Do you use your eyewear to inspire confidence, refine your personal style, and express your personality? Eyeglasses aren't just for vision correction - they are the perfect accessory, whether you want to showcase your inner fashionista or enhance your appearance.

Sleek and fashionable eyeglasses allow you to elevate your everyday style with a single statement piece. From bright and bold Caroline Abrams to modern and minimalistic Eyevan 7285s, you deserve to have eyewear that is both unique and on-trend.

Keep reading, and we'll share the best eyewear styles for 2024 and beyond.

Key Takeaways

• Many trendy glasses in 2024 were popular in the past, such as cat-eye frames, retro frames, or Y2K-inspired frames.
• Thick frames or oversized glasses put a modern twist on classic styles and act as a gorgeous and striking fashion piece.
• Classic eyewear styles usually feature clean lines, minimalistic designs, and monochromatic colors. The "quiet luxury" trend perfectly encapsulates this timeless allure.
• Other eyewear trends include clear frames, athleisure, and hexagonal frames.

See Related: How To Choose Eyeglasses For An Active Lifestyle

Eyewear Trends: Most Popular Styles & Shapes

Your eyewear is for more than vision correction. Whether you have a couple of go-to pairs or a vast collection of designer eyewear, you can use your glasses to express your individuality, increase your confidence, and showcase your personal style.

Fashion trends have come and gone over the years, and eyewear trends are no different. Many "new" styles have already been popular in the past and have recently come back into the spotlight! Take, for example, cat-eye glasses, which first took off in the 1950s.

#1. Cat-Eye Glasses Frames

Cat-eye glasses are considered a classic retro style with a vintage charm. The exaggerated upswept frame is flattering and beautiful, and this unique design helps to highlight your natural beauty and face shape.

Cat-eye frames were first designed by Altina Schinasi in the 1930s. She registered her patent on the "Harlequin" frame and went on to create eyewear that was glamorous and romantic, easily captivating the hearts of American housewives and film stars.

Nowadays, luxury eyewear brands like Caroline Abram craft gorgeous and sleek eyewear that beautifully represents the fierce and feline nature of classic cat-eye frames. Many Caroline Abram frames are bright and creative, often functioning as a blend of classic styles and modern allure.

#2. "Quiet Luxury" Glasses

"Quiet luxury" is a refreshed trend that is all about refined simplicity, sleek sophistication, and understated elegance. Quiet luxury eyewear is made with quality materials and subtle details. The timeless appeal and classic style of quiet luxury eyewear make it a favorite for those seeking a refined and luxurious look.

Independent designers like Barton Perreira, Eyevan 7285, and ic! berlin are just a few luxury brands that create eyewear that successfully captures the quiet luxury trend.

For example, ic! berlin crafts high-quality and long-lasting frames with lightweight materials like stainless steel or acetate. These materials and styles are a foundational part of the quiet luxury trend.

#3. Maximalist

Maximalist eyeglasses typically feature bright colors, intricate details, lavish embellishments, and bold shapes. Maximalist frames act as ideal statement pieces or fashion accessories and often function as the focal point of a look.

Luxury brands like Anne et Valentin, Caroline Abram, and Native Sons are all popular sources of maximalist eyewear and are constantly releasing new and exciting maximalist pieces.

#4. Minimalistic

On the opposite of the spectrum are minimalistic eyeglasses. Minimalistic eyeglasses usually consist of clean lines, subtle details, and monochromatic colors. Minimalistic frames are typically focused on the functionality of the eyewear.

They are often made with durable and quality materials that are comfortable, lightweight, and effortless.

For those seeking a sleek and classic look, minimalistic frames are the way to go. You can easily find the perfect pair of frames from a number of independent designers, such as Eyevan 7285, Ørgreen, and Mykita.

#5. Clear Glasses Frames

Transparent frames are made from clear materials like acetate, TR-90, or nylon. Clear frames have been a rising trend, as they have the unique ability to blend seamlessly with different styles or fashions. They're a common choice for individuals who want their eyewear to complement their facial appearance without demanding too much attention.

Other Popular Eyewear Styles & Shapes

There are many unique styles of eyewear that have recently experienced a peak in popularity. The beauty of this fact is that it paves the way for fashion-forward individuals to discover styles and shapes they otherwise wouldn't have come across.

Whether you're drawn toward sleek and classy designs or bold and bright creations, your eyewear choice can have a profound positive impact on your self-image, confidence levels, and overall fashion sense.

Here are a few more eyewear trends for 2024 to explore.

Y2K-Inspired

The bold shapes, bright bling, and unique shapes of Y2K fashion started back in the early 2000s. This includes features like metallic finishes and tinted lenses. Y2K fashion has had a recent resurgence, which has also had an effect on the eyewear industry.

Thick Frames

Thick-rimmed frames can be round or geometric and often are bright or eclectic colors that stand out. The bright and bold nature of thick frames makes it an ideal choice for those after a maximalist look.

Retro

Retro glasses take inspiration from the 1970s and 1980s and include classic styles like aviator glasses or oversized glasses. Retro glasses often feature a vintage charm and timeless appeal that are widely adored.

Color Gradients

Some glasses feature color gradients, which put a creative and artistic twist on many modern styles. These frames feature two or more colors that are blended into each other to create a unique color transition.

Athleisure

Athleisure eyewear blends high functionality with classic designs to create stylish frames for everyday wear. They are often durable, lightweight, and casual and are ideal for men and women with an active lifestyle. These dynamic and comfortable frames can keep up with you no matter where life takes you.

Hexagonal

Geometric frames are a constant trend and add a modern edge to classic designs. Hexagonal frames offer a unique aesthetic that sets them apart from other geometric frames. The popularity of hexagonal frames is a testament to the growing interest in unconventional and artistic eyewear.

Oversized

Oversized glasses are known for their large lenses and bold aesthetic, often taking up a large portion of the face. They beautifully suit a variety of face shapes and can add personality and style to any look.

Tortoise Shell Glasses

Tortoise shell glasses are a classic and beautiful eyewear trend that can act as a versatile and stylish accessory. This marbled pattern is easily recognizable and beautifully attractive and can work for both casual days and special occasions.

Flat Top Frames

Flat top frames typically have a straight line along the top of them, which gives them a distinctive modern yet retro look. This style can be meshed with others, such as oversized lenses. This sophisticated yet edgy design is ideal for those who love classic and contemporary styles. 

The Bottom Line

Your eyeglasses act as an extension of your personal style. As the first visible accessory to the outside world, your eyewear sends a message about who you are.

By wearing the best eyewear trends of 2024, you can showcase your knowledge and passion for fashion, all while elevating your style and representing your personality!

Bonus: How to Properly Clean Your Glasses

Frequently Asked Questions

What glasses are most flattering?

The most flattering glasses will depend on your face shape and facial features.

Typically, oval or round glasses are better for those with angular features, as they add softness and balance to the face. On the other hand, cat-eye glasses are better for those with narrow or high cheekbones.

Should eyeglasses cover the eyebrows?

Typically, eyeglasses should only cover half of the width of your eyebrows. Of course, this may vary slightly depending on your glasses style.

For example, if you wear oversized glasses, they may take up more of your eyebrows.

If you are curious about the best glasses styles and shapes for your facial features, Oculus Eyecare offers personal styling appointments to connect you with the perfect pair of frames. Since 2013, our team of optometrists and opticians has been helping individuals and families across Seattle see and be seen in a new way.

Keep Reading: What Are Bifocals And How Do They Work?

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Oculus Eyecare is Seattle’s premier optometry practice and optical boutique for those looking to see and be seen in a new way. Located in South Lake Union on Denny Way, Oculus Eyecare offers comprehensive eye care services and exams for individuals and families in Seattle. Click here to schedule an appointment or a personal styling session. To stay connected and learn more, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X/Twitter.