New Year, new eyewear! That time has officially rolled around where we release our list of top brands for the year ahead.
This post has become our annual tradition, and thousands of readers have enjoyed our updates. We include a mix of options for men and women, ensuring that everyone can find a pair they love.
So, take a look through and find your perfect pair to rock in 2026!
How Do We Choose?
Each year, EZContacts releases the much-anticipated list of top eyewear brands for the upcoming year. Since we offer thousands of styles from hundreds of famous and fashionable brands, it’s not easy!
Our pages feature a wide selection of eyeglasses and sunglasses for men, women, and children. We collate data on popular brands, customer reviews, trends, and industry movers and shakers to compile a list of the ones to watch.
So, without further ado, we’re proud to present 26 brands making a major impact on the eyewear world in 2026!
26. Swarovski (NEW!)
Swarovski is new on our list this year! Swarovski was founded by Daniel Swarovski in 1895 in Austria. He changed the jewelry game by creating precision-cut crystals that look like real diamonds (for a fraction of the price).
Fast forward to today, and the brand is still as epic as ever! New on this year’s list, the designs are fun, flirty, and of course, blingy.
- Swarovski celebrated its 130th anniversary in 2025 with the “Masters of Light” exhibition, which traveled from the U.S. to Europe and brought together celebrities and stars.
- The brand’s ambassador, Ariana Grande, is huge right now as the face of the Wicked movie, so it’s set to be an exciting 2026 for Swarovski.
Swarovski specializes in women’s eyewear (sorry, guys). Swarovski sunglasses, in particular, are any crystal lover’s fantasy. The Swarovski SK7011 is fun and sparkly, while the Swarovski SK7016 is perfect for gold-lovers.
25. Kate Spade (NEW!)
Kate Spade is new on our list, but it’s no surprise considering the brand’s wearable, fun, and diverse eyewear collection.
Founded in 1993 by Kate and Andy Spade in New York, it has all the casual, quirky, and cool elements of a brand made in the Big Apple.
- Kate Spade eyewear ranges from multi-colored rectangular frames to classic cat-eye tortoiseshell styles. There are often fun little details in the eyewear, and they also play with color.
- The brand is particularly well-known for making eyeglasses that are both bold and comfortable.
- The eyewear styles are generally affordable, with some available for under $100.
Popular products include the Bayonetta-inspired Kate Spade LUCYANN US and the pretty-in-pink Kate Spade Brylie glasses. Kate Spade specializes in women’s eyewear, but they also have a few unisex styles, such as the Kate Spade RAGAN US. They also have a small selection of kids’ eyewear.
24. Oliver Peoples 🔽
Oliver Peoples was number 23 on our list last year, and this year it has fallen just one spot to number 24. Oliver Peoples is one of the top specialized eyewear brands, and their popularity is only continuing to grow. The brand opened its first store in California in 1987, and it’s been a cult-classic contemporary brand ever since.
- Oliver Peoples glasses don’t go out of style, thanks to their chic shapes and high-quality frames.
- Garrett Leight, the son of one of the founders of Oliver Peoples (Larry Leight), has created his own eyewear brand called GLCO. This brand may find its way onto our next list after their sold-out collection with Ozzy Osbourne.
- The brand continues to cement its stylish status with a collaboration with tennis star Roger Federer. Let’s see what they will come out with in 2026.
Most Oliver Peoples eyewear is unisex, including these two popular models: Oliver Peoples OV5004 RILEY-R glasses and the Oliver Peoples OV5186 GREGORY PECK.
23. Tory Burch 🔽
One of the hottest American fashion brands is undoubtedly Tory Burch. Founded in 2004, it’s risen to global fame fast with wearable clothes and fun accessories. It was number 22 on our list last year, and this year it has just fallen one spot to number 23.
The popular eyewear brand features a classy, modern aesthetic. They offer a variety of wearable styles.
- Their styles are classically American and take inspiration from the busy city woman.
- Tory Burch makes designer eyewear at generally affordable price points.
- The latest Tory Burch eyewear campaign, starring it-girl Emily Ratajowski, featured lots of oversized shapes.
Tory Burch specializes in women’s eyewear. Some popular styles include the Tory Burch TY7187U sunglasses and the fun Tory Burch TY2084 glasses.
22. Carrera 🔽
One of the most famous eyewear brands has secured a spot on our list again. It was number 19 on our list last year, and this year it comes in at number 22. Founded by Wilhelm Anger in 1956, Carrera was inspired by extreme sports, particularly Carrera Panamericana, a huge racing event.
- Initially focused on sports sunglasses, Carrera now makes a range of fashionable styles, including oversized and mask-shaped sunglasses.
- The typical style is masculine and square, with some bling in the form of gold accents.
Carrera offers men’s, women’s, and unisex styles. Top styles for men include the CARRERA 1069/S and the sleek Carrera 5039/S. Top women’s and unisex models include the Carrera VICTORY C 12/S and the Carrera 1016/S.
21. Linda Farrow (NEW!)
Linda Farrow is another new entry for this year! The brand was founded in London in 1970, which explains the eyewear brand’s glamorous, groovy appeal. After a few years of being dormant, the brand was revived in 2003 and has been creating epic luxury eyewear ever since.
- They create a mix of collections ranging from affordable everyday styles to sunglasses encrusted with sapphires that retail for over $4,000.
- The brand released its latest ‘Explorer’ collection in late 2025, which uses precious metals, including white gold.
- They often collaborate with other designers. Past examples include Phillip Lim and Diane von Furstenberg.
Linda Farrow mostly creates unisex eyewear. Cool unisex styles include the retro Dries Van Noten by Linda Farrow DVN99 and the iconic Linda Farrow LFL1550S Emmy.
20. Coach 🔽
Another American classic brand has made it onto the list this year. It was number 17 on our list last year, and this year it comes in at number 20. Coach was founded in 1941 and has gone from strength to strength, including becoming a popular eyewear brand.
The styles are modern and made for anyone and everyone, featuring chic designs and fun, playful models.
- Coach’s styles are among the more affordable on the list, with some models available for under $150.
- The brand is seeing new interest from Gen Z, further cementing its intergenerational appeal.
Popular styles for women include the Coach HC8132 L109 multi-colored sunglasses and the chic, black Coach HC8295 L1147. Styles for men include the classic Coach HC8427U and the Coach HC7178 CAE80.
19. Fendi 🔽
Fendi was number 18 on our list last year, and this year it has just fallen one spot to number 19. Another classic Italian heritage brand on the list, Fendi was founded in 1925 in Rome and started out creating leather and fur goods. Today, they’ve diversified into other accessories, including eyewear.
- Fendi eyewear is all about that Italian glamor and va-va-voom shapes.
- There are plenty of cat-eye glasses and tortoiseshell frames, making them timeless.
Fendi offers a wide selection of women’s and unisex styles. Top unisex styles include the luxurious black Fendi ROMA FE40100I sunglasses and the uber-glam FENDIGRAPHY FE50065I black eyeglasses. Popular women’s styles include the quirky Fendi 0060/S and the Fendi Ff 0275.
18. Dior 🔽
Dior was number 13 on our list last year, and this year it comes in at number 18. When you think about luxury fashion, Dior is one of the main brands that comes to mind. It doesn’t get more famous, French, or fabulous than Dior. This brand brings to mind Old Hollywood; actresses like Audrey Hepburn loved the brand.
The brand rose to fame around the time of WWII, creating huge, luxurious dresses when other brands were cutting back. It was called the ‘New Look’ and shows that Dior has always been experimental.
- The brand later launched its eyewear line, which includes many timeless pieces.
- The styles are generally less blingy or futuristic than some other brands on the list, but the focus on subtle, contemporary designs works for Dior.
EZContacts offers a range of unisex styles, including the Dior CD40142U sunglasses and the elegant Dior CD50103I glasses.
17. Saint Laurent 🔼
Saint Laurent has jumped up on our list; it was number 21 last year, and this year it’s number 17. Saint Laurent was originally known as YSL (Yves Saint Laurent) before it rebranded in 2012. Founded in Paris in 1961, it’s a classic French fashion house that is now world-famous.
The main aesthetic is chic, clean, and sleek styles, which carry over to the brand’s eyewear collections.
- A celebrity favorite, Hailey Bieber, Charli XCX, and Zoe Kravitz have all been spotted in Saint Laurent sunglasses.
- The brand focuses mainly on contemporary and classic black sunglasses and eyeglasses.
- The new 2026 campaign features it-girl Charli XCX wearing massive black sunglasses, showing the trend isn’t going anywhere!
Saint Laurent offers a wide range of women’s, men’s, and unisex styles. Some popular women’s styles include the edgy Saint Laurent SL 276 MICA sunglasses and the Saint Laurent SL 545 aviators. Men’s models include the dapper black Saint Laurent SL 574 and the Saint Laurent SL 674 sunglasses.
16. Bottega Veneta (NEW!)
New on this year’s list is celebrity favorite Bottega Veneta. The brand was founded in 1966 by Renzo Zengiaro and Michele Taddei.
In the early 2000s, it was on the verge of bankruptcy, but none other than Tom Ford (the fashion designer) and the Gucci Group (now Kering) saved the struggling fashion house.
- Today, they’re worth over a billion and have become a mega-brand that also creates sought-after eyewear.
- They are more ‘quiet luxury’ than loud logos. The brand makes sophisticated yet fun eyewear loved by fashionistas, including Hailey Bieber and actress Dakota Johnson.
Bottega Veneta creates a range of women’s, men’s, and unisex styles. Popular women’s styles include the Bottega Veneta BV1322S black sunglasses, which feature their classic thick frames and subtle gold accent, and the fun green Bottega Veneta BV1004S. Top men’s styles include the Bottega Veneta BV1012S aviator sunglasses and the Bottega Veneta BV1120O glasses, which include luxurious transparent frames.
15. Persol ↔️
Persol was number 15 last year, and it has also stayed in that same spot this year! Persol is one of the oldest specialized eyewear brands on this list. Founded in Italy in 1917, Persol started out similarly to Oakley and Carrera by making sports eyewear.
Today, they make a range of stylish and sporty styles that are also ideal for daily wear.
- They’ve become a classic accessory for fashion-lovers and eyewear aficionados, thanks to the quality designs and reliable construction.
- The brand has been around for over a century and keeps coming out with retro yet modern styles, such as oval frames and aviator glasses.
Persol offers a range of unisex and men’s styles. Some top men’s styles include the tortoiseshell Persol PO0649 sunglasses and the timeless round Persol PO3007V eyeglasses. The round Persol PO3286S sunglasses and the Persol PO3292S shades are popular unisex styles.
14. Loewe ↔️
Founded in 1846 in Spain, Loewe evolved from a leather goods brand into a global fashion house that produces a diverse range of products. Loewe was also number 14 on our list last year.
The brand is a fashion-lover’s favorite for its incredible attention to detail and experimental styles.
- The fun versatility of Loewe carries over to their eyewear, with lots of oversized chunky designs, quirky frames, and pops of color.
- The brand is not afraid to play with color, which results in some interesting pieces.
- Loewe is a bit in-your-face sometimes, but celebrity icons, including Naomi Campbell and Beyoncé, love the statement-making eyewear.
EZContacts has a fun range of unisex styles, which include the daring Loewe SIGNATURE LW40064U and the playful Loewe CURVY LW40112I.
13. Burberry 🔽
Burberry is down one spot this year; it was number 12 on our list last year, and this year it’s number 13. A thoroughly British heritage brand, Burberry is about as timeless as it gets. Founded in England in 1856 by a then 21-year-old Thomas Burberry, the brand originally focused on outerwear before branching out into other pieces of clothing and accessories.
Today, it’s one of the most recognizable brands, especially through its logo and signature plaid pattern.
- Burberry has been playing with more experimental styles in recent years, which is one reason people love their eyewear.
- They focus on a mix of classic models and statement pieces like oversized, logo-heavy models.
Burberry makes a range of women’s, men’s, and unisex styles. Popular men’s styles include the head-turning Burberry BE4291 and the Burberry BE2108 eyeglasses. Top women’s styles include the sleek and subtle Burberry BE4216 sunglasses and Burberry BE2073 dark Havana glasses.
12. Smith Optics 🔼
Smith Optics has jumped up on our list; it was number 16 last year, and this year it’s number 12. Smith Optics is still going strong on this year’s list, thanks to its sporty and practical styles, which make it popular with customers. Created in 1965 by an orthodontist and skier named Dr. Bob Smith, it’s a brand that’s risen to eyewear fame.
The style of Smith’s eyewear is subtle, wearable, and perfect for daily activities. They’re designed to be practical, so there are comfortable nosebridge pieces, mirrored lenses, and lightweight designs to pick from.
- Smith Optics makes eyewear that’s ideal for sports, including skiing and cycling. In fact, the founder started out by making homemade goggles, which he sold from his van.
- From humble beginnings, Smith Optics continues to innovate sports eyewear.
Smith Optics creates unisex styles as well as men’s and women’s models. Top unisex options include the versatile Smith Tempo and the Smith Parallel 2, both of which showcase the brand’s sporty aesthetic.
11. Balenciaga 🔼
One of the most fabulous and at times controversial brands on the list is Balenciaga. Balenciaga was number 20 on our list last year, and this year it has jumped all the way to number 11. Founded in 1917 by Cristobal Balenciaga, the brand has reinvented itself numerous times.
Designer Demna was credited with revitalizing the brand with lots of out-there fashion, but he stepped down in 2025. It remains to be seen if the brand’s style and direction will change drastically.
- Countless celebrities, including Kendall Jenner and Kim Kardashian, have worn the latest styles.
- The latest collection featured huge bug-eye sunglasses, which were worn on the red carpet by singer Rosalía.
- The sunglasses, in particular, have become a staple of Balenciaga because of their futuristic statement shapes.
EZContacts has a broad range of Balenciaga eyewear in women’s, men’s, and unisex styles. Sought-after styles include the angular cat-eye Balenciaga BB0097S and the sporty Balenciaga BB0003S sunglasses. Cool men’s styles include the Balenciaga BB0164S sunglasses and the Balenciaga BB0376O glasses.
10. Versace ↔️
You can’t go wrong with Versace! The brand was revolutionary when it was founded by Gianni Versace in 1978. It brought Italian glamor to an international stage. The brand was number 10 on our list last year, and it has kept that ranking this year.
Unapologetically bold, bright, and sparkly, the brand’s eyewear has remained a staple accessory for celebrities and consumers alike.
- In 2025, Donatella Versace, the sister of Gianni Versace and the brand’s longtime Chief Creative Officer, stepped down. It will be exciting to see what comes of the brand in 2026 with these new changes.
- The brand loves adding its big, gold Medusa logo to its eyewear, making it stand out.
Versace makes women’s, men’s, unisex, and kids’ styles! Top styles include the unisex Versace VE4361 sunglasses, the Versace VE2245 women’s sunglasses, and the Versace VE2199 men’s sunglasses.
9. Tom Ford 🔼
The king of cool, Tom Ford, has cemented his status in the fashion world as one of the best American designers. Tom Ford has jumped up on our list, going from number 11 last year to number nine this year.
He was credited with turning Gucci around and transforming it into a multi-billion-dollar business while serving as creative director. He then started his own brand, Tom Ford, in 2005. With this brand, he has focused on tailored menswear and cool accessories, including eyewear.
- The brand has become famous for its scents, sharp clothing, and classy eyewear.
- Tom Ford glasses are timeless and made to impress.
- Common shapes include square and aviator frames.
Tom Ford creates a wide range of women’s, men’s, and unisex eyewear. Some popular styles are the men’s Tom Ford BRONSON FT1044 sunglasses and the Tom Ford FT5542-B glasses. For women, top styles include the Tom Ford FT0952 and the Tom Ford FT5537-B glasses, which feature dark Havana frames.
8. Céline 🔽
Céline has gone down one spot on our list; it was number seven last year, and this year it’s number eight. Céline is a quintessentially French brand that has made the French-girl aesthetic popular globally. Created by Céline Vipiana in 1945, Céline’s focus has been on wearable, subtly chic clothing. The brand has become popular with those seeking understated styles.
- The eyewear features a mix of the Céline logo in gold and more subtle styles such as the ‘three dots’ collection.
- The focus is more on classic shapes, such as the cat-eye, and demure colors, such as black.
- Céline is a hot pick for celebrities like Miley Cyrus and Gigi Hadid.
Top styles include the unisex Céline METAL TRIOMPHE CL40235U and the Céline 3 DOTS CL4004IN sunglasses. Most Céline eyewear sold at EZContacts is unisex, offering styles for everyone.
7. Miu Miu 🔼
Miu Miu is often referred to as ‘Prada’s little sister’ because it was founded by Miuccia Prada, who is also the creative director of Prada. It’s gone up one spot on the list, from number eight last year to number seven this year.
The brand is often more playful and youthful than Prada, with eyewear featuring pops of color and fun designs.
- Miu Miu eyewear features plenty of tinted lenses and chunky, bold frames.
- Funky styles have been spotted on a young generation of it-girls, including Bella Hadid and Kendall Jenner.
- Miu Miu frames show off a funky post-Y2K style that complements modern women who want to experiment with fashion.
Popular styles include the women’s Miu Miu MU 01XV glasses and the Miu Miu MU 52YS sunglasses.
6. Gucci ↔️
One of the most famous designer brands globally, Gucci has cemented its status as a go-to fashion house for rappers, reality stars, models, and everyone in between. Gucci has kept its number six ranking from last year.
Gucci was founded in 1903 in Florence, and it’s one of Italy’s biggest brands. The brand started by selling leather goods, and it has exploded over the past century.
- Their eyewear is confident, fun, and made to get you noticed.
- Gucci loves its big gold logos, so its eyewear is perfect for bling lovers, but there are also more subtle styles.
- There are lots of references to Old Hollywood, with oversized shapes and tinted lenses.
Top women’s styles include Gucci GG0038ON glasses and the Gucci GG0876S sunglasses. Popular men’s models include Gucci GG0748S sunglasses and the epic Gucci GG1221O glasses.
5. Costa Del Mar ↔️
Just like last year, Costa Del Mar is number five on our list. It’s no surprise Costa Del Mar is so high up on both years’ lists! The brand was created by a group of fishermen in 1983. Yes, they’re made by those who know and love the water, making them perfect for fellow water activity enthusiasts!
- Costa shades are all about the outdoors lifestyle; they’re built with durability and protection in mind.
- The shapes and colors are mostly classic, featuring rectangular and aviator styles, but they’re made to be lightweight, comfortable, and 100% UV-protected.
- They also feature polarized lenses to protect your eyes from the glare of the water.
Popular men’s styles include the Costa Del Mar 6S9018 RINCON 06S9018 and the Costa Del Mar 6S9017 BRINE 6S9017 sunglasses. Top women’s styles include the Costa Del Mar 6S4006 and the Costa Del Mar 6S9041.
4. Maui Jim ↔️
Maui Jim has kept its number four ranking on our list. Maui Jim started on the beaches of Hawaii. It was a side hustle of founder Jim Richards, who created the first Maui Jim shades to filter the harsh Hawaiian sun without diluting the beautiful colors.
As the story goes, the brand was fittingly taken over by boat captain Walter Hester in 1991 and went on to be distributed across the States.
- Maui Jim makes sunglasses that are stylish and protective, perfect for days on the beach.
- Polarized lenses and the wrap-around shape make them glare-resistant, ideal for sunny locations.
Most of Maui Jim’s styles are unisex; some popular styles include the Maui Jim HO’OKIPA and the Maui Jim LIGHTHOUSE sunglasses.
3. Ray-Ban ↔️
Ray-Ban has kept its third-place ranking on our list from last year! A fun fact most people would never suspect… Ray-Ban was actually founded by none other than eyewear company Bausch + Lomb in 1937.
They started as practical military shades and transformed into a cultural icon (partly thanks to Tom Cruise in Top Gun). Today, they’re owned by the eyewear mega manufacturer EssilorLuxottica.
- The Ray-Ban x Meta smart glasses have found huge success and show no signs of slowing down in popularity.
- The brand has also started experimenting with more wraparound, sporty shapes, so 2026 may bring some new Ray-Ban icons.
Many of Ray-Ban’s most popular styles are unisex, such as timeless models like the Ray-Ban RB3016 CLUBMASTER and the Ray-Ban RB2140 WAYFARER. You can’t go wrong with these legendary models.
2. Prada 🔽
Last year’s number one now takes the number two spot, but it’s not a far fall. Prada is still one of the most sought-after eyewear brands.
Prada is a classic European brand that was founded by two brothers, Mario and Martino, in Milan in 1913. It has remained a sought-after brand for more than a century.
The brand has released styles that are on trend, such as yellow-tinted sunglasses, while also sticking to its signature cat-eye and rectangular shapes.
- New Prada styles also include more futuristic shapes and wraparound styles, showing that Y2K fashion isn’t slowing down.
- The new Devil Wears Prada movie is set for release in 2026, which will likely further boost the brand’s it-girl status.
Popular styles include the Prada PR 65ZS, which features yellow-tinted oval lenses, and the Prada PR 17WS, which has chic cream frames. Top men’s styles include the Prada Linea Rossa PS 05YS sunglasses and the Prada PR 08ZV glasses.
1. Oakley 🔼
The top brand this year is none other than Oakley!
Oakley was founded by an adventurous American named Jim Jannard in 1975. Since then, it’s gone on to create sought-after eyewear inspired by American motorcycle culture.
Oakley has shifted from number two last year to number one this year, proving that being a specialized eyewear brand is working for them. In fact, they are such a catch that they’re one of the crown jewels of the Luxottica eyewear empire, which also owns Ray-Ban and manufactures eyewear for major fashion brands.
They don’t make shoes or handbags; instead, Oakley focuses solely on durable, practical, and, of course, stylish eyewear.
- 2025 was a huge year for the brand, as they released the Oakley x Meta collaboration.
- They also created a bespoke pair of glasses for Tom Cruise for his stunts in the Mission Impossible movie.
The classic styles include the unisex Oakley SUTRO OO9406, the men’s Oakley FLAK 2.0, and the women’s Oakley OO4079 FEEDBACK.
TL;DR
2026 is a huge year for eyewear. There are new creative directors at numerous fashion houses, including Balenciaga and Gucci. It is also set to feature some major trends, like the return of bug-eye sunglasses, so watch this space!
- The top 26 brands for 2026 have seen some exciting shifts and new entries, including Linda Farrow, Bottega Veneta, Swarovski, and Kate Spade.
- This year’s list shows that specialized eyewear brands, including Costa, Ray-Ban, Smith’s, Maui Jim, and Oakley, continue to dominate the market.
- Fashion brands, including Balenciaga, continue to push eyewear fashion on the runway and red carpet. Balenciaga’s latest collection features a range of funky oversized sunglasses, and they have already been spotted on Rosalia.
- The winner is Oakley, shifting from last year’s second spot to claim victory. Considering they made innovative, custom eyewear for Tom Cruise and released new Meta collaborations, it’s no surprise that Oakley continues to succeed.
Shop the top eyewear for 2026 here.
