The latest sunglasses trends: 10 Style Panel tips for balancing your favourite new pair with the rest of your outfit
When it comes to Spring 2013’s sunglasses trends, frames need not be boring. In fact, the louder the better because statement sunglasses are all the rage as the sun begins to come out from winter hibernation and shines bright. We’ve always loved sunglasses for their health benefits (going blind due to sun damage isn’t very cool) but recently we’ve been embracing bold frames in a big way. We DIYed our very own Prada floral pair and found 14 of the best and most affordable frames around and now we’ve asked our Style Panel to teach us a thing or two about styling the latest sunglasses trends without looking like a clown.
Karen Walker sunglasses proved to be a fan favourite with the likes of Stephanie Sterjovski and Krystin Lee of Suburban Faux-Pas with their super oversized and thick-rimmed tortoise frames. And if you’re not ready to embrace over the top shapes then perhaps a printed leopard pair will be more up your alley like Whitney Cosgrave, who kept it simple pairing leopard print with a basic black tee.
If there’s one take away from the Style Panel’s statement sunglasses tips, it’s to keep your look simple so your shades can truly shine.
Question 46: How do you style your statement sunglasses for Spring 2013? Read the answers now! »
Or jump to: BARBARA ANN SOLOMON, TORONTO | CARA MCLEAY, VANCOUVER | CHRISTINA CRAVERO, TORONTO |KAYLA SHORT, HALIFAX | KRYSTIN LEE, TORONTO | MARTA TRYSHAK, TORONTO/MONTREAL | STEPHANIE KOCH, KELOWNA | STEPHANIE STERJOVSKI, TORONTO | WHITNEY COSGRAVE, LOS ANGELES
Stephanie Koch, 27
Kelowna | Inherited Jeans
I have quite the collection of sunglasses and they are one accessory that is on my list of things that I find acceptable to invest in. That being said, I usually go for a more classic frame over trendy if I am to spend more money on it. This spring season, unique sunnies are everywhere so it’s time to have fun and go a little outside your comfort zone. I fully admit I went for a “more is more” approach with this look (which normally isn’t me) but if you are going to wear interesting sunnies, why not commit to crazy? My glasses are athletic/goggle inspired so I mirrored that in my striped pants and casual jacket. The neon and floral touches punch it up for spring—be loud and proud.
Stephanie’s wearing: Sunglasses, Valentino. Jacket, necklace, and pants, Joe Fresh. Blouse, H&M.
Marta Tryshak, 24
Toronto/Montreal | With Love Gabrielle
A girl can never go wrong with a pair of statement sunglasses. Like everything in our wardrobe it is important to remember what suits us and what doesn’t. When you’re looking for a pair of statement sunglasses it does not mean that they have to be outrageous. Always remember what you like and don’t blindly follow the trends. How about going for a pair of aviators in neon or retro shades? Try something new and fun but that is still very you.
Marta’s wearing: Coat, Mackage. Jeans, 7 For All Mankind. Sunglasses, Selima. Booties, See By Chloe.
Whitney Cosgrave, 25
Los Angeles | See Shop Eat Do
I absolutely love that statement sunglasses are a big trend this season. They are such a fun way to express your personality, and best of all – they’re usually cheap! I love to wear this leopard print pair with basics, such as my dark skinny jeans and black tee shirt that I’m wearing in this photo. I added a pair of classic pearl earrings to contrast the funky glasses as well.
Stephanie Sterjovski, 22
Toronto | Stephanie Sterjovski
Statement sunnies are an investment piece I’ve always stood behind. It can make a simple outfit for running errands like a t-shirt and leggings with hair pulled back, look so chic. Dressed up or down, these babies are going on your face, so it is likely the first thing people will notice about you. I have my fair share of statement sunglasses (love my Baroque Pradas), but my go-to lately has been my Karen Walker “Super Duper Strength” in Tortoise Shell. Less is more in most regards (for me anyways) so a simple, yet flattering piece of clothing in either black or white with a pair of statement sunnies is classic and sexy. This round I opted for a moto jacket, leather skirt and chambray shirt to mix up textures and the sunglasses completed the look without going too far (…and looking clown-ish).
Stephanie’s wearing: Coat, Zara. Shirt and Skirt, Forever 21. Clutch, H&M. Sunglasses, Karen Walker.
Cara McLeay, 28
Vancouver | A Fashion Love Affair
I love oversized, statement sunglasses and to keep them from looking over the top, I make sure to wear them with minimal accessories and non-complicated hair. This makes them look casual and cool
Cara’s Wearing: Sunglasses, Prada. Shirt and skirt, BCBG Max Azria. Heels, Valentino. Necklace, Lauren Elan. Bag, Celine.
Krystin Lee, 26
Toronto | Suburban Faux-Pas
I have recently developed a major love for sunglasses. When I felt like I had attained the wardrobe ‘staples’ for sunnies, I wanted something that made more of an impact. Enter: my Karen Walker Number One sunglasses. This oversized tortoise pair can often dominate an outfit so I tend to match the shape of the frame with pastels or bright colours to offset it’s harsh shape. This floral printed blazer and easy white tee go perfectly with the sunglasses allowing them to make a statement all on their own.
Sunglasses: Karen Walker, Blazer: Zara, Tshirt: American Eagle, Necklaces: Bip and Bop, My Name Necklace.
Kayla Short, 26
Halifax | Short Presents
From floral to reflective, the possibilities for eyewear this spring are endless. When sporting statement sunglasses be sure to allow them to do just that: make a statement. If your sunglasses are bold then you should probably tone down the other accessories around your face in hopes of preventing yourself from resembling a Christmas tree.
My favourite sunglasses at the moment may not be considered bold by industry standards, but I love them still. These slightly oversized cat eye sunnies from Joe Fresh are perfectly classic and my go-to at the moment while I shop around for a more audacious pair for summer.
Kayla’s wearing: Sunglasses, Joe Fresh. Sweater, Zara. Necklace, Adorn by Sarah Lewis. Bracelet, Loft. Jeans, Gap. Boots, Vince Camuto. Earrings, Short Presents Etsy Shoppe.
Barbara Ann Solomon, 25
Toronto | Barbara Ann’s Style Blog
Sunglasses are the easiest way to change up an outfit, and this year it’s time to have some fun with them. Whether it’s the shape of your frames, or the details added to them, make sure you are protecting your eyes with style. I look forward to DIYing a pair of cat eye sunglasses for the summer with pearls or spray paint some plastic flowers that are glue on.
These black and white frames have an amazing design on the arms and the perfect way to rock them is with this season’s black and white trend. I kept the look edgy with buckled boots and a chain choker.
Barbara’s wearing: Sunglasses, Prada. Sweater, Jacob. Tanktop, H&M. Pants, Cut25. Boots, Seychelles. Choker, Liana Marie.
Christina Cravero, 27
Toronto | The Style Mogul
In general, sunglasses are always great fashion accessories, but there are so many ways to wear statement sunglasses! It can take a casual outfit and transform it to a trendy and chic look! Whether you wear embellished sunglasses like I’m wearing or an exaggerated cat eye, or even giant rectangular lenses, there are numerous ways to wear the hottest accessory this season.
Christina’s wearing: Blouse, H&M. Jeans, Zara. Sunglasses, DIY project. Shoes, Ted Baker. Clutch, Zara. Necklaces, Vintage & Live Love Shop. Bracelets, Rachel Roy, Marc Jacobs, Mimi Boutique, H&M. Watch, Michael Kors.
 but recently we’ve been embracing bold frames in a big way. We DIYed our very own Prada floral pair and found 14 of the best and most affordable frames around and now we’ve asked our Style Panel to teach us a thing or two about styling the latest sunglasses trends without looking like a clown.
Karen Walker sunglasses proved to be a fan favourite with the likes of Stephanie Sterjovski and Krystin Lee of Suburban Faux-Pas with their super oversized and thick-rimmed tortoise frames. And if you’re not ready to embrace over the top shapes then perhaps a printed leopard pair will be more up your alley like Whitney Cosgrave, who kept it simple pairing leopard print with a basic black tee.
If there’s one take away from the Style Panel’s statement sunglasses tips, it’s to keep your look simple so your shades can truly shine.
Question 46: How do you style your statement sunglasses for Spring 2013? Read the answers now! »
Or jump to: BARBARA ANN SOLOMON, TORONTO | CARA MCLEAY, VANCOUVER | CHRISTINA CRAVERO, TORONTO |KAYLA SHORT, HALIFAX | KRYSTIN LEE, TORONTO | MARTA TRYSHAK, TORONTO/MONTREAL | STEPHANIE KOCH, KELOWNA | STEPHANIE STERJOVSKI, TORONTO | WHITNEY COSGRAVE, LOS ANGELES
Stephanie Koch, 27
Kelowna | Inherited Jeans
I have quite the collection of sunglasses and they are one accessory that is on my list of things that I find acceptable to invest in. That being said, I usually go for a more classic frame over trendy if I am to spend more money on it. This spring season, unique sunnies are everywhere so it’s time to have fun and go a little outside your comfort zone. I fully admit I went for a "more is more" approach with this look (which normally isn't me) but if you are going to wear interesting sunnies, why not commit to crazy? My glasses are athletic/goggle inspired so I mirrored that in my striped pants and casual jacket. The neon and floral touches punch it up for spring—be loud and proud.
Stephanie’s wearing: Sunglasses, Valentino. Jacket, necklace, and pants, Joe Fresh. Blouse, H&M.
Marta Tryshak, 24
Toronto/Montreal | With Love Gabrielle
A girl can never go wrong with a pair of statement sunglasses. Like everything in our wardrobe it is important to remember what suits us and what doesn’t. When you’re looking for a pair of statement sunglasses it does not mean that they have to be outrageous. Always remember what you like and don’t blindly follow the trends. How about going for a pair of aviators in neon or retro shades? Try something new and fun but that is still very you.
Marta’s wearing: Coat, Mackage. Jeans, 7 For All Mankind. Sunglasses, Selima. Booties, See By Chloe.
Whitney Cosgrave, 25
Los Angeles | See Shop Eat Do
I absolutely love that statement sunglasses are a big trend this season. They are such a fun way to express your personality, and best of all - they're usually cheap! I love to wear this leopard print pair with basics, such as my dark skinny jeans and black tee shirt that I'm wearing in this photo. I added a pair of classic pearl earrings to contrast the funky glasses as well.
Stephanie Sterjovski, 22
Toronto | Stephanie Sterjovski
Statement sunnies are an investment piece I've always stood behind. It can make a simple outfit for running errands like a t-shirt and leggings with hair pulled back, look so chic. Dressed up or down, these babies are going on your face, so it is likely the first thing people will notice about you. I have my fair share of statement sunglasses (love my Baroque Pradas), but my go-to lately has been my Karen Walker "Super Duper Strength" in Tortoise Shell. Less is more in most regards (for me anyways) so a simple, yet flattering piece of clothing in either black or white with a pair of statement sunnies is classic and sexy. This round I opted for a moto jacket, leather skirt and chambray shirt to mix up textures and the sunglasses completed the look without going too far (...and looking clown-ish).
Stephanie’s wearing: Coat, Zara. Shirt and Skirt, Forever 21. Clutch, H&M. Sunglasses, Karen Walker.
Cara McLeay, 28
Vancouver | A Fashion Love Affair
I love oversized, statement sunglasses and to keep them from looking over the top, I make sure to wear them with minimal accessories and non-complicated hair. This makes them look casual and cool
Cara’s Wearing: Sunglasses, Prada. Shirt and skirt, BCBG Max Azria. Heels, Valentino. Necklace, Lauren Elan. Bag, Celine.
Krystin Lee, 26
Toronto | Suburban Faux-Pas
I have recently developed a major love for sunglasses. When I felt like I had attained the wardrobe 'staples' for sunnies, I wanted something that made more of an impact. Enter: my Karen Walker Number One sunglasses. This oversized tortoise pair can often dominate an outfit so I tend to match the shape of the frame with pastels or bright colours to offset it's harsh shape. This floral printed blazer and easy white tee go perfectly with the sunglasses allowing them to make a statement all on their own.
Sunglasses: Karen Walker, Blazer: Zara, Tshirt: American Eagle, Necklaces: Bip and Bop, My Name Necklace.
Kayla Short, 26
Halifax | Short Presents
From floral to reflective, the possibilities for eyewear this spring are endless. When sporting statement sunglasses be sure to allow them to do just that: make a statement. If your sunglasses are bold then you should probably tone down the other accessories around your face in hopes of preventing yourself from resembling a Christmas tree.
My favourite sunglasses at the moment may not be considered bold by industry standards, but I love them still. These slightly oversized cat eye sunnies from Joe Fresh are perfectly classic and my go-to at the moment while I shop around for a more audacious pair for summer.
Kayla’s wearing: Sunglasses, Joe Fresh. Sweater, Zara. Necklace, Adorn by Sarah Lewis. Bracelet, Loft. Jeans, Gap. Boots, Vince Camuto. Earrings, Short Presents Etsy Shoppe.
[caption id="attachment_135705" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Photography by Trevor Negin[/caption]
Barbara Ann Solomon, 25
Toronto | Barbara Ann’s Style Blog
Sunglasses are the easiest way to change up an outfit, and this year it's time to have some fun with them. Whether it's the shape of your frames, or the details added to them, make sure you are protecting your eyes with style. I look forward to DIYing a pair of cat eye sunglasses for the summer with pearls or spray paint some plastic flowers that are glue on.
These black and white frames have an amazing design on the arms and the perfect way to rock them is with this season's black and white trend. I kept the look edgy with buckled boots and a chain choker.
Barbara's wearing: Sunglasses, Prada. Sweater, Jacob. Tanktop, H&M. Pants, Cut25. Boots, Seychelles. Choker, Liana Marie.
Christina Cravero, 27
Toronto | The Style Mogul
In general, sunglasses are always great fashion accessories, but there are so many ways to wear statement sunglasses! It can take a casual outfit and transform it to a trendy and chic look! Whether you wear embellished sunglasses like I'm wearing or an exaggerated cat eye, or even giant rectangular lenses, there are numerous ways to wear the hottest accessory this season.
Christina's wearing: Blouse, H&M. Jeans, Zara. Sunglasses, DIY project. Shoes, Ted Baker. Clutch, Zara. Necklaces, Vintage & Live Love Shop. Bracelets, Rachel Roy, Marc Jacobs, Mimi Boutique, H&M. Watch, Michael Kors.){kind=link}