The best eyeglasses trends 2022 offer something for every face shape and budget. The one trend you may not have thought about, optical styles also go through trend cycles and as designer frames grow in popularity, so to, does the emphasis on eyeglasses trends.
Now that we're in a new year, it's time to think about the eyeglasses trends 2023. While you might be au fait with the latest sunglasses trends 2022 has to offer, when it comes to eyewear, it's not just sunnies that are making waves in the fashion world. Prescription eyeglasses are having a big moment too. An easy way to switch up your look, the eyeglasses trends are all about accentuating your face. A finishing detail, rather than just a practical piece, your eyeglasses should be an extension of your style and personality, with many designers and stylists suggesting you should build a capsule wardrobe of glasses for different occasions, making it as much of an accessory as investing in the best jewelry brands.
Just as we eagerly anticipate the latest fashion trends 2023, each season new eyeglasses trends emerge too. Often taking notes from what's happening on the runway, including the jewelry trends, we're seeing plenty of bold styles hitting the shops as we all embrace getting dressed up and investing in our wardrobes once again. And if eyes are the windows to the soul, eyeglasses should be seen as complementary curtains to enhance your natural assets. Pick the right eyeglasses and not only will you see better, but your facial features could also be defined and enhanced. When considering the best eyeglasses trends 2022 has to offer, think about how and when you wear your glasses. You may want a sharper and more angular pair for work - to show you mean business, as well as glasses that are perhaps, more elegant, embellished or directional for weekend wear.
Eyeglasses trends 2022 - our expert predictions
There are 10 eyeglasses trends 2022 to consider if you're in the market for a frames update this season. Many of these trends will cross over with the best sunglasses, so if you're already a collector of the best designer sunglasses, then lean on your favorite sunglasses shapes to help you navigate these upgraded glasses silhouettes.
1. Classic Cat-Eyes
Ornella Muti and Danielle Renfrew Behrens look great in cat-eye glasses
A retro classic, a cat-eye frame shape is one of the most timeless eyeglasses trends that will suit virtually all faces, regardless of shape. And when it comes to the eyeglasses trends 2022, experts agree that it's one of the key looks this year.
Natasha Luthra, Resident Optometrist at David Clulow explained, "cat-eye opticals are having a moment for women’s styles. Brands have homed in on classics shapes and colors - blacks, tortoiseshell, demure light blues and red - likely an impact of the times".
This trend isn't just for designer frames though. Bianca Swan, Specsavers frame stylist adds, "The cat-eye style is a statement look that wins every time so I’m very pleased to see this style back as a fashion go-to for 2022. The triangular tips compliments the majority of face shapes, especially those with a defined jawline. Cat-eye glasses highlight your brow arch, drawing attention to your face’s high points and is a great way to inject some fun into your everyday style."
Style tip
When selecting your style, make sure to pay attention to the width of frames:
"To add width to the narrower top half of your face, choose frames with a strong brow-line, such as a full-rim cat-eye shape." - says, Perry Moore, managing director, Silhouette UK Ltd
For added interest, try a cat’s eye eyeglass style with interesting wingtip details such as diamanté or an exaggerated point. This vintage-inspired style would work really well with any of your best midi dresses, which also have a retro vibe. Offering a more dressed up finish, while they can easily be worn as you're everyday pair, a chic design would also work as part of capsule wardrobe of glasses and be ideal for what to wear to the races or what to wear to Wimbledon in the summer months.
Our fashion expert recommends
RRP: UK £129 | The filigree wired design and diamanté detail on this pair will bring added interest to the classic cat-eye style. With added embellishment, these are ideal for a smarter, dressier look, ideal for wearing with your best dresses for evening occasions and nights out.
RRP: $355 / £230 | One for design enthusiasts, Fendi’s iconic logo print, cat-eye design is a quirky-yet-cool update on the traditional frames. Using blue-block lenses, they filter out the blue light given off by digital screens, making these ideal as part of your summer outfits for work.
RRP: $125 / £110 | With an affordable price tag, these chunky frames are destined to make a statement as the perfect transitional piece. Ideal for what to wear to a job interview, opt for these frames in a green or brown colorway and pair with a chic block color blazer.
RRP: $179 / £131 | Nail your pre-fall wardrobe by combining neutrals with vibrant summer colors, as displayed in these Ray Ban frames. The pink embraces the fashion color trends 2022 whilst the graduating cat-eye silhouette is ideal if you are hesitant to adopt this shape.
RRP: £129 (International Delivery) | An elegant and delicate iteration, these cat eye frames are perfect if you're looking for a flattering shape that won't distract from your outfit. To make them work for the office, pair with your best blazer and tailored trousers in a suitable neutral hue.
RRP: $165 / £125 | Get two trends in one, with these Cubitts glasses offering both a retro cat-eye silhouette alongside a directional pastel blue acetate frame. Ideal for adding brightness to your face, these will work particularly well for what to wear to a wedding this summer.
2. Thick rim dark frame glasses
Cynthia Erivo and Jane Campion opt for thick-rimmed glasses
Thick rimmed glasses might’ve once carried connotations of bookish nerds but these days they’re one of the most popular frames amongst celebrity spectacle wearers with Julia Roberts, Elizabeth Banks and Gwyneth Paltrow all rocking geek chic. Their rise in popularity is also partially due to lockdown as noted by Marie Wilkinson, Style Director Cutler & Gross:
"Some crave more angular frames as they can sharpen profiles that have become a little softer over lockdown."
Style tip
If you’re worried that a traditional black frame may wash you out, look for thick-framed eyeglasses in softer shades such as navy, dark red or opt for an alternative such as colored or clear frames in the same shape. When choosing thick rimmed frames, think about your face shape too. More angular styles can add sharpness to rounder faces.
Given a striking and strong look, this style is ideal when you need a little confidence boost - so make these your go to for important work days, meetings and presentations.
Our fashion expert recommends
RRP: £445 / £135 | Bold and dark, the thick rim of these glasses marks these frames as a statement piece. In true Tom Ford style, they're ultra modern and effortlessly trendy, with a sports luxe feel. We love the pop of blue on the arms of the glasses, and the subtle T temple detail too.
RRP: $165 / £125 | A celebrity favorite, these Cubitts frames take inspiration from the 1960s, but offer a modern spin. Made from premium cellulose acetate, the Judd silhouette comes in an array of 24 different colors, so whatever your hue, there's a Judd frame to fit the brief.
RRP: $436 / £307 | Reminding us of cool waves, these gorgeous Oliver Peoples frames take the Coastal Grandmother trend to new heights. Ideal for pairing with seasonal neutrals, the printed design softens the look, while the bold shape keeps these frames modern and angular.
RRP: £210 (UK only) | Sold as non-prescription glasses, if you want to lean into the trend but have 20-20 vision, these are for you. These vibrant burgundy frames will work all year round, adding a bold accessory to light-colored outfits, whilst the square frames accentuate your face shape.
RRP: $40 / £40 | Made from recycled acetate, these Polette eyeglasses are a striking statement. The rounded frames add a fresh and modern feel, giving these thick frames added personality. You can customize the lenses too to get form and function together, seamlessly.
RRP: £285 (International Shipping) | Cutler and Gross really understand how to make standout frames. These browline glasses offer a dramatic finish, which is enhanced by the acetate, clear, taupe-toned design. With an almost androgynous design, pair with tailoring to lean in.
3. Wire Frame Glasses
Drusilla Foer and Yoyo Cao are chic in wire frames
The most delicate of styles, wire frame glasses aren’t as visible to the naked eye, particularly when worn in a classic light metallic color such as yellow or rose gold, creating the illusion that the wearer’s face is in fact ‘naked’.
Luthra shares reveals that this is one of the top eyeglasses trends 2022 with many of the top brands endorsing the look, "metal frames are having a big moment - almost every brand has released a distinctive metal double bridge frame to soft round frames".
Style tip
Wire frames aren’t for every prescription as the delicate frames can’t hold thicker lenses. Those with varifocals or stronger eyeglasses prescriptions might need to avoid this style. Ask your optician for advice.
Our fashion expert recommends
RRP: $179 / £131 | You can never go wrong with a pair of aviators. The classic shape has been around since 1937 marking these frames as a timeless addition to your wardrobe. The swooping angular frames and gold wiring are effortlessly elegant.
RRP: £145 (UK Only) | Want your frames to be more visible? Look for eyeglasses styles in pastels such as this pretty Prada alabaster pair - a nod to this season's love of all things pretty and pink, team with one of the best pink dresses for a tonal look.
RRP: £740 (International Delivery) | As one of the best jewelry brands, Cartier prides itself on its expert finishes and these gold-rimmed frames do not disappoint. Timeless wire frames will always be a fashion winner and the perfect accompaniment to any outfit.
RRP: $50 / £50 | With a subtle cat-eye, these rounded, black, wire frame glasses offer two trends in one. Ideal for smart occasions, we love the hint of gold on the winged tips. You can also do a virtual try on, using your web camera, smart!
RRP: $125 / £110 | These oval frames come in 3 neutral colorways and will suit any occasion. Rounded frames are ideal for softening angular face shapes. With a vintage feel, the wire frame offers timeless simplicity with just a hint of androgyny.
RRP: $335 / £245 | French clothing brand Chloe has combined the angular and wire framed trend with this standout pair of glasses. Giving a stylish nod to the '70s, this vintage-inspired design will stand the test of time whilst adding a directional feel.
4. Clear and pastel colored acetate frames
Alyah Chanelle Scott and Elise Perry look stylish in acetate eyeglasses
The eyeglasses trend for invisible frames has been gathering pace as a fashionable alternative for several years. Frames in clear acetate and soft pastels are particularly on-trend right now. Luthra explains the progression of this look has it roots in another trend:
"2022 is an evolution on dainty eyewear but in oversize shapes, as seen at Prada, but what’s a little surprising is the transparent theme, Arnette, Emporio Armani, Oliver Peoples and Tiffany & Co have really added a refreshing take to opticals [with this trend]".
Simon Jablon, Creative Director of luxury glasses brand Linda Farrow, adds that they expect soft hues to be the most popular this year, 'for 2022 we focussed on a soft pastel trend for our hero acetate styles leading with a lavender, peach and sky blue colour palette'.
Style tip
Wilkinson advises that for truly on-trend frames, opt for ‘ice blue, pink and Granny chic. Deeper transparents like warm Rhubarb and cool aviator blue and colors that fade like the honey burst fade and grey fade are popular’.
Lighter frames are ideal for summer occasions, so whether you're looking for an update to team with the best mother of the groom dresses or some stylish frames to pair with the best mother of the bride outfits, a pastel or clear acetate offers a dressy but modern finish.
Our fashion expert recommends
RRP: $289 / £291 | Chunky perspex frames have been a hit this season and Bottega Veneta nails it with these frames. The angled cat-eye adds a feminine touch to the look, while the striking clear acetate and gold combo gives that designer finish.
RRP: $400 / £310 | When it comes to nailing the eyeglasses trends 2022, Celine is a pro. Mixing acetate with an angular silhouette, this pair of glasses delivers two trending looks in one, which is complemented by the soft color used.
RRP: £550 (International Shipping Available) | A limited edition design, Cutler & Gross have a cult following when it comes to eyewear. The 9101 celebrates the 40th Anniversary of one of Tony Gross’ favorite frames – the 0101. We love the androgynous feel.
RRP: £125 (Free International Delivery)| Embrace the height of summer with these gorgeous pastel blue frames, ideal for teaming with white linen and light wash denim during warmer months. Add in your best white trainers for an effortless summery look.
RRP: £74 (International Shipping Available) | In six colorways, this design shows that you can shop the latest eyeglasses trends 2022 at a range of price points. While designers set the trends, straight-to-market brands offer style and accessability.
RRP: $276 / £270 | With a delicate shape and pastel hue, Celine has created the ultimate in understated, luxury eyewear for this season. The structured finish renders them office-ready, while the color adds a feminine and playful feel to the angular frame.
5. Vintage-style aviators
Nathalie Emmanuel and Brooke Shields go vintage in aviator frames
A clear sign that vintage-style aviators are going to be a key style this year, ex-J Crew Queen Jenna Lyons has even swapped out her previous signature chunky frames for cool '70s-inspired aviators. While Sarah Jessica Parker also chose a similar pair for read-throughs for the new series of Just Like That, meaning that you too can master how to dress like Carrie Bradshaw - starting with this just one nifty accessory.
Style tip
Go oversized, for a statement, retro look. Wilkinson suggests opting for an on-trend oversized pair of prescription glasses: "Oversized frames can be a refreshing wear as they offer wide uninterrupted fields of view."
With a naturally '70s vintage feel, this look is ideal for those wondering 'what is boho style?' and working out how to inject the bohemian vibe into a modern wardrobe.
Our fashion expert recommends
RRP: $60 / £45 | Go classic with these Quay Australia frames. A style piece that won't break the bank, if you're nervous about a vintage look, it's a great way to trial the trend. Pair with your long skirt outfit ideas and explore bohemian style.
RRP: $640 / £415 | Make like SJP in these pale gold-framed aviators. Suiting virtually all face shapes, even American clothing brand designer, Michael Kors, himself is a big fan of the silhouette. Ideal for adding instant cool with their oversized design.
RRP: £280 | Fashion favors the brave so make like Jenna Lyons in a pair of darker colored frames like these from Tom Ford. An easy way to sharpen up your look, we love the contrast blue tips with the classic tortoiseshell frame for a modern finish.
RRP: $200 / £125 | Lean into neutrals by opting for tortoiseshell-framed aviators to revolutionize the classic design. The sporty finish and double bridge detail give these a modern edge, making them wearable for office attire or weekend casual.
RRP: £95 (UK Only) | Aviators with a twist, these glasses from Bloobloom feature rounded frames alongside the classic T bar top. Ideal for those looking to soften an angular face shape, these rounded aviators hit two eyeglasses trends in one.
RRP: £99 (UK Only) | Inspired by singer Kylie Mongue, these pop star perfect pink glasses with marble finishing on the arms add a real point of difference to the look. Ideal for embracing the summer sun, pair with floral dresses for special occasions this season.
6. Round frames
Sandy Powell OBE and Ashley Nicole Black look great in circular frames
Quirky and cool, circular and round frames are once again a key prescription glasses trend for 2022 and look brilliant on women of all ages. Not one for the faint hearted, a rounded frame definitely offers a more directional feel to your look, but wear them with confidence and you'll easily pull the look off. While they can be worn for everyday or smarter occasions, the slightly edgier feel does make them ideal for dressed down weekends.
"Just as square frames suit rounded faces, round or oval frames balance out and add softness to a squarer face. Opt for frames that are narrower than they are wide to soften strong, angular features. Neutral colours will also help to elongate the face. Rounded or oval-shaped frames, and those with decorative details along the top line, are an excellent choice for heart-shaped faces to balance out a narrower chin," says Perry.
Style tip
"Just as square frames suit rounded faces, round or oval frames balance out and add softness to a squarer face. Opt for frames that are narrower than they are wide to soften strong, angular features. Neutral colours will also help to elongate the face. Rounded or oval-shaped frames, and those with decorative details along the top line, are an excellent choice for heart-shaped faces to balance out a narrower chin," says Perry.
Our fashion expert recommends
RRP: £99 (International Shipping Available) | Ideal for smaller faces, these sustainable bio-acetate frames come in a light tortoiseshell. Flattering on all complexions, they feature adjustable temple ends for a comfortable fit.
RRP: $165 / £125 | Channeling Hockney or Le Corbusier, these 1950s-inspired frames offer seriously arty vibes. The bold green will work all year through, teaming easily with neutrals, navy, and monochromatic looks.
RRP: $171 / £131 | Hitting two trends in one, take the rounded frame shape and add a wired frame for an on-trend look. A timeless design, these frames come in two different widths, to help you find the perfect fit and we love the red ear tips.
RRP: £370 (International Delivery) | In combining acetate and titanium, these frames have a distinct utilitarian finish, making them ideal as we head towards the fall 2022 fashion trends.
RRP: $420 / £285 | With a subdued tortoiseshell colorway, the silver fixtures on the frames add luxe detailing to the look. The slender frames have an almost wire-like aesthetic for a sharp finish.
RRP: $125 / £110 | Try something a bit different with these round tortoiseshell eyeglasses. A smaller silhouette, they're ideal if you find on-trend frames generally too big for your face shape.
7. Colorful frames
Lupita Nyong'o and Bella Hadid look striking in colorful frames
This is an eyeglasses trend for those who are willing to be bold. If you've already dipped your toe into wearing bright color clothing, then you need to make sure your accessories are up to scratch and British Cooking Show (aka Bake Off) host Prue Leith is proof that you’re never too old to rock the colorful eyeglasses trend. Prue is such a fan of the style that she even teamed up with US eyewear brand Ronit Furst to create her own collection of colorful glasses in a variety of shapes.
Style tip
Bold framed glasses are really youthful and this season, there is a rainbow abundance of color to choose from. The great thing about this trend is that the frame shapes, vary dipping into a number of other trends mentioned in this piece, so you can embrace some color and still stick to a shape that you're already well-acquainted with.
Try teaming bright frames with a colorful cashmere sweater or top for an eye-catching look.
Our fashion expert recommends
RRP: £59.99 (International shipping available) | You can never go wrong with baby blue, and this elegant pair of glasses is a great way to get in the summer mood. Pair with one of the best denim jackets, in a faded blue wash and white tee for a tonal look.
RRP: $280 / £175 | A statement pair of eyeglasses. These are ideal for those with olive and pink-based complexions, and perfectly playout the dopamine dressing trend for bright, mood-boosting hues that has taken over fashion this season.
RRP: $349 / £245 | Great for wider nose bridges, Kimeze's bold red frames are great for getting you noticed. Eyeglasses should be an extension of your wardrobe and personality and these certainly do the trick when it comes to creating a look.
RRP: £495 (International Delivery) | Go bold this summer with these green square glasses. Adding brightness to your look, they'll team well with a floral midi or add personality to a tailored work look. We love the use of acetate for a lighter finish.
RRP: $255 / £255 | Don't be intimated by the color, these angular glasses are made to stand out. So whether you go for a tonal look or clash and contrast your outfit with your frames, these should be the key piece in your ensemble. A guaranteed head turner, for all the right reasons.
RRP: £85 (International Delivery) | If bold colors aren't your first choice, that doesn't mean you have to bypass adding color altogether. Start with subtle pastels, like these light color frames. Their round shape will never date whilst the light hue adds a feminine touch.
8. Oversized Frames
Fee Greening and Jane Wurwand rock oversized frames
When it comes to this trend, the bigger the better. Perhaps borrowing from some of the best sunglasses trends, where maximum coverage has been in for several seasons, the eyeglasses trend 2022 for statement frames have made a real comeback. This trend also leans on existing styles listed above, such as wire, thick-frame and colorful frame trends to help solidify its impact.
Style tip
"In 2022, it’s the bigger the better! We are seeing bigger, bolder and louder glasses as we enter in 2022 and I think they will be at the forefront of eyewear trends this spring," says Bianca.
This look does command attention, so keep the rest of your look fairly neutral and opt for classic tailored pieces such as sharp tailoring and an oversized, androgynous shirt, for a look that is sleek and workwear ready but still very fashion-forward.
When it comes to face shape, Perry gives this advice:
"If you’re not sure about rounded panto-shaped lenses, try a square frame for a striking look. Angular, squared frames are the best choice if you have a round face, giving it a longer, narrower appearance as their sharp angles balance out the face’s roundness. For the most flattering look, try a pair that are wider than they are tall."
Our fashion expert recommends
RRP: £129 (UK only) | Drawing on Liberty's British clothing brand heritage, these pastel pink frames are part of a special collaborative collection between Specsavers and the department store brand.
RRP: $565 / £480 | If you love a big statement pair of frames, then you'll adore these thick-rimmed Gucci glasses. We particularly love the side gold detailing for added luxe factor, contrasted with the bold black hue.
RRP: £420 (UK only) | If you really want to make an impact, these transparent pink and red oversized frames are certainly attention grabbers. We love the clashing colors for a fun and fashionable look.
RRP: £235 (International Delivery) | With a more structured frame, these glasses boast a more androgynous style. Offering split-color acetate to add a subtle feminine edge, these glasses are smart for work or play.
RRP: £282.95 (International shipping available) | With three trends in one, these wire frames tick a lot of fashion boxes. With a subtle, oversized cat-eye, wire frame, these literally nail the eyeglasses trends 2022.
RRP: £280 (International Delivery) | Add a vintage touch to your look with these oversized tortoiseshell eyeglasses. With a modern take on tortoiseshell, we love the injection of the subtle T detailing at the temple.
9. Tortoiseshell Frames
Jennifer Aniston and Alice Violier make a statement in tortoiseshell frames
Tortoiseshell has been popular in the realm of sunglasses for years now, so much so, that it's basically a wardrobe essential when it comes to sun protection. However, we're increasingly seeing sunglasses trends filter into prescription glasses trends, as consumers gain confidence in opting for more fashion-forward aesthetics for their eyeglasses too.
Stylist tip
If you've already integrated tortoiseshell into your sunglass selection, you'll need no help here at all, but if you've yet to dip your toe in, what are you waiting for? Tortoiseshell is universally flattering and this trend comes in all glasses shapes, so just pick your fave frame shape and away you go.
Our fashion expert recommends
RRP: $40 / £40 | With a more rounded silhouette, these glasses will suit most face shapes and the patterned, tortoiseshell frame is universally flattering. Ideal for both work and casual wear, these will easily become a staple in your closet.
RRP: $165 / £125 | Nailing two trends in one, the rounded frame shape makes it ideal for angular faces. The tortoiseshell coloring keeps this look fresh and modern. Featuring a keyhole bridge, this style is suited to people with flatter nose bridges.
RRP: £239 (International Delivery) | We love these tortoiseshell glasses for their unusual rounded shape and thick frames allowing you to make a unique fashion statement whilst also ensuring their neutral color palette will accommodate any outfit.
RRP: $55 / £39 | A cost-effective way to buy into the tortoiseshell trend, Quay Australia delivers on directional pocket-friendly styles. These mini eyeglasses are best for petites as they offer a smaller silhouette, ideal for adding to tailored looks.
RRP: £280 (UK Only) | Classic doesn’t have to mean boring. Gucci has spun simple into stylish with these cat-eye glasses. In a timeless tortoiseshell, you can add your prescription lenses to this look for a style that works hard too.
RRP: £160 (UK Only) | Drawing inspiration from Cary Grant in the 1959 classic North By Northwest, the style features custom details designed to keep the integrity of the style worn in the film. So if you're a big movie fan, this is for you.
10. Wooden Frames
Yes, you read that right, wooden frames. Influenced by a growing ethical fashion movement, wooden frames are stating claim as one of the top eyeglasses trends 2022 to look out for. From walnut to black and even tortoiseshell-like colors and textures, wooden frames are set to become the latest material to get your specs in.
Stylist tip
This isn't hugely different coloring-wise to the tortoiseshell trend, making them universally flattering. As they come in a range of silhouettes, again it's simply about working out what frames suit your face and then shopping accordingly. It's a great choice if you're looking to have less plastic in your life too.
Our fashion expert recommends
RRP: £69.99 (international shipping available) | Highly durable and lightweight, the wood is mixed with plant-based bio-acetate to make it stronger and longer-lasting for practicality and style in one.
RRP: £192 (International delivery available) | Super sleek, these handcrafted wooden frames are sure to up your eyeglasses game. Ideal for those looking for a more eco-friendly purchase.
RRP: £69.99 (International Shipping Available) | Lightweight and hardwearing, they will perfectly accompany jeans and a white t-shirt when running errands or dressed up with tailored pants and heels.