More than just a functional accessory, sunglasses are a powerful fashion statement capable of elevating any outfit. In 2025, this sentiment is truer than ever, as high-end labels like Prada, Miu Miu, and Dior unveil a lineup of show-stopping eyewear. 2025’s Spring/Summer runway collections were a testament to the creativity of designers pushing the boundaries of eyewear fashion. From oversized visors to reimagined classics, the spotlight is firmly on bold, statement-making styles.
At Prada’s SS25 show, Miuccia Prada and Raf Simons sent models down the runway in oversized sunglasses that almost entirely obscured their faces. Bug-eyed pieces and headgear that doubled as sunnies were also on full display. Similarly, Canadian label Fellow Earthlings debuted shield-like sunnies with post-apocalyptic vibes. Meanwhile, Marni gave classic aviators and cat eyes a modern twist with exaggerated lines and avant-garde detailing. The message is clear: eyewear is bigger, bolder, and more fun than ever before.
Ready to refresh your sunglass collection? Here’s your ultimate guide to what’s hot and what’s not in 2025.
-
Hot: Oversized frames — Not: Tiny sunglasses
Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ll know that tiny sunglasses dominated from 2021 to 2024. They were championed by celebrities like Bella Hadid and Bad Bunny, the latter of whom famously wore minuscule shades to the 2024 Met Gala to align with the Gilded Glamour theme. Characterised by their small size and minimalist design, these shades polarised opinions. While they were undeniably trendy, many felt they didn’t offer enough practicality or face coverage. As fashion gravitates towards function and flair, tiny sunglasses are falling out of favour.
This year, the pendulum swings in the opposite direction with oversized frames taking centre stage. Larger-than-life shades, like the Dolce & Gabbana DG4385 or Tiffany & Co TF4189B, are making a splash. These bold accessories offer both maximum coverage and an undeniable wow factor. To hop on this trend, pair oversized sunglasses with minimalist outfits to let your eyewear do the talking. A sleek monochrome look with a tailored coat or jumpsuit ensures your shades remain the focal point.
-
Hot: Tinted lenses — Not: Multicoloured frames
Multicoloured frames had their moment in 2024, fuelled by playful designs from brands like Loewe. Their inflated, colourful shades became staples for celebrities like Emily Ratajkowski and Olivia Cooke. Even TV shows like The White Lotus inspired the colourful sunnies trend, with Portia’s youthful, loud eyewear reflecting a carefree aesthetic. However, as tastes evolve, bold frames are being swapped for the subtler charm of tinted lenses.
Tinted lenses bring a retro-modern vibe, combining playfulness with sophistication. High-profile celebrities such as Kendall Jenner have embraced this trend, rocking Bottega Veneta’s yellow-tinted Drop Aviator shades. Tinted sunglasses are versatile, adding warmth to any look while enhancing visual clarity. To mimic Jenner’s look, choose lens colours that complement your skin tone—yellow adds a sunny vibe, while rose tones lend a soft, romantic touch. Wear them with casual outfits, such as denim and a blazer, for a trendy yet relaxed look.
-
Hot: Staple square sunglasses — Not: Circular sunglasses
Round sunglasses have repeatedly cycled through fashion, famously worn by icons like John Lennon and Ozzy Osbourne. Rimless, round styles even made a brief comeback in 2024 but failed to gain long-term traction. For fashion lovers with a penchant for simpler eyewear styles, we have good news. This year, angular square silhouettes are stepping into the spotlight, delivering a more structured and universally flattering option.
Square sunglasses, like Ray-Ban’s iconic Wayfarers, continue to thrive due to their timeless appeal. If you’re on the hunt for a more affordable alternative, look no further than prescription sunglasses from Glasses Direct. The square Henry or Dax frames, in particular, offer a stylish combination of practicality and affordability. These frames’ sharp lines and versatility ensure they remain a must-have for 2025. You can wear square sunglasses with tailored pieces for a polished look, or pair them with distressed denim for effortless cool. Their clean lines make them ideal for both casual and formal settings.
-
Hot: Angular cat eye sunglasses — Not: Hexagon frames
Hexagon frames had their heyday in 2023, putting a geometric twist on traditional eyewear. Despite their unique appeal, they struggled to become a lasting trend due to their niche aesthetic. As geometric shapes take a backseat, angular cat eye sunglasses are rising in popularity. Musician Brittany Howard, for one, proved on the cover of her 2024 album What Now, that angular sunnies are the perfect choice for simpler looks. Angular cat eyes channel vintage glamour with a modern edge, featuring sharp corners and exaggerated upsweeps.
Luxury brands like Saint Laurent and Miu Miu have unveiled versions that redefine this classic silhouette. These shades exude confidence and pair well with a variety of outfits. For a chic, retro vibe, wear angular cat eyes with a bold red lip and a tailored trench coat. These shades also pair effortlessly with eveningwear for added drama.
-
Hot: Futuristic aviators — Not: Heavily embellished frames
Embellished sunglasses, adorned with rhinestones and ornate details, captured attention in 2024. However, their over-the-top designs are now being replaced by sleeker, more streamlined styles. Futuristic aviators, characterised by reflective lenses and metallic finishes, are the new must-have.
As one can expect from the Gen Z-favourite brand, Miu Miu is ahead of the curve. For SS25, the fashion house featured bug-eyed aviators on the runway. These updated aviators take inspiration from science fiction and activewear, combining functionality with cutting-edge design. Aside from Miu Miu, you can look to brands like Oakley for sporty iterations or Prada for high-fashion versions with a utilitarian edge. To incorporate this eyewear style into your wardrobe, match futuristic aviators with athleisure or streetwear for a contemporary look. Think oversized bomber jackets, joggers, and sneakers to nail the vibe.
Sunglasses are evolving rapidly, with trends shifting from quirky minimalism to bold maximalism. In 2025, eyewear is about making a statement, whether through oversized frames, playful tinted lenses, or angular cat eyes. At the same time, timeless silhouettes like square sunglasses remain a staple. When refreshing your eyewear collection, consider your personal style and face shape. Choose pieces that not only align with trends but also complement your wardrobe. With the right pair, your sunglasses can become the ultimate accessory to elevate any look.
The post Sunglasses Trends to Watch: What’s Hot and What’s Not in 2025 appeared first on Our Culture.
