20 Best Sunglasses for Women, According to Fashion Insiders 2024 | Glamour

Nov 05, 2024

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

We’ll let you in on a secret: Putting together great outfits really comes down to the accessories. And the best sunglasses for women, along with functional bags and cute jewelry, make the most important extras in every wardrobe. A great pair of sunnies comes with an effortlessly cool feel and is endlessly wearable, whether you love a retro aviator, sharp cat eye, micro-mini frame, oversized silhouette, or any other trendy sunglasses shape.

There’s a reason so many A-listers are almost always seen in sunnies, regardless of the season or the time of day—peep Jennifer Lopez’s signature aviators and Dakota Johnson’s retro shades. From on-trend and Beyoncé-approved oversized aviators to classic cat-eye sunnies from Amazon, treat yourself to a new pair of the best sunglasses for women, many of them tested and reviewed by our editors and fashion-insider friends.

Nordstrom

If these bestsellers are good enough for Kate Middleton, they’re good enough for us. Channel her classic Wimbledon look with her go-to Ray-Bans, which might just be the brand’s most iconic frames. “I’d be lying if I said I didn’t first buy these Ray-Bans because I saw Kate wear them, but they’ve since become the go-to pair in my overcrowded arsenal, thanks to the light acetate frame and 100% UV protection,” says Glamour commerce director Brie Schwartz. “Through the years, these durable sunglasses have withstood scratches, accidental dips in the ocean, and countless drops, yet they still look as good as the day I bought them. They also don’t pinch or give that dreaded behind-the-ear pain, which is another bonus.”

Lens width: 54 mm / Polarized: No / UV protection: 100%

Save on the best sunglasses for women with these Amazon promo codes and Nordstrom promo codes.

Free People

When you’re torn between rocking round sunglasses or aviator sunglasses, this Free People pair is for you. “Eyes are the first feature people see on your face, and I love it when eyewear stands out,” says photographer Flo Ngala. “These shades, riffing on classic aviators, check all my boxes: They’re bold, funky, and available in a retro red. The best part is they can be worn indoors as a lightly tinted, nonprescription option—a 10/10 accessory!”

Lens width: Unlisted / Polarized: No / UV protection: Unlisted

Save on the best sunglasses for women with these Free People promo codes.

Amazon

“I’ve never been a fan of dramatic cat-eye sunglasses—too kooky for me, personally—but a subtle riff on the shape happens to be flattering on my small face,” says Glamour digital director Perrie Samotin. “This pair has become my holy grail and the material thing people ask me most about. I can’t even tell you the number of times I've been stopped on the street or asked by friends about who makes them, to which I always tell the truth and offer a link. No gatekeeping here! For an under-$20 buy, they’re surprisingly sturdy and stylish, and they elevate whatever I’m wearing. I’ve dabbled in both the white and tortoiseshell versions, and while I adore both, the jet-black pair is the one I keep coming back to.”

Lens width: 51 mm / Polarized: No / UV protection: 100%

Save on the best sunglasses for women with these Amazon promo codes.

Ssense

Bonnie

Right now it’s ovals or bust in terms of trendy sunglasses shapes. “I might be just going to the bodega, but when I put on my Bonnie Clyde sunglasses, I’m the biggest pop star blocking out the paparazzi on Hollywood Boulevard,” Glamour junior designer Channing Smith says. “These glasses give me instant celebrity status and fit snugly on my face. And they come with a scratch-resistant coating that doesn’t make me feel guilty when I throw them in my bag.”

Lens width: 54 mm / Polarized: No / UV protection: 100%

Save on the best sunglasses for women with these Ssense promo codes.

Madewell

Square (or more accurately rectangular) sunglasses are a classic style that feels vintage and contemporary all at once. “I was bopping around Madewell the other day when I found myself trying on every pair of sunglasses they had,” says Glamour editor Lindy Segal. “These Hailey Bieber–ish rectangular frames are so far out of my comfort zone—I’m an aviator girlie—but I kept gravitating to them and—oops!—they came home with me. Impulse buy? Sure. But no regrets.” Oh, and the only branding is on the inside of the arms.

Lens width: Unlisted / Polarized: No / UV protection: 100%

Save on the best sunglasses for women with these Madewell promo codes.

Nordstrom

Leave it to a stylist to consider how well a pair of investment sunglasses will complement everything in her wardrobe. “What I love the most about these cat-eye frames is their versatility in complementing any outfit,” says fashion stylist Elise Sandvik. “They add a touch of sophistication while maintaining understated elegance.” Plus, they’re lightweight and comfortable, two critical factors for Sandvik.

Lens width: 51 mm / Polarized: No / UV protection: 100%

Save on the best sunglasses for women with these Nordstrom promo codes.

Farfetch

If you love a lightly tinted frame, feast your eyes on this cool cat-eye from Lapima. “I feel like everyone has been obsessed with small lenses for so long, and I just love how this is a very chunky, substantial frame that really makes a statement,” says Alex DiCapo Patel, director of community and partnerships at Argent. “It’s still a classic shape, especially in black or brown, but the yellow lens tint provides a unique flare. You can tell they are also just very well made—the quality is unmatched.”

Lens width: 47 mm / Polarized: No / UV protection: 100%

Save on the best sunglasses for women with these Farfetch promo codes.

Shopbop

Revolve

There are countless designer sunglasses brands to choose from. But for Sara Larson, founder of the Larson Project, Bottega Veneta is choice. “These frames are the perfect addition to any look: denim on denim, a gown if you fancy, or your birthday suit. I love how these accent my face and make me feel empowered any time of day.” The ultradark sunglasses lenses are a serious mood yet legitimately functional for light and sensitive eyes, too—we love us some high-fashion function.

Lens width: 52 mm / Polarized: No / UV protection: 100%

Save on the best sunglasses for women with these Shopbop promo codes.

Amazon

“Sunglasses are usually one item I invest in, but I bought these cat-eye sunglasses from Amazon to give them a test run before buying the Celine shades they’re inspired by,” shares Glamour contributor Andrea Navarro. “Honestly, I liked them so much I might not even buy the ‘real’ thing. For a pair under $20, these aren’t as flimsy as you’d expect, and despite throwing them in a super-cheap drawstring pouch and letting them roam around my purses, they haven’t gotten scratched or damaged in any way. I’m also a big fan of the width for comfort, and they don't give me any pain behind the ears or on the bridge of my nose.”

Lens width: 52 mm / Polarized: No / UV protection: 100%

Save on the best sunglasses for women with these Amazon promo codes.

Lower Case

Between my classic style and being all about sun protection (where are my fellow shade goddesses at?!), I almost exclusively wear this pair of oversized square frames from Celine. However! I love the retro feel of this smaller-scale silhouette from the Brooklyn label Lowercase. They feel as sturdy and luxe as my go-to Celine style and have proven to be incredibly durable (my not-always-so-dextrous toddler has pulled them off my face several times, adorably but not so gingerly trying them on) with a timeless feel, which is a quality I always seek in sunnies. The tortoise shell is also a delightful change-up from the drama of my glossy black Celine frames. They remind me of an iconic pair of Persol sunnies my mom has owned for years and has never let me steal.

Lens width: 43 mm / Polarized: No / UV protection: 100%

Warby Parker

Round sunglasses look good on pretty much everyone, and this pair is proof of this while also being one of the best women’s polarized sunglasses for driving. “These superlight frames are so comfortable on I’ve worn them for hours without any behind-the-ear or nose bridge pain, and I love that the lenses make the world look a little cheerier,” says Glamour’s Schwartz. Other staffers feel the same way: “I owned a similar (now discontinued) silhouette from Warby Parker, and my friends and I would marvel at how they complemented everyone’s face shape,” says Glamour shopping editor Jake Henry Smith. With standard sunglasses lenses, the sunnies start at $95; you can add polarization (“Worth it,” he says), a scratch-resistant coating, and single-vision or progressive lenses for additional fees.

Lens width: 130–140 mm / Polarized: Yes / UV protection: 100%

Revolve

Aussies know their way around a good pair of sunglasses, like Australia-designed label, Banbé. “I love the shape and color of these acetate frames,” Jasmine Pierce, founder of JLP Consulting, says. “They feel equally fun and elegant, which is why I have them in black and this butterscotch hue, the latter being my go-to in warmer months and on vacation. They’re also at a reasonable price point, which suits my habit of losing or breaking countless designer sunglasses (let’s hear it for an elevated look without worrying too much about the cost of losing them). They also feel really secure, which is tricky for my narrower face shape, which I need when running or playing tennis (a few of my friends keep telling me that Oakley’s are very trendy, but I much prefer this more feminine option).”

Lens width: 53mm / Polarized: No / UV protection: 100%

Save on the best sunglasses for women with these Revolve promo codes.

Shopbop

Like certain handbags or jewelry, some sunglasses become your default pair, which is what these Krewe shades have become for freelance writer Nicole Kliest. “I was in New Orleans last year and swung by Krewe’s boutique on Royal Street in search of sunglasses that were versatile enough to wear every day, but that still felt distinct,” she tells Glamour. “After several try-ons, I landed on their Astor style. I like that these are sort of a hybrid between round, oval, and cat-eye shapes—particularly because I struggle with finding a silhouette that complements my heart-shape face. And aside from aesthetics, the high-quality of the lenses is really top-notch, and my eyes always feel well protected when wearing them.”

Lens width: 53 mm / Polarized: No / UV protection: 100%

Save on the best sunglasses for women with these Shopbop promo codes.

Ssense

We can’t resist a bit of drama in the accessory department. “I love how these Kenzo sunglasses complement my face shape,” Christina Caruso, designer of her namesake jewelry label, tells Glamour. “It’s not too overpowering. They exude bold sophistication while maintaining a cool, understated vibe. They effortlessly enhance my style and boost my confidence. Plus, they pair perfectly with my gold Christina Caruso jewelry.”

Lens width: 51 mm / Polarized: No / UV protection: Unlisted

Save on the best sunglasses for women with these Ssense promo codes.

Nordstrom

If your sunglasses collection is grounded in classics, how about a bolder pair to shake things up? “Anyone who's met me this summer knows I'm having a major 'green moment,” says Akshie Jhaveri, founder of the lab-diamond brand Grown Brilliance. “From my summer sandals to my watch strap, everything in my closet has moved to this super cool military green, so why should my sunglasses be left out? These Loewe Inflated Butterfly Sunnies give me that instant fashion icon vibe. Whether I'm rushing to work or chilling by the pool, these frames make me feel like I walked out of a glossy fashion magazine! My face structure is round, and very few sunglasses suit me without making me look silly. I love that these have a cool, slightly exaggerated butterfly shape that's not too over-the-top but still makes a bold statement. And to top it all, they are strong enough to last through my crazy day of clumsiness, multi-tasking, and hectic schedules.”

Lens width: 47 mm / Polarized: No / UV protection: Yes

Save on the best sunglasses for women with these Nordstrom promo codes.

Nordstrom

Designer sunglasses with polarized and gradient lenses? Sign. Us. Up. “I have an oval face, and these sleek sunnies have a subtle cat-eye that helps frame my face nicely and provide good coverage from the sun,” says Lisa Liu, vice president at L&Co. “They’re lightweight with a timeless design that resembles a Wayfarer but with a more modern feel that makes them both comfortable and chic.”

Lens width: 50mm / Polarized: Yes / UV protection: 100%

Save on the best sunglasses for women with these Nordstrom promo codes.

Colors In Optics

Metal sunnies have a nostalgic feel, and that’s everything right now. “The best part of these frames is that they are durable and also lightweight—my kids have bent them back and forth,” Alex Toccin, cofounder of clothing brand Toccin, tells Glamour. “The gold frame with brown lens allows for a neutral look but still adds a touch of fashion, and I can simply throw them on.”

Lens width: 53mm / Polarized: No / UV protection: Unlisted

Elisa Johnson

If you live for the thrill of being asked about your eyewear, opt for a pair of sunnies by emerging designer Elisa Johnson. “I wear sunglasses all the time and am always looking for comfortable and lightweight shades,” says Maile Schmidt, founder and designer of her namesake footwear brand. “Elisa Johnson is one of my favorite brands by far. I own three to four pairs and have been wearing them religiously for a few years. My favorite style is the Jane because I love the lighter lens color. I find them much easier to wear throughout the day, and I always get compliments.”

Lens width: 54 mm / Polarized: No / UV protection: Yes

Lexxola

These wrap-around sunnies are a fun and lightweight option for a tinted look with a ’90s feel. “I wouldn’t say I have the boldest taste in sunglasses, but these Lexxolas—admittedly from a few years ago, but very beloved!—are just the right amount of statement-making for me,” says Argent editorial director Gina Marinelli. “I love the slight cat-eye shape, less-opaque lenses, and chunkier frame. They also wrap around my temples for better sun protection, which I really appreciate. It’s the pair I always wear to give an outfit a bit more of a look, even if it is just trousers and a tank.”

Lens width: 58.5 mm / Polarized: No / UV protection: 100%

Nordstrom

When I say I'm a huuuge nerd about sun protection, I mean it. No hyperbole here. I barely look out a window without slathering myself in SPF. As for my eye protection, I'm all about shield sunglasses, and one of my go-to brands for this style is Smith. Whether for running, tennis, or a hot girl walk in the park, I reach for one of the several pairs I own to ensure my light blue eyes feel comfy and are adequately protected outside. They're super-duper lightweight and fit securely even when I'm dripping beads of sweat—I especially like how the temple tips wrap around my ears without uncomfortably digging. Beyond the protection and fit, they come in so many fun colors that make me feel like a '90s workout queen, even if the rest of my workout outfit is a neutral shade of black, beige, or grey. And since these are designed for performance, visibility is always top-notch, even on overcast days and the few times I've unexpectedly been caught in inclement weather.

Lens width: 135mm / Polarized: No / UV protection: 100%%

While it’s fun to focus on aesthetics in women’s sunglasses, there are important features to look for, suh as proper eye protection as a nonnegotiable—otherwise, your eyewear is just an accessory. But which sunglasses give the best eye protection? For starters, ones with both UVA and UVB protection (look for labels or stickers indicating UV 400 or 100% UV protection to be adequately shielded). However, shape and lens gradient are also factors. “Typically, the larger the frame silhouette is, the better, ensuring more sun protection," says San Diego–based Jennifer Chinn, OD. You don’t have to go completely oversized or to goggles (which some prefer over eyeglasses), the optometrist explains, but the micro-sunnies trend is not as protective.

“The purpose of a pair of sunglasses is to protect you from ultraviolet rays and bright light, especially while outdoors for long periods,” Dr. Chinn tells Glamour, also advocating for a hat when outside in the middle of the day as “sunglasses will not protect you from sunlight coming from directly above you.” She says wrap-around sunglasses benefit people in environments where the light reflects off other surfaces to produce more glare, offering protection from light coming from the sides while being very popular picks for athletes like bikers and volleyball players.

There’s another big question when shopping for the best women’s sunglasses for eye protection: are polarized sunglasses better for your eyes? Dr. Chinn says yes, particularly for those who spend a lot of time outdoors and are light sensitive, experiencing vision discomfort and strain from various types of glare, like the sunlight bouncing off the water or driving into the sun in the middle of the afternoon. "Polarized lenses only emit about 50% of the light coming towards you so that you can see ‘through’ the glare, have better contrast perception, color vibrance, and your eyes are more comfortable,” she explains.

While brands like Ray-Ban and Maui Jim make stylish polarized sunglasses, you may find a pair of frames with darker or gradient lenses that suit your style better. But be cautious of choosing sunglasses for these reasons alone. “A common misconception is that the darker the sunglass lens, the more protected you are from UVA and UVB rays, which isn’t true,” says Dr. Chinn. “The darker tint of the lens is typically more comfortable for people who are light sensitive, and it helps to shade your eyes more, but it doesn’t have any added benefit to filtering out UV rays. You can have a completely clear lens that still provides 100% UVA and UVB protection.” While various tinted lenses can enhance your visual environment and help keep your eyes comfortable outdoors, the lens color also does not indicate the amount of UV protection you get.

As for gradient lenses, Dr. Chinn says they provide more protection from glare from above and are more versatile. “They can be worn in many different types of environments, whereas polarized lenses are best only when outdoors,” she tells Glamour. “Some people may find it hard to read their cell phones or e-readers while outdoors wearing polarized sunglasses.”

Lenses are clearly crucial in shopping for the best sunglasses, but for some it can come down to which sunglasses brand is the best. For many, the best means pricey. But are expensive sunglasses really better? “Typically, more expensive sunglasses will have better-quality lenses made from better lens materials and have unique colors and style features added on, such as mirrors, gradients, and tints,” says Dr. Chinn. While the quality of the sunglasses frame typically also correlates with the price, from a protection standpoint, Dr. Chinn says, “As long as you have sunglasses that protect you 100% from harmful UVA and UVB rays, your eyes will thank you.”

Each Glamour editor and contributing fashion insider test-drove each pair of sunglasses, leading to their inclusion in this round-up. These styles are tried-and-true favorites that were worn for at least two weeks and many for years.