In the fast-paced world of fashion, luxury eyewear stands out as a dynamic domain where style and elegance meet playful experimentation. The global luxury eyewear market is valued at $40 billion (£32.7 billion) in 2023 and expected to reach $56 billion (£45.8 billion) by the end of 2033. Thanks to the increased use of smart devices and accessibility through online channels, luxury eyewear has become more attainable for many.
For many looking to get into luxury fashion, eyewear, along with cosmetics, is seen as a good gateway to big-name brands, especially those that offer other high-end luxury wear. This is one reason why the luxury eyeglasses market is expected to increase in value by such a large amount over the next ten years. Of course, luxury fashion should also be about the style points as much as the price tags. Below, we’ll look at four interesting high-end luxury eyewear trends to look out for in 2024.
Futuristic sunglasses
A bold intersection between athletic high-performance and edgy style, futuristic sunglasses are more than back in style. These sunglasses feature angular, bolder designs and silhouettes that are immediately eye-catching.
Eyewear brand Oakley comes to mind as one of the leading names in futuristic-looking shades, combining high-concept silhouettes such as the Kato and Sutro with strong frame and lens colours — perfect for use in and out of sports. As they are meant for both fashion and function, these sporty, futuristic frames are also typically made of highly durable material that works with sleek and aerodynamic designs.
3D printed eyewear
3D printing may not immediately evoke thoughts of luxury, but 3D printing allows for limited edition, personalised eyewear designs. By 3D printing eyewear, customers can have frames and silhouettes crafted according to precise measurements and style preferences.
The concept isn’t entirely new either. Luxury fashion brand Givenchy recently showcased their collection of 3D printed eyewear – dubbed the “GIV CUT” – featuring dramatic angles and extravagant volumes. The GIV CUT was first seen on singer Rosalía at the 2022 Met Gala, but as more luxury brands pick up on this trend, we can expect to see more variations of luxury frames and sunglasses in the near future.
Flat top frames
Flat top frames, or “top bar” sunglasses, are characterised by the distinctive straight, horizontal top bar running across the browline. This top bar acts as a bold accent to the overall look of the eyewear, perfectly mixing between vintage retro styles and stated modern designs.
As most high-end fashion trends habitually call on nostalgia, the renaissance of flat top frames will be a great call back to mid-century eyewear designs dictated by bold and geometric shapes – think iconic Buddy Holly silhouette, but with a high-end luxury twist. In contrast to futuristic, high-concept designs, flat top frames provide a held-back, minimalist concept while expressing chicness and elegance.
Sustainable luxury eyewear
Finally, another critical eyewear trend for 2024 will be sustainability. Over the past years, luxury clothing brands have adopted sustainable initiatives to reduce their environmental impact and set new, greener standards for the industry as a whole. The luxury eyewear industry is following suit.
Eyewear brands are innovating in this domain by picking up more eco-friendly materials used to manufacture their products. This includes using upcycled plastic and plant-based biodegradable acetate to create their glasses. Many brands also look to recycled metals such as aluminium and stainless steel to develop fashionable frames while minimising their environmental impact.
