Would you pay $300 for a pair of sunglasses? How about $500? Or $800?
When you’re shopping for designer shades, you may see prices like this, and they may stop you in your tracks. You might wonder if it’s worth spending that much on sunglasses.
That’s what we’re here to discuss. What makes expensive sunglasses worth it? Is it the design, the lenses, or that flashy designer logo? Let’s get into it and find out!
What Are Considered Expensive Sunglasses?
There’s no exact price point for expensive sunglasses. What each person considers to be ‘expensive’ can differ significantly. For some, any shades over $100 are pricey. Other shoppers expect to pay high-end prices to bag designer brands.
However, considering that you can find non-branded, affordable sunglasses at your local drugstore or H&M for under $40, a pair of Gucci shades for $400 may seem costly!
Are Pricey Sunglasses Worth It?
If you’re new to the world of designer sunglasses, then you might be wondering what the fuss is about. When I saw my friend splurge on a pair of Prada sunglasses for $450, I thought she’d lost her mind!
I was happy enough with my stylish yet cheap sunglasses from Zara. At the time (I’m talking over a decade ago), I was new to the world of designer brands, and I couldn’t see the difference between our sunglasses until I looked closer.
Firstly, her Pradas, as she affectionately called them, felt heavier, the material looked more expensive, the construction was more robust, and they weren’t as flimsy and fragile as my knock-offs. Secondly, the lenses offered better UV protection and were thicker, featuring a warm tint.
Lastly, the design of her Pradas stood out from a mile away. They featured swirled arms, thick tortoise frames, and an oversized Paris Hilton-inspired shape. They were it-girl sunglasses. I realized my Zara shades paled in comparison. My shades were made to last through the summer, but her Pradas were made to last for years (and they did).
Why People Love Designer Shades
Designer sunglasses are about more than hype. They often feature cutting-edge designs, fun shapes, bold logos, and high-quality construction.
They can just look and feel more substantial. Plus, for people who love status symbols, they communicate style and sometimes wealth. Think about the show Succession, which gave us a master class on quiet luxury. One pair of standout expensive sunglasses from the show was the Jacques Marie Mage sunglasses, which retail for around $800.
The Quality Is Often Better
You don’t have to be luxury-obsessed to invest in expensive sunglasses. If you’re someone who values quality and wants to find a pair to cherish for years, then well-reviewed, popular brands can be the answer.
Most big branded sunglasses are made by the biggest manufacturers in the game, including EssilorLuxottica, Marchon, and Kering. These companies have a legacy of specialized manufacturing and reliable quality.
In comparison, cheaper sunglasses look good for a few months without any focus on durability or longevity. They could be made in any factory around the world that produces everything from electronics to shoes, rather than in specialized eyewear factories.
How to Figure Out if YOU Want to Splurge
It might be tempting to follow your friends and splash out on the latest Gucci shades or to pick a pair you saw in a TV show, but consider what would make expensive sunglasses worth it for you.
Do they Suit Your Face?
If you’ve tried on a pair of sunglasses that make you feel like a million dollars, then they’re a winner. It’s not always easy to find shades that complement your face the way you would like.
To make sure they’re winners, you could use the EZContacts Fittingbox app to try on your sunglasses virtually!
Do the Sunglasses Have Special Design Features?
Some expensive sunglasses feature incredible design features, from intricate prints to bejeweled frames.
I’ve included some of my favorite examples of stylish, statement-making, expensive sunglasses. These designs can’t be mimicked or knocked off; they are truly original.
This pair of cat-eye sunglasses by Saint Laurent features mirrored copper lenses that shimmer. They strike a balance between looking futuristic and timeless. The cool color combination and high-quality lenses are not something you’d find in a cheap store.
EZContacts customer Jennifer P. loves the shape (and the discounted price):
“So cute saw on an Instagram photo shoot post for Nordstrom so I instantly looked them up on here and got them at 60% off the price of Nordstrom – very flattering on all faces!!!”
These epic round Ray-Bans feature a mix of brown and gold frames with a double-bridged design. The unisex design is perfect for anyone who is looking to upgrade their sunglasses.
While they might be seen as expensive, Ray-Bans generally retail for less than other designer sunglasses, so they could be considered a bargain!
Lee V. found them even cheaper at EZContacts than in-store, saving him even more:
“I ordered a pair of ray bans that I fell in love with at the Doctors Office went on line and EZContacts had exactly what I wanted at a fraction of the price.”
Are the Sunglasses Practical?
What you consider practical sunglasses will depend on your lifestyle. For example, if you are an avid hiker, biker, or runner, then you may want to go for sunglasses made specifically for an active lifestyle.
Oakley and Maui Jim are two brands that create shades designed for active people as well as those who value protection. From polarized lenses to aerodynamic frames, they are designed and tested to be high-performing. So yes, they will cost more than some cheaper sunglasses, but they could be worth it.
The Maui Jim HO’OKIPA sunglasses are a great choice for water activities, driving, and just looking cool. Their lightweight frame and wraparound shape make them comfortable and extra-protective.
Jammer loves the performance of his Maui Jim shades:
“After trying on several pairs at the eye doctor I landed on this style. I chose the color because I need more contrast when golfing and playing tennis.”
These mask-shaped Oakley Sutro sunglasses are also wildly popular. The protective shape and lightweight construction make them great in action.
Oakley has always specialized in eyewear, focusing on improving fit and performance. This is why they’re used by everyone from Tom Cruise in the latest Mission Impossible movie to sports stars. Cheap sunglasses can’t compete with this level of quality.
EZContacts customer Carlos R. also attests to their performance:
“Great sunglasses. Crisp, clear and covers your eyes entirely. Perfect for biking, hiking or water sports.”
TL;DR
Expensive sunglasses can be worth the splurge if you choose the right pair.
- It’s not just about the cost, but the quality. Designer shades are usually made in specialized factories by world-class manufacturers.
- Expensive shades can look great because the designs are unique and the materials are high-end. They also feel more substantial, fit better, and protect your eyes.
- If you value durability and practicality or have an active lifestyle, specialized shades by brands like Oakley and Maui Jim could be worth the splurge.
- How much you want to spend depends on your preference for brand and budget. Some designer shades start around $100 while others climb to over $500.
