For those truly attuned to fashion, it’s no secret that eyewear—be it sleek prescription frames or bold sunglasses—is the hidden hero of any ensemble. It’s the cornerstone for crafting a signature image; consider the iconic looks of Iris Apfel and Anna Wintour, forever defined by their glasses. When clothing trends come and go at a dizzying pace, one of the most valuable styling tricks I’ve learned is that your accessories are the ultimate make-or-break. And among all, eyewear reigns supreme.
This is a helpful tip, especially for travellers or jet-setters who refuse to compromise on style. On your next trip, consider packing different frames instead of an entirely new wardrobe. Even if you are an enthusiastic outfit repeater or prefer a pared-back aesthetic, simply switching to a different pair of sunglasses or a neutral frame can instantly redefine your entire look and set a completely new tone.
To put this mantra to the test, I recently packed five different pairs of glasses—all of which can be found at the Kering Eyewear outlets—for a one-week work trip. And even with repeating core clothing items, I managed to embody a different style avatar each day. This strategy is perfect for days packed with diverse events, where your style needs to shift from a casual brunch to a late-night afterparty, because the last thing you want to do is scramble for a changing room in between plans. A quick frame swap is all it takes to execute a seamless and stylish transformation.
Maui Jim – The Speed Dealer
The blurred boundaries between performance wear and high style are an eyewear trend we’re thrilled to see, especially as speed-dealer frames accelerate into the spotlight. No longer confined to the slopes or sweaty pursuits, these practical silhouettes have been embraced as street-style staples that serve as protective gear but with an undeniable fashion touch. This aerodynamic pair from Maui Jim Ho’okipa Ultra—an updated iteration of the Ho’okipa— captures that very spirit.
It delivers on every front with the chromatic PolarizedPlus2 lens that tempers the blaring sun, paired with a wraparound silhouette that hugs every face shape. It stays impeccably in place thanks to the signature Wavy Pattern on the nose pad and the temple tips, whether you’re on a long bike ride or simply speeding across the city. The sleek green frame, too, adds a shot of futuristic flair to any outfit. It grounds a relaxed look—like a sleeveless top and billowy trousers, or tops a polished ensemble, from sharp suiting to an evening dress, with a dynamic, sport-inflected twist.
Lindberg – The Minimal Pair
We have a particular affinity for the “barely-there” feel of a thin metal frame—so lightweight that on days cramped with complications, your glasses are the last thing to weigh you down. This hexagon Spirit Titanium from Lindberg delivers exactly that, coupled with a studious allure perfectly attuned to the rise of appreciation for intellectual fashion, exemplified by the “office siren” trend.
Its appeal, however, outlives any passing fad. While tiny rectangle frames come and go, the hexagon offers a timeless, architectural geometry—one that subtly elevates your look with quiet sophistication. Its minimalist design also makes it inherently versatile. The very same frame accentuates a velvety dress at a fashion show and sits perfectly atop your nose at a luncheon, paired with a flowy linen set as you raise a glass of champagne.
And what makes it truly indispensable is how meticulously engineered to fit Asian facial features—accommodating a lower nose bridge and softer contours—it offers a comfortable fit that, as someone with these features, I can personally attest to.
Bottega Veneta – The Grab-and-Go
Let’s settle this once and for all: tortoise shell sunglasses are a non-negotiable. While colour trends flicker in and out of fashion, this timeless pattern remains a constant and versatile neutrality that flatters every skin tone. Now, imagine that classic appeal magnified in a bold, oversized rectangular silhouette that brings back the 1950s glam along with woven Intrecciato-inspired details on the temples, like this pair from Bottega Veneta. This is the ultimate grab-and-go accessory, perfectly suited for virtually every occasion.
For us, it’s the definitive 9-to-5 power piece. This style brilliantly straddles the line between formal and casual, effortlessly bridging the tailored sharpness of a rigid blazer with the edge of a leather skirt. It adds a cohesive and credible element to any ensemble. And let’s not overlook its generous proportions—the secret weapon that expertly disguises the evidence of a late night, whether from a melancholic K-drama marathon or a celebratory hangover. It’s the simplest trick in the book for looking impeccably put-together, even when you’re running on fumes.
Gucci – The Bold And Loud
The rule of thumb is simple: always have a pair of statement eyewear within reach. For me, this vibrant red pair from Gucci sits firmly at the top of the list. The allure of the cat-eye frame is undeniable, channelling a vintage glamour immortalised by silver-screen legends like Audrey Hepburn and Marilyn Monroe. Beyond its nostalgic appeal, the upward flick is also designed to lift the cheekbones and add a playful touch to any ensemble.
While the feline silhouette alone makes a powerful statement, this pair is distinguished by the delicate pearls and the emblematic interlocking G logo adorning its temples. This elegant ornamentation is a secret weapon to enliven a look. Take the classic “Canada tuxedo”—an outfit that can risk appearing monotonous. When I paired these sunglasses with my denim-on-denim look, it did more than add a pop of colour; it effortlessly bridged casual and chic to complete the narrative. They are loud enough to command attention, yet it is a subtle touch that complements nearly every style.
Saint Laurent – The Bookish One
When it comes to recalibrating an outfit’s tone in a snap, few accessories are as effortlessly effective as a good ol’ oversized black frame. Long gone are the days of this hefty silhouette collecting dust on the bedside table; this Saint Laurent pair from its Fall/Winter 2025 collection proves its potential as a timeless staple, threading the needle between intellectual seriousness and modern ease. While its roots are firmly planted in a bookish, almost nerdy aesthetic, it serves as the perfect plot twist.
Take, for example, this crisp combination of a blue shirt, white pants, and flats —the introduction of these frames injects a deliberate dose of off-duty touch that softens the formality. It’s a versatile piece for seamless day-to-night transitions, to say the least. Echoing the house’s recent inclination on the runway for 1980s Wall Street renaissance, this Saint Laurent design balances its highbrow sensibility with a touch of relatable nerd. The result is an accessory that feels less like a costume and more like a daily companion you consistently rely on.
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