Save vs. Splurge: The Editor-Approved Guide to Sunglasses at Every Price Point
This summer, sunglasses are making a sartorial statement. Here are our editor-approved picks.
Sunny days are calling, so consider this your cue to upgrade your eyewear game. More than just a mere summer staple, the perfect pair of sunglasses adds instant polish and attitude to your looks all year long. In this editor-curated save vs. splurge guide, we decode which frames are worth the investment and where you can find fabulous styles that deliver the luxe look for less.
From itsy-bitsy frames to immersive wraparounds, discover the FASHION’s editors’ picks for the most stylish luxury pairs and the best affordable sunglasses below $200.
Deidre Marinelli, Publisher
Where To Save: Yesglasses Hagen Tinted Sunglasses
These glasses scream summer chic. The yellow lens is super playful and I love the oversized frame.
Where To Splurge: Versace Medusa Horizon Sunglasses
While I must admit that I am a big fan of any Versace accessory, I am especially loving these oversized shield-like sunglasses. Featuring gold-tone Medusa hardware, these sunnies are a mix of classic Versace opulence and modern edge.
George Antonopoulos, Senior Creative and Fashion Director, FASHION and Events
Where To Save: Simons Messyweekend Anthony Angular Sunglasses
I love these frames from Simons with their soft-tinted lens in a rectangular solid vintage yellow gold frame. Perfect for high summer styles and will pair perfectly with neutral or head-to-toe white looks.
Where To Splurge: DiorXplorer S3I Rectangular Sunglasses
Lately, I’ve been very specific about frame shapes and I’m finding that rectangular styles seem to be my go-to. These DiorXplorers are perfect for any look and work seamlessly with my mostly black wardrobe.
Liz Guber, Editor-in-Chief
Where To Save: Zane AKL Polarized Sunglasses
Anytime I feel like my sunglasses collection could use a new addition, I pop into Zane on Toronto’s Queen West and always walk out with a pair that’s fun, functional and made by an up-and-coming brand. This joyful cobalt pair by Aussie brand local supply hits the spot.
Where To Splurge: Swarovski Dark Blue Crystal Sunglasses
I reach for this pair of sunglasses most days—I love a minimal frame that doesn’t overwhelm the face. The design here is actually deceptively genius in the way the arms cut across the lenses and nose bridge. The colour is a perfect smoky blue that works year-round.
Annika Lautens, Fashion News & Features Director
Where To Save: Meller Malaika Sunglasses
Usually, I’m more of a cat-eye girlie, but there’s something about this flat oval frame that I find intoxicating. Chalk it up to the Hailey Bieber effect, but I think they would look ideal accessorized with a suit and tie.
Where To Splurge: Linda Farrow x Jacquemus Ovalo Oval Sunglasses
When Linda Farrow and Jacquemus first collabed in 2024, I prayed it wasn’t a one-off—and luckily, I was right. While picking a favourite is nearly impossible (they’re all so good!) I’ve found myself returning to these oval leopard print frames again and again.
Natalie Michie, Social Media & Market Editor
Where To Save: Bonlook Perico Sunglasses
There’s a decidedly vintage appeal to wire specs, and this pair from Canadian brand BonLook has all that character and more. The subtle round shape is versatile, while the deep green tinted lenses add a touch of kitsch to any plain summer uniform.
Where To Splurge: Jenny Bird The Y2K Sunglasses
For me, Y2K fashion is not a fleeting fad—it’s a lifestyle. These sleek sunnies, with their futuristic shape and chrome frame, capture the more-is-more spirit of accessorizing, which I love about the decade.
Cessi Treñas, Head of Digital & Social
Where To Save: Sunnies Studios Billie Sunglasses
Filipino brand Sunnies Studios just gets it. Look at their branding, storefronts or Instagram feed and you’ll get what I mean—there’s an inexplicable air of cool that comes with the Sunnies experience. This pair is a testament to this. With dark gray lenses, sleek silver hardware and a retro-inspired shape, it’s a (surprisingly inexpensive) style statement.
Where To Splurge: Miu Miu Rectangular Sunglasses
When I imagine sunglasses that could go with every single one of my outfits, it’s this Miu Miu pair that I envision. The boxy tortoiseshell-pattern frame and rosy lenses just tick all the right boxes.
This article first appeared in FASHION’s Summer 2025 issue. Find out more here.
With files from Stephanie Davoli
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