Shield Sunglasses Are The Unexpected Trend Of Fall/Winter 2023

Last summer when Kim Kardashian stepped out in a pair of sporty Balenciaga shades, it seemed as if the sport-inspired eyewear trend had peaked. From Kim to Rihanna and Hailey Bieber, everyone loved goggle-looking sunglasses with wraparound details. The bigger the better.

This fall, the sporty sunglass look has transformed into what we’re calling the return of the shield. A cousin of the sporty look but with bolder volumes and sleeker touches, shield sunglasses are trending for FW23.

The more classic version of mask sunglasses is very recognizable: thin rims or completely rimless, with one mono-lens that covers the whole eye area. Versions this year combine those styles with more modern takes, including acetate rims and molded nose pieces like these Balenciaga Skin XXL Cat ones.

Shield sunglasses have two microtrends that are clear for fall. More minimalist dressers might be aiming for an all-black mask while others will find their match in this season’s collection of metallic shield shades. Whatever your style, we’ve curated something for everyone.

Read on to discover which styles we’ve already got on our wishlist for the season ahead.

A perfect choice if you’re looking to spice up your regular all-black shades. Change up the silhouette and you have a look that becomes instantly elevated.

Oversized options from Balenciaga and Gucci will fill up your designer arsenal but don’t forget to pay attention to the latest from independent brands like Jacques Marie Mage and Retrosuperfuture.

Best elevated piece: JMM’s Benson shades

Best unconventional look: Balenciaga’s Skin XXL Cat sunnies

Best indie look: Huma’s Lee sunglasses

Best high fashion piece: Bottega Veneta’s BV1217S shades

While trending color palettes for FW23 are on the warm and cozy side, like mocha browns and deep reds, metallics are also making a comeback.

Metal touches are glamorous and playful, as was proven at Beyoncé’s recent birthday gig in L.A. The singer encouraged attendees to don their shiniest disco-approved pieces. Shield sunglasses have also been one of Beyoncé’s fashion calling cards during her Renaissance tour; custom looks have been paired with matching shades at almost every performance.

Shield frames with metal arms are also usually rimless, putting all the focus on the silhouette for an even bolder feel.

Best studded lens: Gucci shield sunglasses

Best pink shield sunglasses: Alexander McQueen’s AM0313S frames

Best gradient: Saint Laurent SL 364 MASK sunglasses

Best aviator-inspired look: Prada’s shield frames

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