By Optician Ayodele Deborah
Sunglasses are not just a functional accessory to protect your eyes from the sun—they are also a key element in elevating your style. Whether you're dressing up for a formal event or keeping it casual for a day out, the right pair of sunglasses can add that perfect finishing touch to your outfit. However, choosing the right sunglasses to match your attire can sometimes be tricky.
At SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikoyi and Ikeja, Lagos, we understand the importance of both fashion and eye health, which is why we offer a wide range of stylish and high-quality sunglasses for men & women to suit every occasion and outfit. In this guide, we will explore how to match sunglasses with your outfits, helping you make the best fashion statement while keeping your eyes safe.
Below are some tips on how to match sunglasses with your outfits based on occasion, face shape, color coordination, and more.
1. Match Sunglasses with Your Outfit Style
The type of sunglasses you choose should complement the overall style of your outfit.
Here’s how to pair sunglasses based on different types of outfits:
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Casual and Streetwear Outfits: For relaxed, everyday looks such as jeans, t-shirts, and sneakers, opt for sunglasses that match the laid-back vibe.
Aviators are classic and timeless, ideal for casual streetwear.
Wayfarers are versatile, pairing well with almost any casual look.
Round frames are perfect for adding a retro, artistic touch to your ensemble.
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Business and Formal Outfits: When dressing professionally, your sunglasses should reflect sophistication and elegance. Choose sleek, minimalist designs that enhance a sharp look.
A semi-rimless design, offers a blend of vintage and contemporary appeal.
Rimless or thin metal frames are subtle yet classy, perfect for professional environments.
Rectangular frames work well with structured, tailored outfits.
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Sporty and Athleisure Outfits: For workout or activewear, select sunglasses that are not only stylish but also functional.
Wraparound sunglasses offer maximum protection and suit a dynamic, athletic style.
Shield sunglasses are great for those who prefer a bold, sporty look while keeping sun protection in mind.
Polarized lenses reduce glare, which is perfect for outdoor activities like running or hiking.
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Bohemian and Artistic Outfits: For boho, free-spirited, or creative looks, sunglasses can make a big statement.
Oversized frames add drama and flair to your outfit, making them ideal for creative or laid-back styles.
Tinted lenses in colors like pink or yellow give a whimsical touch to a bohemian look.
2. Color Coordination
Sunglasses can make or break an outfit, depending on how well they coordinate with your clothing. The key is to choose frames that either complement or contrast with your outfit’s color palette.
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Neutral Frames for Versatility
Black, brown, and tortoiseshell frames are timeless and can be worn with almost anything. They are perfect for everyday looks and add a refined, understated element.
Silver and gold frames pair well with metallic accessories like jewelry, watches, or handbags, adding a sophisticated touch.
Clear or translucent frames are modern and go well with almost any outfit, offering a subtle but fashionable appearance.
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Bold and Bright Frames
For a fun, bold statement, choose sunglasses with colorful frames. These work best when they contrast or complement the colors of your outfit.
Red sunglasses pair well with navy blue or white outfits, offering a striking contrast.
Blue or green frames can add a fresh pop to neutral outfits or match with similarly cool-toned clothing.
Mirror lenses are ideal for adding a futuristic edge to your look. Consider pairing them with solid colors or monochrome outfits.
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Patterned Frames
If you’re wearing a patterned outfit, it’s best to choose a simpler frame style to avoid clashing.
If your outfit features bold prints, like florals or stripes, go for solid color frames that won’t compete with the pattern.
If your outfit is plain, patterned frames, such as tortoiseshell or multi-colored designs, can add a fun focal point to the look.
3. Consider Your Face Shape
Different face shapes look better with certain sunglasses styles.
To find the perfect match for your features, consider the following guidelines:
- Round Faces: Angular frames like square or rectangular sunglasses work well to add structure and balance out the roundness of your face.
- Square Faces: Soften the sharp angles of your face with round or oval sunglasses. These shapes help create balance by contrasting with strong jawlines.
- Oval Faces: Almost any style works with oval faces. To highlight your face’s natural proportions, try oversized or geometric frames.
- Heart-Shaped Faces: Sunglasses with bottom-heavy frames, like aviators or round frames, help balance a wider forehead and narrow chin.
- Diamond Faces: Cat-eye sunglasses complement high cheekbones and angular features, adding a flattering curve to the face shape.
4. Matching Sunglasses with the Occasion
Choosing sunglasses also depends on the occasion. Here’s how to match your shades to different events:
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Everyday Wear
For daily outfits, versatile sunglasses that go with most of your wardrobe are ideal.
Classic black or tortoiseshell frames work for both casual and semi-formal outfits.
Aviators are always a good choice for a cool, laid-back vibe.
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Vacations and Beach Outfits
When you're on vacation or at the beach, it’s time to have fun with your sunglasses. Opt for larger, more dramatic styles or brighter lenses.
Oversized frames offer both style and sun protection, perfect for lounging by the pool or walking along the beach.
Mirrored or brightly colored lenses add a playful touch and are great for a tropical getaway.
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Evening Events
For formal or evening occasions, subtle and sophisticated sunglasses should be your choice.
Metal frames in silver, gold, or black can add an elegant touch to evening wear.
Avoid overly casual or sporty styles to maintain a polished look.
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Pairing Sunglasses with Accessories
Sunglasses should complement, not compete with, your other accessories.
Here are some tips for coordinating sunglasses with your other accessories:
Jewelry: Match the color of your sunglasses' frames with the metal of your jewelry. For example, gold frames go well with gold jewelry, while silver frames pair nicely with silver pieces.
Hats: If you’re wearing a hat, such as a fedora or sun hat, oversized sunglasses work particularly well to create a cohesive, chic look.
Bags: Neutral or classic frames can work with any handbag, while bold sunglasses can be paired with solid-colored bags for a pop of contrast.
Conclusion
Matching the right pair of sunglasses with your outfit is all about balancing style, occasion, and personal flair. Whether you're aiming for a classic, sporty, or trendy look, the perfect sunglasses can elevate your ensemble while providing essential protection for your eyes. At SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikoyi and Ikeja, Lagos, we offer a wide variety of sunglasses that cater to different face shapes, styles, and needs.
By considering factors such as frame shape, color, and lens type, you can easily find sunglasses that complement both your wardrobe and lifestyle. Visit us today to explore our selection and discover the ideal pair of sunglasses that will enhance your look and safeguard your vision.