Just like your shoe or bag collection, sunglasses are something you likely don’t overhaul season after season. You probably have a few go-to styles that you’ve worn with some regularity over the last few years in addition to your trusty daily sunscreen, supplemented by some on-trend styles that ebb and flow by the year.
But with so much anticipation ahead of summer, we asked style and fashion experts for their absolute favorite, top-rated, under-$150 sunglasses styles.
The consensus? While frame shapes and styles are susceptible to the trend cycle, there are a few perennial favorites that crop up year after year, no matter what. “In my opinion, every well-dressed person should have a pair of oversized aviators in their arsenal,” says Shelby Hyde, a shopping editor at Harper’s Bazaar. “Along with a chic design, they are extremely versatile and can be worn with just about everything. Not to mention they look great on all face shapes.”
Ahead, we’ve rounded up some of the best sunglasses to keep your eyes shielded and your style on point.
“I’m not typically a fan of oversized frames, but these have been getting tons of extra wear in my closet,” says fashion writer Danielle Naer. “I like pairing them with my favorite ’70s-era pieces: wide-leg denims and collared shirts.”
“Whoever said bigger is better was right when it came to these Privé Riveaux sunnies,” style expert Alison Deyette says. Not only are these polarized shades stylishly oversized, but their massive frames mean they cover (and protect) more of your face.
Want to make a statement this summer? Fashion stylist Raina Silberstein recommends going retro with this pair of pink cat-eye sunglasses. “The colorful sunglasses would be incredible paired with pink clothing for a monochrome moment,” Silberstein says.
Looking for men’s style inspiration? Pick up a pair of Beal sunglasses in Eggshell for a sporty, runway-ready look. Despite their modest price, personal stylist Kriena Nederveen says that they look just as expensive as more luxe sunnies. And since they come in four colors, you can pick the ones that best match your vibe.
“I’m a fan of a classic aviator shape, but I’m liking this ever-so-subtly more angular version at the moment. It’s modern, minimal and takes up a little less face real estate,” freelance fashion writer Gina Marinelli says.
“I typically go for the tried-and-true tortoise-colored frame, but when I want to make more of a statement, these are my new lucky charm,” Deyette says, noting that the emerald-green color is her favorite. “You feel like you’re a little extra special when you slip on these oversized green frames.”
These aviators give a little bit of ’80s flair to any outfit with colored lenses and a retro style, including molded nose pads and a sleek brow-bar detail. “As much as I admire a statement frame, the truth is that you’ll catch me in a slightly oversized black pair most of the time,” Marinelli says. “I’m planning to add these to my rotation next.”
Tortoise is the perfect choice if you want to opt for a more versatile sunglass coloring. They pair seamlessly with “head-to-toe black outfits just as well as, say, a tangerine sundress,” Naer says.
“Much like aviators, all-black sunglasses that cover the majority of your eyes are a daily essential,” Hyde says. “They’ll come in handy, for early-morning flights especially.”
These simple black sunglasses match with nearly everything, and their clean, rectangular shape and small blue detail ensure you’re looking sharp everywhere you go.
Sunglasses that are also sustainable? Crap Eyewear has tons of plant-based and earth-friendlier frames made in California, including these Heavy Tropix pair that will look good on just about anyone.
According to Silberstein, “sleek sunglasses in a retro-inspired shape” are a must for any wardrobe. Case in point: These polarized sunnies from Raen are a favorite of Silberstein’s because they complement a variety of face shapes and personal styles. And if tortoiseshell isn’t your thing, they also come with gray frames and brown lenses.
“Your summer essentials should include just one pair of playful sunglasses that can be worn on festive occasions,” Hyde says. “Opt for a retro cat-eye style to keep it sleek and chic.”
“Round lenses are picking up steam for summer, and at $95, this pair will be the perfect pick for sunny days ahead,” says Angela Melero, The Zoe Report’s executive editor.
Another pair of simple round sunglasses, these come in black, gray, moss and tortoise colorways.
These tortoiseshell-framed sunglasses are one of Warby Parker’s staff picks. “They’re modern and timeless at the same time,” the Warby Parker staff says.
“I always need a funky, novelty pair of sunnies for those days I want to make a statement,” Melero says.
“These sunnies are fun and bold,” says Micaéla Verrelien, a New York City-based model and content creator. “Everyone needs one pair of shades with a print.”
“I love colorful sunglasses. Not only are they vibrant but they help get you summer-ready,” Verrelien says.
The ideal pair for a trip to the beach, these colorful specs from Knockaround are super lightweight and only $35. The company also makes one of our favorite pairs of budget running sunglasses.
These midsize cat-eye frames are suitable for any face shape and give a modern, upscale twist to a classic silhouette.
“There’s something timelessly cool about a pair of tortoiseshell sunnies,” Marinelli says. “In a retro cat-eye shape, this pair is super playful without veering into costumey or gimmicky.”