When it comes to fashion accessories that are needed year-round, sunglasses are non-negotiable. But, that search for the perfect pair of frames is never an easy feat, it’s an endless process that includes research, pinpointing the right pair for your face shape, among other important factors like, whether you want mirrored or polarised lenses. The list goes on.
Despite the search that might come with choosing a flattering frame that ticks all the style (and comfort) boxes, they offer up a classic way to instantly uplift almost any outfit, no matter the time of year. That’s why we’ve tracked down 11 of the best sunglass brands to put on your radar, to help make that search a little easier.
QUAY
Founded on the roadside of the Australian festival circuit, QUAY sunglasses offer up bold styles in unique shapes, creating pieces that are both cool and affordable. Since its inception, the local label has also collaborated with some of the world’s biggest names for their collections – think everyone from Jennifer Lopez, Lizzo and Chrissy Teigen. Here you’ll find everything from mega–aviators and chic cat eyes, to universally flattering squares.
Vehla
This new Aussie eyewear brand is quickly becoming the It-girl sunglass of choice. Founded in 2019, the brand aims to elevate a woman’s everyday look with its modern and luxe frames. The brand has timeless shapes that can be worn with anything, providing the perfect addition to your breezy summer linens or winter coats. Everyone from Bella Hadid, Alessandra Ambrosio, Romee Strjid, and Irina Shayk has been spotted in a pair of Vehla shades.
Le Specs
This local label has a rich history of creating cool and timeless frames, now renowned globally for its iconic and innovative sunglass collections at an affordable price. Recently, Le Specs introduced its first-ever Le Sustain collection, a standalone series of signature styles made from completely sustainable materials with a zero-waste componentry. Its frames, featuring the D-Frame and Bandwagon, are made from 23 per cent meadow grass and 77 per cent recycled plastic, with its pouch and packaging also being made from recycled and sustainably sourced materials.
Get a discount on your new Le Spec sunglasses when you shop at THE ICONIC, here.
Shevoke
Founded by Lisa Hyde, the Australian brand creates design-led sunglasses for the “effortless minimalist”, anchored in earthy tones with a few seasonal pops of colour added to the mix. The label that has quickly become a favourite among the style set, being worn by some of the world’s biggest It-girls. If you’re after the vintage vibe, this is a must.
Poppy Lissiman
For those on the hunt for the perfect pair of “Instagrammable” sunnies, you’ve found the place. The Australian-born designer started her eponymous label in 2008 and ventured into the specs space in 2015. The sunglasses are playful, quirky, and come in vibrant sorbet hues. Some frames are even designed with crystal embellishments or star prints.
Shop here.
Ray-Ban
As one of the most iconic sunglass labels in the world (and one of the most instantly recognisable fashion pieces), it’s unsurprising Ray-Ban should be on your radar when looking for new frames. From their 1952 Wayfarer model, featuring a thick acetate frame, that is still just as popular as when they were first released, to a range of modern and innovative designs that are regularly seen on famous faces, including Audrey Hepburn in 1961’s Breakfast at Tiffany’s.
Pared Eyewear
Pared Eyewear continues to prove its one of Australia’s most-loved eyewear brand’s, creating signature styles that are synonymous with the local label’s fashion-forward aesthetic, as well as launching collaborations with iconic designers. The collections feature collabs with Bec + Bridge., P.E Nation and Holly Ryan Jewellery, as well as International labels The Salty Blonde and Staerk & Christensen. They focus on clean lines and simplicity with its signature notches.
Velvet Canyon
Reality Eyewear
For those after vintage-inspired, fashion-forward eyewear that is as wearable as it is fashionable, look to Reality Eyewear. The brand has been spotted on the likes of Gigi Hadid, Kourtney Kardashian and Emily Ratajkowski, with their cutting-edge designs quickly gaining a cult following around the world.
ROC Eyewear
The Australian-founded label is known for creating statement shades that fit perfectly into the “very Instagrammable” category. From printed front to classic cat-eye’s and coloured aviators, the local label has cemented itself as a go-to when looking for the pair of sunnies to see you through the year.
szâde
This new Aussie label is changing the game when it comes to sustainability in the fashion industry, with a revolutionary recycling process to create each of their fashion-forward designs. The sunglasses are made from recycled sunglasses, with a goal to break the cycle of waste and excess in the industry. The local label takes broken, discarded sunglasses that were destined for landfill and develops a premium 100 per cent certified recycled product—so you can shop mindfully for your summer shades here.
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