HARDCORE GLARE

The appeal of a season dedicated to leisure and pleasure is undeniable. How could it not entice the majority? Holiday anticipation, long evenings, the sun's warmth on your skin, and clear blue skies (something the Brits wouldn't know about) make summer the headline act we await. For the proceeding weeks, looser silhouettes and lightweight fabrics go hand-in-hand, but the paramount element of any look is the accessory straddled across the bridge of your nose. 

There are few fashion items so inherently linked to a particular season. While a good wool coat may be associated with winter, nothing is as ubiquitous as a pair of sunglasses in the summer. Whether you prefer an iconic style to ultra-contemporary, sunglasses have rebuffed the age-old argument of visual appeal over function. With Gen Z and Millennials promoting an increase in sun protection awareness, the eyewear market is more competitive than ever. Engineered lenses and the most diverse frames the industry has seen have led this once-underestimated accessory to exceed its previously considered mundane qualities. 

Sunglasses convey an air of mystery, which is a byproduct of power. They are items that carry cultural value and influence of modern technology. By shading the eyes, we can give the impression of being removed from disarray, either genuinely unconcerned or entirely in control. They provide anonymity, creating a captivating barrier between you and onlookers. A sleek tinted lens evokes allure, subtly shrouding the wearer in even the most public settings. An adorned temple with a recognisable logo connotes ideas of sumptuous living, sparking thoughts of grandeur and opulent excellence. 

Regardless of your preferred style, wearing sunglasses can make you feel untouchable in a world where everything is socially monitored, analysed and observed. This staple-style accessory is helping us to hold on to the last of our privacy. 

Discover the most sought-after sunglasses for this summer from Gentle Monster, Acne Studios, Bottega Veneta, Walter Van Beirendonck, Our Legacy and more.