OK, Ray-Ban’s Wayfarer glasses are still a must-have. The Clubmaster and retro-inspired frames seem just as timeless. And some will continue to express their eco-friendly side with a wooden pair, regardless… But this year, there’s something new in the men’s sunglasses department!
With XXL size (or even larger), a touch of color, and dividing lines: here are the 5 big trends of summer 2024 and the 15 best pairs of sunglasses to have style this year.
A mask in place of glasses
Summer 2024 sees the meteoric rise of sun masks, directly inspired by high altitude sports and speed racing. These covering models, often seen on the catwalks of top designers, combine maximum protection and a futuristic look. Designed to wrap around the entire contour of the eyes, they offer optimal UV protection and a panoramic field of vision, perfect for lovers of water sports and sliding.
These masks come in light and durable materials, such as polycarbonate, and sport vibrant mirror tints, from electric blue to bright red. Their avant-garde side not only appeals to athletes, but also to fashion enthusiasts looking for an accessory that is both bold and functional.
Well-known brands such as Oakley (with Kylian Mbappé as a striking ambassador!) and Balenciaga (coincidentally!) make them masterpieces of their summer collections, but also think of more precise designers such as Philippe V, Hayden Perlie or Renaissance.
The oversize keeps getting bigger
We keep the same spirit, with a more classic shape… but an ever more imposing format! Already popular in recent years, oversized sunglasses are gaining even more ground in 2024. Is this a way to make an even stronger style statement or to give oneself the best possible sun protection? Probably a bit of both… In any case, this summer again, the frames are getting wider, the lenses are getting longer, and a maximalist effect is sought for an imposing and sophisticated look.
These glasses, often inspired by the 70s and 80s, can be found at many luxury houses such as Gucci, Dior or Walter Van Beirendonck, but more and more brands are getting on board. Thick acetate frames and tinted lenses dominate, adding a touch of mystery and glamour to every outfit. Even the Clubmaster go into “Mega” mode this year!
Frames of Great Delicacy
Contrary to the first two trends mentioned in this article, thin and delicate frames are also making a notable comeback for the summer of 2024. Minimalist and refined, these glasses are ideal for those who prefer discretion (although) without sacrificing style. Here, materials like titanium and stainless steel are favored, not only for their lightness and durability, but also because they allow you to add a retro-futuristic touch to your look.
If you want to channel your inner Brad Pitt or David Beckham circa 1990-2000, these “slim” sunglasses are made for you. Persol, Tom Ford, Givenchy, Prada offer very sleek versions with subtle geometric shapes. To “counterbalance” the thinness of the frame, some models also feature very thick arms (a matter of taste).
Long considered “feminine”, these thin glasses actually adapt to all body types, especially as they harmonize perfectly with light summer outfits and more formal looks!
Colored glasses are resistant
They too, were thought to be outdated and permanently put in the closet. But after making a comeback in 2023, colored glasses continue to be an essential choice for summer 2024. More than ever, vibrant and bold shades are in vogue, from fuchsia pink to emerald green, through bright orange or more traditional blue.
Beyond the purely aesthetic aspect, these colored glasses offer advantages in terms of visual comfort and protection against glare. Time and again, Ray-Ban is among the brands that have adopted this trend, but we can also mention Maui Jim and Etnia Barcelona for example, which incorporate these lenses into varied and stylish models. These even allow for rimless frames to experience a new youth, as seen with Cartier.
In short, from round retro glasses (à la John Lennon) to the most avant-garde designs, colored lenses are comfortable in all terrains!
The umpteenth return of Aviator glasses
They may be part of the timeless pieces, but “aviator” type glasses seem even more essential this year! The Top Gun spirit is still very much alive and these icons of men’s fashion continue to attract with their classic design and their very… virile look! We do however note some (timid) evolutions, with sometimes new materials and sophisticated finishes.
Of course, it’s impossible to ignore Ray-Ban glasses with this style, but we also recommend you to take a look at models from Carrera, Serengeti, Celine, Bottega Veneta, Calvin Klein or Jacques-Marie Mage. Aviators remain a safe choice for those looking for a versatile, elegant and always fashionable pair of glasses… and there’s only an embarrassment of riches!
