6 eyewear styles we will only take off in 2026 while we sleep

We rarely think about sunglasses while the days are grey and gloomy, but with the first rays of sunshine, which we all hope will appear as early as possible, they become the accessory we reach for first. Major fashion houses know this very well, which is why their Spring and Resort 2026 collections are filled with new eyewear models. On the other hand, those who wear prescription glasses do not pay much attention to seasons, but that does not mean they are not constantly searching for frames that best suit their face and complement their style. On the contrary, prescription glasses are a piece that those who need them consider quite seriously. After all, we only take them off when we sleep.

Judging by the runways, the trends are diverse, and every lover of this timeless accessory can find a new favourite pair among them. From thin metal frames presented by Stella McCartney, Gucci, and Chanel, among others, to bold models with tinted lenses, the green ones in Tom Ford’s vision look phenomenal, sensual cat eye shapes in contemporary interpretations, and all the way to futuristic Balenciaga forms and retro silhouettes proposed by Celine and Gucci. Below, we bring a list of trends that will define the aesthetics of sunglasses and prescription eyewear in 2026.

#1 Thin metal frames

Thin metal frames have dominated eyewear trends for several seasons now, and the same will be true this warm season. They are elegant and understated, yet highly effective and easy to style across different looks. Stella McCartney, Chanel, and Gucci all followed this trend, each presenting thin metal frames in their own distinct way.

#2 Glasses with tinted lenses

Glasses with tinted lenses are an especially striking fashion accessory, and they will be more than enough to elevate any warm season look. Haider Ackermann designed a brilliant version with green lenses for Tom Ford, while Michael Rider created an orange tinted take for Celine.

Related: The prescription frames redefining street style right now

#3 Bold retro frames

Retro glasses are usually defined by large, eye catching frames, which is why they tend to have a fairly niche audience, a group I proudly belong to. Riding the wave of nostalgia, they returned for the Spring Summer 2026 season, with Celine and Gucci showcasing them in their collections.

#4 Cat eye shapes

Cat eye glasses have long been considered a symbol of seduction and sex appeal, and they are a style that never truly goes out of fashion. Still, today we rarely wear them in the versions popular in the 1950s. Fashion houses such as Valentino, Chloé, and Stella McCartney have redesigned the cat eye shape, presenting a contemporary version for Spring Summer 2026. Judging by their popularity on the runways, this could be one of the most sought after models in the year ahead.

#5 Futuristic forms

Fashion loves to play with contrasts, so alongside retro models, futuristic shapes also dominate the runways, appearing as though they were designed for a time yet to come. Balenciaga and MM6 Maison Margiela presented striking, space inspired models that only the boldest will dare to wear.

#6 Atypical shapes

Although classic frames remain the most popular choice when it comes to sunglasses, this year will be marked by unusual shapes seen on the runways of Miu Miu and Prada. A great way to elevate any outfit with minimal effort.