Now that the winter snow is melting, it is time to start thinking about the new styles for the spring and summer seasons. As you may already know, sunglasses are great accessories that can add pizzazz to any outfit. The hottest styles this year are decidedly retro. These include formerly taboo styles such as cat eye sunglasses and round 70s sunglasses. If a pair of new designer sunglasses isn’t in your budget this year, you are in luck, for these styles can easily be found in any vintage store.
Cat Eye Sunglasses
This iconic style from the 1950s is making a huge comeback on the runway. Christian Dior and Giles have both featured cat-eye sunglasses in their most recent shows, and chances are, you’ll be seeing them on the streets and in the tabloids.
Cat eyes are most flattering on oval faces. They also look great on diamond faces, as they emphasize high cheekbones. However, those with square-shaped faces may be able to pull off a more conservative version of the cat eye with less of a dramatic swoop to its shape. These sunglasses tend to go best with more informal outfits, but cat eyes with a more conservative shape and dark colors can be worn in more formal environments.
Round Sunglasses
Think of John Lennon, and you’ll have the inspiration for this retro style. This year, John Lennon sunglasses are especially popular with plastic frames, although the frameless version has been spotted on the runway as well. Lady Gaga is a huge fan of this style, as are Proenza Shouler and Armani.
Square-shaped faces rejoice! Round sunglasses are perfect for angular faces, as they soften sharp jaw lines. Oval faces can pull off round sunglasses, but round faces should avoid them at all costs. They will only make the face look rounder. No matter what shape your face is, be sure to reserve round sunglasses for jeans and other casual wear. They just look tacky with formal gowns.
Butterfly Sunglasses
Supersized sunglasses have been trendy for the past several years. For 2011, the ante has been upped with oversized butterfly glasses. These can be worn with a black or brown frame in more conservative situations. To make a big statement, try wearing butterfly sunglasses in a bold color or print.
The great thing about butterfly sunglasses is that they can fit a range of face shapes. For round faces, choose a more angular pair of butterfly sunglasses. Square faces will look best with more rounded frames.
About the author: Sara Roberts is a content contributor for Just Eyewear, an eyeglasses and prescription sunglasses retailer.