Classics, Club Kids, and Boho Chic—5 Sunglasses Trends That Show You're Fashion Savvy in 2026

      At Who What Wear UK, you can always rely on our in-depth and accurate reporting regarding the upcoming major runway trends. We were among the pioneers to proclaim florals for spring as truly innovative, and if you began wearing a funnel neck jacket this season, you may have spotted it here first. Now that we’ve covered every print, color, shoe, and bag poised to take center stage this season, it's time to delve deeper. With warmer days approaching, there's no better moment to examine one of the most underrated yet essential accessories in our repertoire: the sunglasses trends you need to be aware of for 2026. Just like ready-to-wear collections, designers presented an array of styles, shapes, and colors for spring/summer 2026. Some evoke charming nostalgia, while others hint at potential future trends. It's safe to say that amidst the cat-eye, rectangular, circular, and oversized styles, there is something to match every personality.

      As it turns out, the key sunglasses trends for 2026 can be classified not only by shape but also by the wearer. If your style leans towards the minimalist and clean aesthetic reminiscent of Jil Sander that gained popularity in the '90s, a classic or oval pair of sunglasses would be a great fit. Conversely, if you enjoy print mixing, eclectic layering, and have been described as "loud," Loewe's aviator 2.0 may catch your eye. Curious about which sunglasses trend aligns with your style? Keep scrolling to view and shop the styles we are certain you'll see everywhere this year. Your outfit won't feel complete without them.

      The Biggest Sunglasses Trends of 2026:

      1. The Classicist

      Style Notes: Timelessly chic, classicists aren't drawn to fleeting trends; they seek sunglasses that complement everything in their wardrobe. Ready to invest in enduring styles, you won’t see them in anything overly trendy; instead, they gravitate toward sleek designs in their preferred color (hint: black). The only pieces that might pull them away from their beloved Ray Ban Wayfarers and Celine Triomphes are this season's soft cat-eye and "squoval" styles showcased on the runways of Coperni, Magda Butrym, Courrèges, and Givenchy.

      Shop Black Sunglasses:

      - Le Specs Unreal Rectangular Sunglasses – an excellent choice for chic yet affordable eyewear.

      - Linda Farrow X Jacquemus Pilotis Sunglasses in Black – a timeless option.

      - Saint Laurent SL 872 Erin Rectangular Sunglasses – features an elegant silhouette.

      - Celine Journey Round-Frame Acetate Sunglasses – blacked-out lenses always exude refinement.

      2. The Alt Insider

      Style Notes: According to the alt insider, the future is radiant—very radiant. Never one to blend into the crowd, this experimental fashionista is likely to don 2026's most contentious sunglasses trend: oversized, brightly colored aviators that encase the face. Always one to have several pairs in rotation for different styles and moods, alt insiders will appreciate the vibrant color palette and sculptural shapes seen at Loewe, Miu Miu, and Pierre Cardin as a playful way to add some drama to their look.

      Shop Aviator Sunglasses:

      - Celine Eyewear Triomphe Stamp Aviator Sunglasses in Orange – a potential new street style favorite.

      - SAINT LAURENT EYEWEAR SL 902 Howl D-Frame Acetate Sunglasses – a perfect shade of green for monochromatic outfits.

      - PRADA Irregular-Frame Acetate Sunglasses – featuring beautiful lenses and tortoiseshell design.

      - Joseph Atlas Aviator Sunglasses – also available in a creamy neutral for those who prefer subtler tones.

      3. The Boho Spirit

      Style Notes: With the resurgence of boho chic following Chemena Kamali's breakout at Chloé, it was only a matter of time before one of the trend's signature accessories returned: large, seventies-style bug-eye sunglasses. Free spirits and romantics will adore the ethereal, rose-tinted lenses (as showcased at Zimmermann and Chloé), while vintage enthusiasts will be pleased to see larger square and circular frames reemerging this year. Complete your look with a flowing blouse, flared jeans, and a stylish pair of platform shoes.

      Shop Oversized Sunglasses:

      - Linda Farrow Celia Sunglasses in Truffle and Dusk – guaranteed to earn you compliments.

      - JACQUES MARIE MAGE Monarch Round-Frame Tortoiseshell Acetate Sunglasses – a favorite among sunglasses connoisseurs.

      - Cutler and Gross Kensington 1424 Aviator Sunglasses – a distinctive addition to any outfit.

      - Chloé Rectangle Sunglasses – Chloé has nailed the look perfectly.

      4. The 90's Minimalist

      Style Notes: The nineties are making a