Fact: eyeglasses can be as MUCH of accessory fashion statement as your jewelry, watch, bag, or footwear. You just need to find the right shape, style, fabrication, and color that suits you best, since unlike the other items mentioned, you will have less of a choice regarding wearing them on an every day basis. Luckily, the prices of cool frames and lenses have come down so so much in recent years that you can easily afford to keep several pairs on hand, so go ahead and get that frivolous pair!
My favorite design, which I’ve been wearing now for seven years and looks great on every one is a slightly over sized gradient pair of shades. The gradient can be subtle or stark, and while choosing a brown, black, or grey gradient certainly makes the frames more versatile, again, don’t be afraid of a punch of bold color to make a great fashion statement.
My favorite gradient eye glasses, featured above, from clockwise:
Eyefly Blackburn Cove in Olive Gradient, $94
Derek Cardigan 7016 in Brown Pink Fade, $89
Prada PR 03QV in Red/Burgendy, $265
39DollarGlasses.comRetro Eyewear 100 Eyeglasses in cognac/blue smoke, $44
Warby Parker Zagg in Tennessee Whiskey, $95
In this look:
Prada PR 03QV in Red/Burgendy, $265
Jules Smith Americana Classic Earrings
Mossimo Two-Toned Fashion Scarf – Gray/Ivory
Cool eyeglasses, such as gradient frames, can certainly transcend the office and look great at everything from cocktail parties to red carpet galas. Above, I’ve styled a look (can you tell I’m thinking about summer already?) that keeps the colors at the top and the bottom (eyewear and footwear), while the jewelry is kept clean and defined.
A few overall tips that I would recommend when wearing gradient frames, or really, glasses of any kind:
watch for your brows –– make sure the frames rest below them, and spent an extra 30 seconds making sure your brows are groomed, filling in with some powder and/or pencil for extra definition.
balance tones — like anything, make sure there is a color balance between brights and neutrals around your face; if your frames are a vibrant shade, go easy on the eye makeup, but maybe perk up the lipstick. Also, don’t load up too many bright colors via a scarf or top when your frames are a pop of color. Last, remember skin tone and eyes do come into play, so compliment and contrast accordingly; avoid colors that may acerbate skin issues such as pigmentation, rosacea, or acne, and avoid frame colors the same hue as your eyes or hair.
don’t be afraid to return frames –-our faces are all different, so if you get a new pair of frames, particularly from online and you don’t feel confident in them, send them back! Most sites have lenient policies regarding returns/exchanges, or tools to upload your photo and virtually “try them on” first!
