The spring/summer 2024 season is unapologetically accessories mayhem. For brands like Balenciaga and Miu Miu, ostentatious charms and keyrings were attached to bags of all sizes. For Ferragamo, chunky belts were back, hugging Maximillian Davis’s garments cohesively. Large earrings were the talk of the season as they were brandished along the catwalks of brands like Valentino and Saint Laurent.
And then there’s a summer staple—sunglasses. In our excruciatingly sunny weather, a pair is a must-have accessory in anyone’s rotation to shield your eyes and elevate your style. And the runway seems to agree too. For Louis Vuitton, futuristic visors were the name of the game, juxtapositioning themselves from its staunchly summer and breezy outfits that they were often paired with on the runway. Showcased during Maison Margiela‘s runway that season were futuristic eyewear pieces in collaboration with Gentle Monster that resembled Venetian masks. Classic staples like aviators and rectangle frames were also prominent within the sartorial space this season, with them appearing within the shows of Burberry, Prada, Gucci and Max Mara.
On top of its very practical purpose, shades can incorporate a sense of mystique and a certain sense of cool detachment by obscuring one’s gaze and face. On many occasions, shades are a form of power dressing. It’s a method to reclaim control over one’s environment and manage social interactions. By concealing one’s eyes, there is empowerment in control over how one is perceived by others—thus maintaining a sense of autonomy. Above all, from the perspective of style mavens and enthusiasts alike, sunglasses are a symbol of self-expression, showcasing aspects of one’s identity, personality, or mood. Different styles of shades convey a different vibe, whether it’s Audrey Hepburn’s chic and laid-back attitude, Björk’s experimental spirit, or Joan Didion’s intellectual demeanour.
Below, peruse Vogue Singapore’s selects of the must-have sunglasses to make your fits all the more eye-catching,
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Mask sunglasses
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Gentle Monster X Maison Margiela sunglasses, $855
Available at Gentle Monster.
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Bug-eyed sunglasses
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Cat eye sunglasses
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