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Tiny Sunglasses Are Over! Here Are 5 Trendy Shades to Wear in 2020

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Let’s be honest, the tiny sunglasses trend was a contentious one. Most people hated it, some understood that it was a nod to The Matrix and exactly three human beings could actually pull off frames made for an ant. Well, we’ve got some good news: The pendulum is swinging in terms of sunglasses trends and big is back, baby! From the updated take on a Wayfarer to a sleek acetate aviator, here are five new sunglasses trends to shop for the year ahead. 

5 Glasses Trends That’ll Take You into 2020 and Beyond


the updated wayfarer
Daniel Zuchnik/Getty Images

The Updated Wayfarer

A little bit angular and a little bit of a statement, the updated Wayfarer is probably the easiest trend to slip on and step out the door in this season, especially in a solid shade. Reach for black-on-black for a glam take on the classic or consider green lenses for a vintage spin on the style that’s actually been kicking around since 1956. Alternatively, if you’re a purist, you could always just refresh your current pair of Ray-Bans.

Get the look: Féroce ($110); Ray-Ban ($203); Acne Studios ($208); Fendi ($385); Celine ($390)

90s inspired
Daniel Zuchnik/Getty Images

’90s-inspired

OK, so glasses haven’t gotten XL oversized just yet. If you do prefer petite frames, consider jumping on the ’90s bandwagon where the styles range from rectangular to oval-shaped and generally sit higher on the face highlighting your cheekbones. Bonus points if your selected frames come with a bit of gold hardware.

Get the look: SunglassUP ($13); Le Specs ($59); Bonnie Clyde ($84); Raen ($140); Versace ($155)

acetate aviators
Christian Vierig/Getty Images

Acetate Aviators

Aviators are a classic American style (seriously, they were invented to protect the eyes of pilots during World War I), but you can put your own twist on these rounded shades. In particular, do that by opting for a pair rimmed in acetate. The clunkier these are, the better, so feel free to slip on a pair that’s a bit funkier than your everyday style. We promise they’ll still look good with a T-shirt or cute blouse.

Get the look: Urban Outfitters ($15); A New Day ($15); Versace ($150); Krewe ($255); Christian Roth ($325)

dainty tortoiseshells
Christian Vierig/Getty Images

Dainty Tortoiseshells

Notice how we’re calling these “dainty,” not “tiny”? There’s a difference. Find a pair of rounded rectangular tortoiseshell sunnies and we promise, your mom (and even your grandmother) will approve. These are elegant, timeless and basically like the pearl necklace of sunglasses—as in, they have the innate power to make any outfit look a little more polished.

Get the look: Urban Outfitters ($16); Le Specs ($69); Illesteva ($220); Krewe ($255); Dior ($425)

graduated cateye
Christian Vierig/Getty Images

The Graduated Cat-eye

Put the sharp corners away. The cat-eye is still hanging around for 2020, but this style is fuller and rounder than its feline cousin. This one looks best with graduated lenses, so seek out those ombrés in shades of black to gray or brown to tan. And don’t be afraid to try this silhouette out in an unexpected color, like navy blue.

Get the look: Quay Australia ($55); Warby Parker ($95); Chimi ($149); Westward Leaning ($175); Andy Wolf ($450)



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Fashion Editor

From 2019-2021 Dena Silver held the role of Fashion Editor covering product recommendations, trends, and what you should be shopping this season.