despite the timelessness of eyewear, actual design trends come and go, making room for more timely and reflective styles. As such, below are a few sunglasses trends to look out for this year.
Retro style
According to customer engagement platform Emarsys, three out of five US consumers regularly purchase vintage items. As such, it can be expected that retro-style sunglasses will continue to be a staple in the fashion world this year. With their classic designs and effortlessly cool aesthetic, retro sunglasses often make use of timeless materials like metal and acetate. Unlike other trendy accessories that may seem dated, retro sunglasses have an enduring charm that never goes out of style. From Ray-Ban’s classic Aviators to Versace’s gold-gilded square frames, there is a retro style to suit everyone’s taste and personality.
Furthermore, the resurgence of retro sunglasses can be attributed to the growing interest in vintage fashion and nostalgia. Many fashion designers and influencers are revisiting the past for inspiration, and retro sunglasses are the perfect way to add a hint of old-school glamour to any outfit. Whether it’s the 1950s, 1960s, or 1970s, retro sunglasses reflect the fashion and cultural trends of the past, giving them a unique and romantic allure.
Clear frames
Thanks to processing advancements, manufacturing plastic has become much easier, resulting in more experimentation regarding clear-frame sunglasses. This, combined with the style’s versatility, makes it a trend to follow. Unlike traditional sunglasses with dark or colorful frames, clear-frame sunglasses can be paired with almost anything. Regardless of the desired look, there are many approaches in terms of how to style clear frame glasses. To illustrate, clear frames, such as the Michael Kors Captiva or Sunnies Studios June, can be paired with an all-black ensemble to add a touch of playfulness to an otherwise monochromatic look. Alternatively, they can be worn with bolder looks to anchor the outfit.
Another reason clear-frame sunglasses are becoming a trend to look forward to is their ability to complement a wide range of skin tones and face shapes. The transparent frames are subtle enough not to overpower the face or compete with the complexion, allowing the natural features to shine. This makes them a perfect choice for anyone looking for a timeless and flattering accessory.
Sustainable materials
A sustainability survey of consumers recently found that 70% consider how eco-friendly a brand or item is before making a purchase. This likely means eco-friendly eyewear is expected to be a huge trend this year. Eco-friendly eyewear is made from sustainable and renewable materials, such as Woodzee’s bamboo and wood sunglasses, making them a more environmentally friendly choice. Additionally, their manufacturing processes tend to be more sustainable, with many companies prioritizing low-waste production methods, energy-efficient manufacturing processes, and ethical labor practices.
Eco-friendly brand initiatives, such as tree planting or recycling programs, also drive the trend of eco-friendly sunglasses. By choosing eco-friendly sunglasses, consumers can feel good about their purchase, knowing they support companies committed to minimizing their environmental impact. As a result, eco-friendly sunglasses are becoming a sought-after fashion accessory for those who want to make a positive impact through their purchasing decisions.
Tech-integration
Given its many benefits, smart tech has naturally found its way into wearables. From smartwatches and smart headsets, the wearable smart tech market is so in demand that Grand View Research forecasts it will grow by over 14% until 2030. With this growth, smart tech is expected to see broader integration into eyewear.
With technological advancements, sunglasses are no longer just a fashion statement or a tool for protecting the eyes from the sun. They are now being designed to have various tech features that can enhance the overall user experience. From the Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses to the Huawei X Gentle Monster Eyewear, augmented and virtual reality capabilities are now being integrated into sunglasses. This allows users to overlay digital information onto their field of vision, opening up a world of possibilities for things like navigation, communication, and entertainment.
