Words by Flora Macdonald Johnston
sUmMEr SuNgLaSSES To MaKe hEaDs TuRn
Your go-to-guide on how to shop sunglasses correctly
Is it just me, or is finding the perfect pair of sunglasses as difficult as attempting to walk up a mountain with weights attached to all four limbs? It feels like an impossible mission, with so much trying-on. However, as someone who has a penchant for sunnies (I admit, I have over 40 pairs), I consider myself a connoisseur on the subject. So, here is my how-to guide on shopping sunglasses for your face correctly, and, the best cult labels to know and love right now.
FOR STRONG JAWLINES AND RECTANGULAR-SHAPED FACES
Look no further than Dubai-based Karen Wazen, a designer and influencer who knows her stuff when it comes to fashion. Having modelled for the likes of Cavalli and collaborated with Fendi and Dior, she’s worn multitudes of shades, and thus, created her own. Wazen enjoys nostalgia, and many of her frames have a vintage feel and aesthetic like her Retro-XL round-framed style which need a strong jaw, or rectangular face shape to align. Plus, they come in multiple colourways.
Ciara Sunglasses
£115
Retro's Xl Sunglasses
£120
Devon Sunglasses
£120
Retro's Xl Sunglasses
£120
FOR ROUNDER-SHAPED FACES
You might think with rounder or more circular shaped faces that going for large sunglasses is not ideal, however, large sunglasses with powerful and angular frames are just the ticket for creating additional shape on the face, and for drawing the eye. When it comes to styling, be bold with colour and texture. For this, there’s no better than Viennese Robert La Roche. After the label bagan in 1973, they became a hit amongst Hollywood celebrities, and now have kept much of that 70s flair and vibe with thick frames and tortoiseshell patterns.
Moonstruck Sunglasses
£580
Chunky Sunglasses Chain
£150
Guardian Sunglasses
£580
Moonstruck Sunglasses
£580
FOR OVAL AND DIAMOND-SHAPED FACES
If you have a more pointed chin, or oval face, this means you can be a little more experimental when it comes to design, as round, flat brimmed, rectangular, oval and cat-eye will suit. French designer Emmanuelle Khan is then the optimal choice, thanks to her wide variety of shapes, which also come with an equal variety of moods and looks. Khan made a name for herself as a stylist and model - thanks to her use of distinctive and loud eyewear. Khan was a leading designer in the 60s New Wave movement in France – and this rebellious side has never changed.
Eclat Nacre Sunglasses
£335
Glossy Rouge Sunglasses
£335
Crystal Aubergine Sunglasses
£315
Monoi Sunglasses
£315