As the crisp autumn air descends, it’s time to refresh your wardrobe and trade in the essentials for chic autumn accessories that are guaranteed to see you through the season in style. Surprisingly, amongst the biggest must-have accessories of the season are sunglasses, which are no longer just for the long, sunny days of summer or balmy holidays abroad and instead are a major transitional necessity that will add instant glamour and sophistication to any autumnal outfit.
While many people associate sunglasses with the harsh summer sun, it’s just as important to have a pair on hand in the autumn not just to maintain your style credentials, but also for the sake of your eye health. Wearing them is crucial for protecting your eyes from harmful UV rays, reducing glare, shielding against wind and debris, and minimising blue light exposure, and they’re also handy during fluctuating light conditions.
But beyond practicality, sunglasses for women are a timeless fashion statement that never fall out of favour, and are a simple way to reflect your individual style, as well as nailing the latest seasonal trends.
Trending styles for autumn
This season’s sunglasses are all about mixing classics with modern twists. Here are some trends that are turning heads this season:
Oversized frames
Oversized frames continue to dominate fashion for autumn 2024, and are a bold and impactful style that works just as well with a casual outfit as with a tailored suit.
Style tip: Pair them with a structured blazer or trench coat to balance the proportions and add a polished finish to your ensemble.
Cat-eye sunglasses
Cat-eye shapes are classic and exude an endless sense of sophistication, and seem to come back into fashion each year, time and again. This autumn, the trend is shifting to extravagant patterns and unique colour combinations that add a retro twist to your outfit.
Style tip: Wear with vintage pieces such as a high-neck top or a pressed cardigan, to embrace the nostalgic vibe.
Tinted glasses
Tinted lenses are making a comeback, especially in autumn, with hues including amber, rose and green featuring heavily on the season’s catwalks. Offering a softer look than black lenses for an added dose of personality, they’re the perfect pick for those cloudy autumn days.
Style tip: Tinted lenses pair well with neutral-toned outfits, adding just a hint of colour without creating overwhelm.
Geometric shapes
Geometric sunglasses will add a modern twist to your autumn wardrobe; think triangles, octagons, and sharp corners, in a departure from traditional rounds and ovals.
Style tip: These work best teamed with casual outfits – keep your ensemble casual to allow them to do all the talking.
Choosing the right sunglasses for your face shape
One of the keys to finding the perfect pair of glasses is understanding your face shape. Here’s a quick guide to finding a pair that complements yours.
Round face: Choose square or geometric frames like cat eyes or square sunglasses to add definition.
Oval face: Almost any style works, but oversized, rounded frames complement the natural balance of the face.
Square face: Soften a tight jawline with rounded, convex shapes. Tinted glasses can also add a soft touch.
Heart-shaped face: Balance a broad forehead with heavy bars, such as pilots or rimless sunglasses.
How to care for your sunglasses
Luxury sunglasses are an investment and, with the right care, will last you for many seasons to come. Here’s how to keep them in optimal condition:
Clean regularly: Clean your lenses with a microfibre cloth. Avoid using paper towels or your clothes, as these can damage the surface.
Store correctly: Always store sunglasses in a sturdy case or container when not in use to prevent damage.
Avoid chemicals: Do not use household cleaners or window sprays on the glass, which can remove the protective coating.
Check the fit: Over time, the wooden frames can become rough or uneven, and metal frames can become loose or bent out of shape. Check their fit regularly and make adjustments as needed.
Reflecting your personality through the perfect pair
Sunglasses aren’t just functional accessories – they are also the ultimate means of conveying your unique personality and style. Different moods and aesthetics can be expressed by choosing frames, colours and even lens shapes to suit, and with individualism a major trend for this season, more women are looking for sunglasses that align with their personal style rather than simply following the crowd.
Look out for frames that complement your style and lifestyle. Whether it’s a vintage cat eye or an elegant geometric shape, the right sunglasses can enhance your overall look and express your fashion sense
As sustainability continues to influence consumer behaviour, interest in eco-friendly sunglasses is growing, and companies that offer biodegradable wood or use recycled materials are on the rise, allowing fashionable women to make environmentally responsible choices without going through the process of they are used to make sacrifices – so look out for these if you’re eager to make a conscious choice with the environment in mind.
The bottom line
As you update your wardrobe for autumn, be sure not to underestimate the power of a great pair of sunglasses. With a variety of trends ranging from oversized frames to tinted glass to try on for size, there is something for every style and face shape – and whether you’re drawn to classic designs or bold, contemporary shapes, the right pair promises to serve as the perfect finishing touch to elevate your autumn look.
