Match your sunglasses with your summer outfit
Sunglasses are an important accessory when it comes to protecting your eyes from the sun’s harmful UV (ultraviolet) rays. In fact, did you know your eyes are up to 10 times more sensitive to UV damage than our skin? Find out more about the damaging effects that UV rays have on your eye health. Whilst they serve a functional purpose, a good pair of sunglasses can be a statement accessory that can compliment your outfits. Matching sunglasses to your summer outfit is all about your style and personal expression. Keep reading for top tips on how to match your sunglasses with your summer outfit.
Think about your face shape
It’s good to think about your face shape when choosing your sunglasses to match your summer outfits. This is because certain styles are better suited to face shapes which can help to complement the overall look you want to achieve. Here is a quick guide:
• Oval face: Almost any style works well with this face shape
• Round face: Try angular or rectangular frames for contrast
• Square face: Try round or oval sunglasses to soften sharp features
• Heart-shaped face: Aviators or cat-eye frames help balance a wider forehead
This is just a quick guide. But if you’d like to read more about which frames work with certain face shapes, read our full advice page how to choose frames for your face shape,
Choosing sunglasses that compliment your outfit and personality
If your summer outfits reflect your personality, then it’s a good idea to ensure your sunglasses also express who you are to achieve a cohesive look.
Trendsetter
If you are someone who likes to redefine old concepts or create new ones to make a statement, you might enjoy an oversized or futuristic frame such as dramatic, oversized square or aviator frames. A trendsetter’s summer outfit might be bold, unique and fashion-forward. It may also incorporate trendy elements and unexpected details like oversized blazers, baggy fit jeans or statement footwear. Unconventional shapes like geometric, cat-eye with sharp angles, with futuristic wraparound styles work well with these styles. Think about using bold colours and patterns, as well as polarised or mirrored lenses in vibrant shades like pink, blue, orange or gradient lenses. You may want to explore designer brands like Gucci, Prada and Chloe if you’re looking for a high-fashion look.
The minimalist
If you are a minimalist and enjoy a neutral pallet for your summer outfits, then you might want to explore sleek, minimalist sunglasses in colours like brown, black or metallic. These colours pair well with neutral, clean-cut outfits as they tend to complement your overall style rather than become the main focus of it. Minimalist outfits tend to be effortlessly stylish, as well as avoiding excessive patterns and embellishments. They instead focus on simple pieces, in colours like black, white, beige, or grey, creating an understated look. When choosing your frames, look for clean lines, simple shapes such as round, square, geometric and hexagonal as well as soft details. You might also want to consider brown or amber lenses to complement warm-toned outfits. Nordic-inspired or ‘Scandinavian style’ eyewear is known for its sleek and minimalist looks. For further tips and advice on how to create your own understated look, read more about Nordic-inspired eyewear.
The classic chic look
A classic and chic outfit is known to be structured, elegant and timeless. Outfits can either be tailored or oversized, depending on the look you are going for. Examples of classic, chic outfits might include a white button-down shirt, tailored blazer, a simple dress in a neutral colour, well-fitted trousers, or dark-wash jeans. Timeless sunglass styles such as aviators and cat-eye frames work well with structured, elegant outfits. These can also compliment your summer workwear, and by opting for prescription sunglasses, you can ensure your pair of sunglasses serve as both functional and fashionable. You might also want to consider photochromic lenses, like these Light Reactive Lenses, that adapt to changing light conditions, as they can offer a high-fashion feel.
Bohemian summer outfits
Round vintage-inspired frames or tinted lenses can complement flowy bohemian outfits. If you tend to wear flowy fabrics such as maxi dresses and wide-leg trousers, as well as layered jewellery and embroidered details on your garments, then you might want to explore coloured lenses or, oversized frames for a retro feel. Lenses in shades of amber, rose or blue can make a playful combination.
The sporty look
Sporty outfits tend to be comfortable, functional and stylish. They typically include breathable fabrics such as leggings or joggers, a fitted tank or oversized hoodie, and sporty trainers. You may also incorporate accessories like baseball caps and crew socks with your outfits. If you spend your summer days in sportswear, then wraparound frames or polarised lenses provide both function and style. Wraparound sunglasses can help block any light that arrives at different angles. Originally made for athletes, they have been popularised by celebrities like Kanye West and Bella Hadid. They also tend to come in mirrored and colourful lenses, making them perfect for streetwear. This makes them both a fashionable and functional choice.
Polarised lenses tend to have a sleek, high-tech appearance giving off a confident and high-performance feel. They are a great option to help improve visibility as well as protect your eyes from harmful UV rays, as well as help reduce sun glare from reflective surfaces like water, making it easier to see details. These lenses are great for the outdoors and beach days to pair with your summer outfit. You might want to explore aviator styles for a fashionable look. Find out more about lens options here.
Co-ordinate your sunglasses with accessories
• Jewellery – if you like to wear jewellery with your summer outfits, why not coordinate your sunglasses with jewellery. For example, you could wear gold accessories with gold-rimmed frames, or silver pieces with silver frames. Discover our top tips on balancing jewellery & glasses to complement your unique style.
• Prescription sunglasses pair well with structured outfits for a polished summer outfit look. This makes it an ideal choice for summer workwear and business-casual clothes. You might want to opt for classic minimalistic sunglasses in black, brown, or tortoiseshell for easy pairing with any summer outfit.
• Handbags and belts – if you enjoy wearing handbags and belts, matching your sunglasses to them to add an extra touch of sophistication and cohesiveness to your look. Whether you want to match the colour, embellishments, material or finish, matching these details can help tie your outfit together.
Find out more about the top sunglasses colours to compliment your outfit and summer holidays for Spring/Summer 2025 here. If you need more help and advice on how to match your sunglasses with your summer outfit, book an appointment today.
