I love these glamorous designer sunglasses so much, I've invested in three pairs
When it comes to designer sunglasses, nobody does oversized cat's eye frames better than Gucci
This classic oversized square and cat's-eye hybrid is universally flattering. From petites to round faces, this style suits everyone. No wonder it's a celebrity favourite!
-
+
Flattering shape
-
+
Contemporary update on a classic design
-
+
Large selection of frame and lens colour combinations to choose from
-
+
Glamorous style elevates every outfit
-
-
Higher price tag makes them an investment piece
-
-
Oversized acetate frames can be heavier than alternative styles
Why you can trust Woman & Home
Ever since Jackie Kennedy Onassis stepped out wearing a pair of oversized sunglasses to shield her eyes from the intrusive flashbulbs of paparazzi photographers in the 1960s, large-framed sunglasses have been a fashion must-have.
Specifications
Price: RRP £350
Size range: One Size, 52mm lens
Bridge and Nosepads: High Bridge Fit, 21mm width
Material: Acetate
As a sunglasses-obsessed fashion editor who owns over 100 pairs, I love oversized frames, but unlike Jackie, I'm donning this frame type purely for its style credentials. Oversized frames have long been a favourite sunglasses trend, recurring year after year thanks to their universally flattering fit. However, it's important to still consider frame shapes as well as sizing when finding your ultimate pair.
After trying on hundreds, I can confidently say that Gucci's classic square-cat's eye hybrid is the most universally flattering shape around. Unlike oversized round styles that can look comically owl-ish, this structured shape has echoes of old school Hollywood glamour that instantly elevates even the simplest of outfits. From jeans and a blazer to your best wedding guest dresses, this accessory is the perfect finishing touch to every look.
I love this shape so much that I've just invested in a third pair - trust me when I say that your summer capsule wardrobe needs them!
Shop the sunglasses
A staple style from Gucci's core collection, this frame is available in a variety of colours. I've previously snapped up pairs in raspberry pink and pearlised white, but this season I'm committing myself to the classic black acetate. This timeless style is one that I know I'll come back to year after year.
Gucci Cat's Eye Sunglasses Review: Style & Fit
When it comes to finding the best sunglasses for your face shape and size, there's plenty to consider before committing to a style.
For example, those with a round face may find that a square or rectangular frame helps to sharpen their softer face shape, while those with stronger, square jawlines can soften their face shape with rounder sunglasses frames.
If you have a long or narrow face, a slim rectangular face can help to create a flattering shortening effect to balance proportions.
Sign up to our free daily email for the latest royal and entertainment news, interesting opinion, expert advice on styling and beauty trends, and no-nonsense guides to the health and wellness questions you want answered.
However, thanks to their modern take on the classic cat's eye frame, this sunglasses frame from Gucci has a universally flattering fit. With a 145mm width, the standard size will fit most faces without pinching, although some limited edition styles can come up smaller with a 140mm width, so it's worth noting this.
With a high bridge fit, this sunglasses shape sits at the top of your nose, and the 52mm width of the lens offers substantial coverage, meaning that they're a great style for bright, sunny days.
While many oversized sunglasses can err on the heavier side, this acetate frame is surprisingly lightweight and comfortable to wear with little drag down the nose, making them a great pair if you're wondering what to wear in the heat.
Gucci Cat's Eye Sunglasses Review: Function & Technology
Like most sunglasses that come with different colour lenses, the Gucci Cat's Eye sunglasses' UV rating depends on the colour of the lens - the darker you go, the better the protection offered. The black pair I tested offers Category 3 UV protection, which is rated excellent - protecting your eyes between 82-92%. This category is the best for everyday use - it will stop you squinting on bright, sunny days and can be worn for driving, unlike Category 4.
If you're planning your holiday outfits for time spent outside or around reflective surfaces such as the sea or a pool, darker lenses are the ones for you. If you want a softer option than black or smoky grey, look for styles with dark green lenses as these offer a more warming hue, even when set in black or other darkly coloured frames.
When shopping for pairs with lighter lenses, it's important to check the UV category before you buy and consider how you might wear them, as styles with light brown and yellow lenses will not offer adequate protection for brighter days but may be enough for overcast, less glary days.
Gucci Cat's Eye Sunglasses Review: Value
With an RRP over £300, there's no doubt that Gucci Cat's Eye sunglasses are an investment, but this classic style is one that you'll undoubtedly reach for year after year. With a high level of UV protection, you know your eyes will be protected, which is a key factor to consider.
While it can be tempting to opt for a faddy style, Gucci's update on the classic cat's eye shape - adding a more square oversized element - makes them a timeless design with a contemporary twist that won't date.
As someone with sensitive eyes (I wear sunglasses every day, even when it's not sunny), I'm always looking for pairs that offer high levels of protection and that I can mix and match with outfits. Having already previously owned two pairs, I know that I will get just as much wear, if not more, from the black version.
Thanks to the classic style, I know I can wear them with everything from my most comfortable jeans for an afternoon in the park to my favourite summer work outfits, which makes them an excellent addition to my capsule wardrobe.
Shop more colours
This fun raspberry shade is universally flattering thanks to its warm pink tones and green lenses. Try adding it as a pop of colour to your white jeans outfits.
Gucci Cat's Eye Sunglasses Review: Verdict
While this designer style might come with a high price tag, there's no doubt that Gucci's Cat's Eye sunglasses are a timeless classic style that you'll return to year after year. While the initial investment may seem daunting, this is an elegant style that you won't get tired of.
A celebrity favourite, Gucci's inimitable style will also add a touch of Hollywood glamour to even the simplest of outfits.
Thanks to the lightweight acetate, the oversized shape of this frame doesn't slip down or feel heavy on the nose or ears during wear.
Whilst you might think that the oversized fit would only suit those with a wider face, this classic shape suits even those with the slimmest of faces.
With a square-inspired frame, this shape helps add structure to rounder faces, while the cat's eye corners add a softer, feminine touch to the frame shape. This elegant style is the perfect shape to add to every summer outfit idea, thanks to its cool look.
Antonia Kraskowski is a freelance fashion editor with over 15 years of experience in the industry.
Having started her career at Conde Nast working for titles including Easy Living, Glamour and Vogue New Markets, Antonia went on to work in the fast-paced world of newspapers and weekly magazines, becoming Fashion Editor at Express Newspapers and Magazines in 2014, a role she held for five years before going freelance.
Her career has seen Antonia travel the world, shooting in 18 countries and styling campaigns for brands ranging from Ben Sherman and DKNY to Wallis.
You must confirm your public display name before commenting
Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name.
