Why I Faked an Eye Exam (And Why I Still Love Glasses Today)
Back in elementary school, I convinced myself I needed glasses. I sat through that eye exam with total confidence, nodding along as the doctor flipped through lenses. Within a week, I had a pair of Coach frames with tiny hearts on the sides. They looked adorable. There was only one problem: I could not see through them. Less than a week after that, I admitted the truth, and we returned the glasses. Both of my parents have worn prescription frames for as long as I can remember, so maybe I wanted to feel connected to them. Or maybe I just loved the idea of eyewear as a style accessory. Whatever the reason, that childhood phase never really faded. All these years later, I still love eyewear. I cannot leave the house without sunglasses. If I forget them, I spend the whole day saying, “I wish I had sunglasses.” My current daily pair is a set of bug-eye Chimi Giadas that have long since sold out, and I also rotate in the sportier Split frames. My dream additions include styles from Celine, Chanel, Khaite x Oliver Peoples, and Prada. For prescription glasses, I reach for the Bonnie Clyde Baby frames in black or the Meg from Jimmy Fairly. I have tried on the famous Miu Miu oval opticals in SoHo and the Akila Alien frames in Silver Lake. Every time I put on a new pair, I remember that eight-year-old version of myself who just wanted to look cool. These are my current best eyewear picks for anyone building a thoughtful collection.
7 Best Eyewear Picks to Elevate Your Collection
After years of testing, trying on, and obsessing over frames, I have narrowed down the styles that consistently impress. These seven best eyewear picks cover both sunglasses and optical glasses, classic shapes and bold statements. Each one brings something different to the table.
Miu Miu Oval Optical Glasses
The Miu Miu oval optical glasses have reached cult status for good reason. Every fashion insider seems to own a pair or wants one. I walked into the Miu Miu store in SoHo specifically to try them on, and the hype made sense immediately. The oval shape sits somewhere between retro and futuristic. It flatters a wide range of face shapes because the curves soften angular features while adding structure to rounder faces.
These frames come in several colorways, but the classic tortoiseshell and black versions sell out fastest. The acetate feels substantial without being heavy, which matters if you plan to wear them for long workdays or reading sessions. They also work well as a non-prescription fashion frame. You can request clear or blue-light lenses from your optician and keep the original Miu Miu frame.
One reader scenario: imagine someone who has worn rectangular glasses for years and wants to try something more modern. The oval shape offers a gentle transition. It is not as extreme as a round Lennon-style frame, but it breaks away from the rectangle habit. The Miu Miu oval sits comfortably in that middle ground, making it one of the most versatile best eyewear picks currently available.
Celine Triomphe Oversized Round-Frame Acetate Sunglasses
Celine has mastered the art of quiet luxury, and the Triomphe oversized round-frame sunglasses embody that ethos. The frame is thick but not clunky. The round shape leans slightly toward the exaggerated side without crossing into costume territory. The Triomphe logo sits subtly on the temples, letting the silhouette do most of the talking.
These sunglasses block a generous amount of sunlight thanks to the oversized design. Your entire eye area stays shaded, which reduces squinting and protects the delicate skin around your eyes. Statistics show that about 80 percent of visible aging on the face comes from sun exposure, so investing in quality sunglasses is both a style decision and a skincare strategy.
For anyone who lost a pair of expensive sunglasses and wants to start fresh with a curated collection, the Celine Triomphe is an anchor piece. It pairs well with tailored coats, casual linen dresses, and everything in between. The acetate resists scratches better than thinner plastic frames, though you should still store them in a hard case. I keep mine in a microfiber pouch inside my bag at all times.
Chimi Giadas (Bug-Eye Sunglasses)
My personal everyday pair is the now-sold-out Chimi Giadas in a bug-eye shape. These frames cover an impressive amount of real estate on the face. The exaggerated lens size creates a dramatic, almost cartoonish effect that somehow still looks chic. I have received more compliments on these than on any other pair I own.
The bug-eye trend has cycled in and out of fashion for decades. In the 1960s, Jackie Kennedy wore oversized sunglasses that shielded half her face. In the 2000s, celebrities like Nicole Richie and Mary-Kate Olsen brought back the look. Now, brands like Chimi, Urban Outfitters Vintage, and Damson Madder have revived the style for a new generation. The key is finding a pair that fits your face without sliding down your nose. Look for adjustable nose pads or a snug acetate bridge.
If you cannot find the Chimi Giadas in stock, consider the Damson Madder Sporty Wrap Around Sunglasses or the Urban Outfitters Vintage Skip Bug Eye Sunglasses. Both offer that same bold, face-covering aesthetic at different price points. The Chimi version remains my personal gold standard, but the alternatives deliver similar energy.
Akila Alien Frames
Zoë Kravitz has made the Akila Alien frames her go-to, and after visiting the Akila store in Silver Lake, I understand why. These frames have an unconventional shape that defies easy categorization. They are not quite round, not quite cat-eye, and not quite geometric. They exist in their own category, which is exactly the point.
I walked into that store skeptical. The Alien frames look unusual on the shelf. But when I put them on, something clicked. They lift the face in a way that feels sculptural. The thick temples balance the wide lens area, creating a silhouette that photographs beautifully. The quality of the acetate also impressed me. It feels dense and polished, not brittle or cheap.
Now, I want a pair of those Alien frames. They represent a bigger lesson about eyewear shopping: sometimes the frames that look strange on display end up looking incredible on your face. If you are someone who has worn the same style of glasses for years, visiting a store like Akila and trying on something unexpected can reshape your entire perspective. The Alien frames are one of the most daring best eyewear picks on this list, and they reward the adventurous shopper.
Bonnie Clyde Baby Frames in Black
The Bonnie Clyde Baby frames went viral a few seasons ago, and the hype has not faded. I wear the black version myself, and I reach for them whenever I want a classic optical look with a slight edge. The Baby frame borrows its proportions from archival 1950s designs, with a smaller lens height and a pronounced brow line.
These frames work particularly well for people who want a vintage-inspired silhouette without looking costumed. The black acetate makes them easy to pair with any outfit. They also transition seamlessly from professional settings to casual weekends. I have worn them to meetings, brunch, and even the grocery store. They never feel out of place.
One challenge with smaller frames like the Baby is ensuring they do not pinch your temples or sit too high on your nose. Bonnie Clyde offers adjustable nose pads on many of their styles, which helps customize the fit. If you have a wider face, the Baby might feel slightly narrow. Try them on in person or order from a retailer with a generous return policy. For those who prefer a similar look with a larger lens, Bonnie Clyde also makes a Big Sister version that expands on the same design.
Jimmy Fairly The Meg
I have been testing the Meg from Jimmy Fairly, and it has earned a permanent spot in my rotation. Jimmy Fairly operates with a direct-to-consumer model that keeps prices reasonable without sacrificing style. The Meg frame features a rounded square shape that flatters most face types. The acetate comes in multiple color options, including a translucent tortoiseshell that looks great in natural light.
What sets the Meg apart is its weight. It is light enough to wear all day without leaving marks on your nose, but it does not feel flimsy. The hinges are sturdy, and the overall construction suggests it will hold up for years. For someone building their first designer eyewear wardrobe who feels overwhelmed by the variety of shapes and brands, the Meg offers a safe but stylish entry point.
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You can order the Meg with prescription lenses, blue-light-blocking lenses, or clear lenses if you simply want the frame as a fashion accessory. The price point is significantly lower than brands like Celine or Miu Miu, which makes it easier to experiment with multiple shapes. I recommend trying the Meg in tortoiseshell first, then adding a second color later if you love the fit.
Prada Symbole Sunglasses
Prada has a long history of producing sunglasses that become instant classics. The Symbole sunglasses continue that tradition with a distinct triangular logo at the temples and a slightly elongated lens shape. They feel modern without being aggressive. The lens offers full UV protection, and the frame holds up well against daily wear and tear.
What I appreciate about the Prada Symbole is how they balance fashion and function. The temples are thick enough to stay secure on your face during walks or errands, but they do not look bulky. The logo is visible but not overwhelming. For readers who want a designer logo on their sunglasses but prefer something understated, the Symbole hits the sweet spot.
Prada also offers a range of lens colors, from classic black to mirrored silver and even gradient options. If you live in a sunny climate, the mirrored versions reduce glare more effectively than standard tinted lenses. I have been eyeing the black frame with mirrored silver lenses for my next purchase. The Symbole design fits seamlessly into the list of best eyewear picks for anyone who values heritage brands with contemporary styling.
Caring for High-End Eyewear to Make It Last
Investing in designer frames means you want them to last. The most common cause of damage is improper storage. Tossing sunglasses into a bag without a case leads to scratches and bent temples. Always use a hard case when you are not wearing them. If your case is too bulky to carry daily, at least use a microfiber pouch and keep the glasses in a secure pocket.
Cleaning is another area where people make mistakes. Using paper towels or your shirt fabric can create micro-scratches on the lenses over time. Instead, rinse the lenses with lukewarm water to remove dust, then apply a drop of mild dish soap to each lens. Rub gently with your fingertips, rinse again, and dry with a clean microfiber cloth. This method removes oils and grime without damaging the coating.
For acetate frames, avoid leaving them in hot cars or direct sunlight for extended periods. Heat can warp the acetate, causing the frames to lose their shape. If your frames do become misaligned, take them to an optician for adjustment rather than bending them yourself. A professional adjustment costs little and prevents permanent damage.
Why Celebrity Influence Drives Eyewear Trends
Zoë Kravitz wearing Akila Alien frames did not just boost sales for that brand. It sent a message that unconventional shapes are desirable. Celebrities act as living mood boards. When someone with Kravitz’s fashion credibility chooses a frame, it validates that frame as a style investment.
Recent data shows that about 37 percent of consumers have purchased a fashion item because they saw a celebrity wearing it. Eyewear follows that same pattern. The Miu Miu oval glasses gained traction partly because editors, influencers, and celebrities wore them consistently. The Celine Triomphe sunglasses owe some of their popularity to the brand’s association with Hedi Slimane’s refined aesthetic.
If you want to stay ahead of trends without chasing every viral moment, focus on the celebrities whose style aligns with your own. If you dress like Zoë Kravitz, the Alien frames make sense. If your style leans toward classic French minimalism, the Celine Triomphe or Bonnie Clyde Baby frames will serve you better. The goal is not to copy anyone. It is to use celebrity choices as inspiration for your own best eyewear picks.
Mixing and Matching Multiple Frames for Different Occasions
Building an eyewear wardrobe is not about buying one perfect pair. It is about having options. Just as you rotate handbags or shoes, you can rotate frames depending on your mood, outfit, and activity. My own collection includes the Chimi Giadas for sunny days when I want a bold statement, the Bonnie Clyde Baby frames for optical needs and polished looks, and the Jimmy Fairly Meg for everyday versatility.
If you are starting from scratch, aim for three core pieces: one pair of oversized sunglasses, one pair of classic optical frames (with or without prescription), and one pair of trendy or statement frames. This gives you coverage for casual, professional, and dressy settings. As your collection grows, you can add sporty wrap-around styles, vintage-inspired cat-eyes, or unusual shapes like the Akila Alien.
A common challenge is storing multiple frames without tangling them or losing them. A dedicated sunglass case organizer or a drawer with dividers keeps everything visible and protected. Some people use a wall-mounted display to showcase their collection. Whatever method you choose, the key is knowing where each pair is so you can grab the right one when you walk out the door.
Eyewear is one of the few accessories you wear on your face every single day. It frames how people see you, literally and figuratively. Taking the time to curate a thoughtful collection pays off in confidence, comfort, and style. Whether you are starting with one pair or expanding an existing wardrobe, these seven best eyewear picks provide a strong foundation. Each one tells a different story, and together they cover every occasion life throws at you.
