Let the sunshine in: daring spring eyewear looks
Spring 2021 sunglasses take shape in visions of neon and daring colour combinations, reports Jody Miller
Oh, how innocent we were a year ago. The promise of spring sunshine was thwarted by unforeseen clouds. As summer rolled around, the fog deepened despite the blazing heat and face coverings became the fashion accessory of necessity.
Now that most of us have a well stocked mask wardrobe, it’s time to think about expressing our individuality again loud and clear. Spending time outdoors is especially welcome under the circumstances and sunglasses are a natural choice as we head into spring with a renewed outlook on life and its possibilities.
The spring 2021 styles have not changed drastically from last year. However, some graphic colours and styles that may have seemed too fanciful last spring are just what we need to lift our spirits and give our wardrobe a fresh look that does not always take itself too seriously. We’ve selected several options across the price spectrum so everyone can have their moment in the sun.
Barton Perreira
Handmade luxury eyewear that is not mass-produced, Barton Perreira introduces the spring–summer 2021 collection. Encompassing style and sophistication to enhance the world, the latest collection adds eight new designs to the brand’s repertoire of contemporary chic. Shown here, Akahi Flirtini is what happens when high-style lets itself free.
Loewe Paula’s Ibiza
For carefree days that never end. With the bohemian spirit of Paula’s Ibiza collaboration, Jonathan Anderson channels the swinging ’60s with Loewe’s yellow acetate sunglasses created in collaboration with the Balearic boutique. They’re crafted in Italy with concave rectangular frames and chunky white acetate arms accented by yellow logos at the temples and tips, then set with black tinted lenses that offer 100 per cent UV protection.
Balenciaga Aviator frame
There won’t be an eye in the room or on the beach that won’t be fixated on you, thanks to these fascinating ultraviolet shades. The sleek aviator frames provide a sleek backdrop to the beguiling purple hue.
Ray-Ban Nomad Pink Floyd
Pops of electrifying pink enliven the classic tortoise-shell. From the ’70s archive, these Wayfarer-inspired shades with oversized temples blend movie-star allure with rock-chick spirit. The striped Havana frame features flashes of neon pink paired with pink photochromic lenses.
Privé Revaux
Affordability that is nearly unheard of, this celebrity-founded eyewear brand presents gender-neutral styles that include capsule collections from the world’s top style-makers and celebrities. The low price begs you to explore colours and shapes to suit every mood and occasion. Shown here is the Clique in primary yellow on Riverdale’s Madelaine Petsch.
Le Specs Protozoa
Beach Blanket Bingo anyone? From the Luxe collection, these shades feature a unique bevel-scalloped detail along the top bar. This playful and extravagant cat-eye is reminiscent of the ’50s and ’60s tiki themes. Handcrafted from translucent neon orange acetate and finished with a contrast khaki lens.
Poppy Lissiman Stop Sign
Stop Sign is a collaboration between Poppy Lissiman and Hassan Hajjaj’s new lifestyle brand Andy Wahloo Apparel, celebrating both brands’ love for bold shapes and colours and inspired by global street culture. Protected by the gold Khamsa hand and featuring the Andy Wahloo logo on the temples. Available in a variety of audacious colours that stand out in a sea of the less adventurous.
Gentle Monster Hyper YC3
Fierce, fearless, and futuristic. The brand takes design to the edges of artistry. Hues of neon tackle the sun in this metal goggle-style frame in a brilliant yellow. Accentuated by a clear yellow acetate detail attached to the frame front and highlighted by metal details throughout.
Emilio Pucci cat-eye half-frame
The swinging ’60s Italian style. Crafted from purple acrylic with orange-tinted lenses, these exaggerated cat-eye sunglasses come detailed with the house logo at the side, plus a detachable matte chain which adds to the retro vibe.
By Karen Wazen Kaia
The Instagram fashion influencer and entrepreneur is riding the neon train. The oversized frame redefined with a colourful twist and a best seller. Available in a variety of shades. Shown here in neon green.
Oliver Goldsmith Oops
Originally designed by Oliver Goldsmith in 1969, the Oops was a favourite of Audrey Hepburn. The perfect circular lenses make it a classic of ’70s design. Big, bold and beautiful, the double pin detailing brings a subtle accent to the side of the frame. Handmade in Italy using the finest cotton acetate and premium UVA–UVB sun lenses.
