Where Stylists Shop: Classic, Vintage and Statement Sunglasses for Every Season

Sunglasses can make an outfit. Think of how iconically transformative Anna Wintour’s oversized frames and Elton John’s coloured lenses are. While sunglasses offer important UV protection, they also provide endless styling opportunities.

This autumn and beyond, Australian stylists are gravitating towards statement frames. “Clients are leaning into confident shapes that feel intentional rather than overly logo-driven,” stylist Lauren Dilena says. Tinted lenses are another trend making a comeback. Stylist Rochelle Renwick reckons they’re the “easiest way to play with fashion without overhauling your wardrobe”. Here are the top sunglasses styles you might want to consider adding to your collection. 

Rebecca Modara, Melbourne personal stylist

Sunglasses are the ultimate finishing touch. Like shoes, they can completely shift the tone of an outfit. The right pair frames the face, adds personality and instantly elevates even the simplest look. Right now, I can’t stop thinking about the Loewe Safari sunglasses in Havana. They strike that perfect balance between statement and sophistication. My clients have been loving the Tom Ford Bronson for its strong, confident shape, as well as the Bottega Drop aviators, which feel like a fresh take on a classic with the addition of the in-built earring drops. 

I always recommend looking at brands like Oroton, Cos and Soda Shades as they each offer distinct design perspectives, from timeless and refined, to bold and directional. A great pair of sunglasses shouldn’t just follow a trend, it should feel like an extension of your personal style.

Rochelle Renwick, Perth stylist and creative director

Soda Shades, Szade and Poppy Lissiman make up the majority of my sunglasses collection. I’m always drawn to coloured lenses – they’re my go-to and the easiest way to play with fashion without overhauling your wardrobe, instantly adding a sense of fun and style. The Tom Ford Bronson aviator has made waves this summer; I’m loving the return of oversized aviators. But sleek and chic will always have its place – I particularly love Soda Shades’ Shade 003.

Jenna Flood, Melbourne slow fashion stylist

I love a classic style and my Ray-Bans fit the bill. I have had them for a few years now, and they are my best friend. But in saying that, I have been making eyes (pun intended) at wire-framed, ’90s-style frames, just like these ones from Lu Goldie. Even better if they have yellow-tinted lenses.

Sonali Fernando, Perth stylist

The “it” pair of sunglasses is the Bouquet 02 sunglasses from the Gentle Monster 2026 Bouquet Collection, which is a work of art. Both my clients and I have really been into over-the-top sunglasses that are colourful, quirky and fun. It’s really about sunglasses being a commanding part of an outfit rather than an afterthought. I find that fun sunglasses are usually vintage or vintage-inspired, so the recently opened Shayde de Soleil in Fremantle is my go-to and has a fun range of unique vintage eyewear. Veteran Western Australian designer Poppy Lissiman is also a great option with a large colour and style range. Finally, a well-kept secret is that Red Cross Shops also have various arrangements with sunglass suppliers, and I’ve found many of my favourite brand-new pairs there.

Lauren Dilena, Adelaide stylist

Right now, it’s all about strong shapes with vintage undertones. I’ve been styling a lot of Chimi sunglasses. I love their bold acetate frames that feel current but timeless, and they suit a wide range of face shapes. Le Specs is still a go-to for affordable statement styles, especially its oversized and wrap-inspired frames. I’m also loving Vehla for something a little more refined. Its metal frames and warm-toned lenses are incredibly flattering and easy to wear day-to-day. Clients are leaning into confident shapes that feel intentional rather than overly logo-driven.

Ilkin Kurt, Sydney fashion consultant and stylist

I have been loving unisex sunnies lately. Our Legacy has really great options at the moment; I just purchased these ones, they’re a great shape and I love the tinted lenses. You can’t go wrong with P Johnson's Avedon Light Havana sunglasses. This beautifully remastered aviator-shaped design pays homage to the classic American photographer Richard Avedon. Thistles’ The Jack and The Al are the sunnies that I purchase for fashion brand campaigns to complement looks.

Jana Bartolo, Sydney stylist

I’ve always been a little obsessed with big, bold, dramatic sunglasses – some would say they’re basically my signature. I’m talking oversized statement-making pairs that double as sun protection and an instant mood lift. Lately, my clients and I have been all about fun, quirky shapes, as they also act as an additional accessory. I’m a fan of Gucci for the drama, Gentle Monster for conceptual designs, and can’t resist a slick pair from Bottega Veneta or Fendi when I want to feel a little extra.

Juvelle Behrendorff, Melbourne personal stylist

Eyewear can completely change the overall look of an outfit, so I love a statement frame to add interest, whether that’s an oversized shape, a coloured lens or a frame’s pop of colour. Poppy Lissiman has some seriously eye-catching styles – my favourite is the Koenji: the oversized aviator instantly gives any outfit that effortlessly cool “it” factor. If you prefer something more sleek, lean into the ’90s resurgence with a slimline frame like the Charlie from Soda Shades.

Megan Cross, Melbourne stylist and personal shopper

I am starting to see a lot of the Miu Miu A51S, which was an iconic style from the early 2000s. Personally, I love chic, classic sunglasses that feel easy to style, such as the Saint Laurent SL 557 or the Chanel Pillow sunglasses. If you want a designer alternative, Vehla is the perfect go-to.

For more shopping advice from some of Australia’s top stylists, read the rest of our Where Stylists Shop series.

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