THE JOURNAL
Fashion goes in cycles. As we grow older, we can count the passage of time in the number of trends that come around again, like the rings of a tree. With each resurgence is a reinvention, an opportunity to build upon what has come before and gather inspiration and influences to create something new. It is what creativity and good design are all about.
We were not surprised to see coloured lenses creeping back onto runways and red carpets. The all-black sunglasses and subtle frames that have been favoured for so long are due a refresh. This year is all about colour, vivacity and a healthy dose of escapism. Tinted shades are typical of the throw-back eras we’re seeing reflected in contemporary fashion, namely the 1970s and 1990s/early 2000s. While the former was all about tobacco-tinted Americana and Sir Elton John’s wild rainbow specs, the latter can be divided into two camps: heavy frames and citrus tints for the indie Britpop crowd, or frameless diamanté-encrusted two-tone lenses in shades of pink and baby blue for the RnB stars.
In 2023, designers are embracing the full gamut, from chic and subtle smoky lenses to neon statement frames. As well as elevating an outfit, coloured lenses can lift your mood and transport you to a time or place with a touch of cinematic drama. Take the plunge into your own personal chromatic fantasy with one of these pairs.
01.
The Garrett Leight California Optical sunset shades
Pop on a pair of classic and versatile Byrne Sun sunglasses from Garrett Leight California Optical to be whisked away to the West Coast in an instant. The tortoiseshell acetate frames hold rosy lenses that will coat even the greyest day with a warm glow reminiscent of the low early-evening sun burning over Venice Beach, where the brand was founded in 2011.
02.
The TOM FORD retro revamp sunglasses
TOM FORD is a byword for sophisticated, gently vintage-inspired style. These gunmetal-silver square frames have sepia-toned lenses that will lend an air of classic cinematography to your daily proceedings. Imagine yourself wafting around Cannes or Rome in the early 1970s, even if you’re only popping out for a pint of milk.
03.
The Jacques Marie Mage x Umit Benan Midnight Cowboy pair
Anyone who has ever read Mr Cormac McCarthy’s masterpiece, All The Pretty Horses, will have a clear vision of the night sky over the Texan plains. This pair of D-framed durable black acetate sunglasses, exclusive to MR PORTER, take inspiration from the Old West. The silver-tone detailing at the temples and the deep blue lenses will have you swearing you can see the sparkle of the stars and feel the cool breeze blowing through the cactus fields.
04.
The Dior Eyewear Miami Vice shades
The 1980s might not immediately come to mind, but the decade was not without its share of tinted sunnies. Reflective and mirror treatments were particularly popular, much like the shimmering sea blue of these prominent gold frames from Dior Eyewear. Team them with a camp-collar shirt or casual tailoring and transport yourself to a time of carefree abundance.
05.
The LOEWE oversized orange pair
The Spanish brand LOEWE is the perfect pick for a pair of statement sunglasses. Its accessories heritage is being pushed even further by its creative director, Mr Jonathan Anderson. This pumped-up frameless example in lightweight tangerine acetate is giving us louche Mallorcan vibes. If you can’t escape to a picturesque stone villa that tumbles into turquoise sea, these are the next best thing.
06.
The Native Sons Y2K specs
Purple shades, purple rain… You may think a lavender lens immediately calls to mind His Royal Badness, but there is no third eye here. Instead, get ready to hack into the main frame with the wavy gold-plated hexagonal Chino from Native Sons. Pair with wide-leg trousers, a vest and open shirt, and great ready to button bash your Blackberry on the bus.
07.
The CELINE HOMME
Tinted glasses don’t have to mean going all out. These vintage-inspired round frames from CELINE HOMME, with their subtle dark blue lenses, are a lesson in effortless Parisian cool. Don these with a trench and disappear into a dark alleyway, or a dimly lit restaurant, to escape reality for ever.