Twice a year, the crème de la crème of the fashion world get together, and the results are fabulous. I’m not talking about the Met Gala, but rather Fashion Month, which is split into individual Fashion Weeks in Milan, Paris, London, and New York.
It’s a non-stop parade of designer catwalk shows, events, and incredible street style. From influencers to celebrities, anyone who is someone in the fashion world is photographed in the latest trends.
This year, a variety of stylish designer sunglasses were spotted on fashion lovers, proving that shades can make or break an outfit.
Why Trends Are Set During Fashion Month
There are two main Fashion Months each year. One is typically in September and shows styles for the next spring and summer. The other is usually in February and shows styles for the following fall and winter.
The fashion world works a year in advance. That way, trends can be predicted early, and brands (like Zara, Shein, and Mango) can see what the designers are creating.
Although designer sunglasses don’t follow the same rigorous deadlines as clothes, they are still influenced by current trends.
For example, some new sunglasses will be released on the Fashion Month catwalks. Outside the shows, popular fashionistas are photographed wearing sunglasses to and from catwalk shows, which also drives trends. Vogue is one of the most reliable sources for capturing these trends through street-style photos.
Here are some of the biggest styles spotted this Fashion Month.
Black Angular Cat-Eye Sunglasses
Cat-eye sunglasses never go out of fashion. They’ve been popular since the golden age of Old Hollywood, when Marilyn Monroe and Elizabeth Taylor wore them.
This Fashion Month, several fashion show attendees were spotted in designer sunglasses with sleek black frames, which added a bit of edge to the classic look. Celebrities, including singers FKA Twigs and Raye (pictured above), were spotted in their sultry frames.
These contemporary designer sunglasses by Saint Laurent are a perfect example of pointy, sharp cat-eye sunglasses. The black frames and dark gray lenses add to the mysterious aesthetic.
Double-Bridged Tinted Sunglasses
Double bridge sunglasses are a common shape, but this Fashion Month, the size, colors, and details were next level. One attendee at a New York Fashion Week show was spotted wearing a pair with thick frames and red-tinted lenses.
Chunky acetate aviators are a modern take on the classic, thin metal versions popularized by Ray-Ban. They are less dainty, and they’re sportier and bolder in both color and design.
If you’re inspired by this trend, these epic Cutler and Gross sunglasses are all about subtle retro glamor. They are perfect for wearing with everything from workwear to casual jeans. Plus, they’re a great year-round pair of designer sunglasses that look edgy enough for winter yet fun enough for summer.
Gradient-Tinted Sunglasses
One of the biggest trends in designer sunglasses right now is gradient lenses, specifically in yellow or brown tones. So it’s no surprise that they were spotted on the runway of the Chloe show in Paris. They were also spotted on singer Rita Ora, who is always ahead of the trends.
The trend appears to be going strong, making yellow-tinted sunglasses and Y2K-inspired gradient lenses a good purchase for 2026. They offer a combination of vintage-inspired lenses and modern shapes. The overall effect is a pair of effortlessly cool shades that can be worn with dresses, oversized jackets, or sharp business suits.
Coach always makes stylish designer sunglasses. These Coach shades are wearable yet aesthetically interesting. The yellow-tinted lenses pair well with the brown tortoise frames.
Huge Chunky Sunglasses
Oversized sunglasses have been hugely popular throughout the decades. Jackie O popularized them in the ‘60s, and they came back in full force during the Y2K era. That’s when celebrities like Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie were spotted in them on the streets of Hollywood (with their tiny Chihuahuas to match).
This Fashion Month, oversized sporty mask shapes were seen on the runway of Loewe. They were also seen on fashionable attendees, including singer Levante and mega-actress Charlize Theron.
If you want to get in on this trend, these bold Gucci sunglasses are all about the black frames. They are perfect for wearing with casual outfits, so they can be the center of attention. Fashionistas were seen pairing their huge shades with button-down shirts and comfortable wide-leg pants.
Tortoiseshell Rectangular Sunglasses
During Fashion Month, classic tortoiseshell sunglasses were spotted on the Tom Ford runway paired with a showstopping suit. They are yet another style that proves that vintage-inspired and retro styles are all the rage right now.
These sunglasses by Balenciaga come in a range of colors, but the brown tortoiseshell variation is a 10/10. The print contrasts well with the oversized gold logo, making them stand out in any crowd.
Pair this style with a dramatic coat or other brown pieces of clothing, as seen on a well-dressed New York Fashion Week showgoer.
Brown on Brown Tinted Glasses
Brown frames with brown lenses are currently on trend. A few of the best looks Vogue spotted at Fashion Month were paired with brown shades. It’s the perfect combination for fall, and they’re also a great transitional accessory for spring. The it-girl Bella Hadid is a fan of this trend, bringing out her newly blonde hair.
Brown is less striking than black but equally as versatile. It’s a color that’s easy to pair with all your outfits without having to overthink if they match. Brown sunglasses exude a sophisticated appearance, making them versatile enough to be dressed up or down.
These Tory Burch sunglasses are matte and chic. The monochrome effect adds to their contemporary design. Pair them with dark wash denim jeans and a brown leather jacket for an ’80s-inspired look.
TL;DR
The fashion shows may have wrapped up, but the trends are here to stay. So why not get ahead and select some designer sunglasses that will be the envy of your friends?
- Black angular cat-eye glasses are a more edgy version of the classic shape. Use them to add some cool points to your outfit.
- Acetate aviators made the rounds at Fashion Month. They are a fun spin on the Ray-Ban versions.
- Gradient-tinted sunglasses are still expected to be a hot choice for 2026.
- Oversized sunglasses with chunky frames are all the rage. They look great in photos, too.
- Rectangular sunglasses with tortoiseshell frames were spotted on fashionistas. They add glamor to any outfit.
- Brown on brown sunglasses are a monochromatic dream. They look great year-round and add a touch of sophistication.
Shop women’s designer sunglasses here.
