| Quick answer: The best sunglasses depend on your face shape, fit and how you plan to use them. Aviators, wayfarers, round, rectangular, cat-eye, oversized and wrap-around frames are among the most popular styles in 2026. As a rule of thumb, angular frames add definition to round faces, while rounded frames soften square features. Whatever the style, look for reliable UV protection and a comfortable fit. Polarized lenses help reduce glare while driving or spending time outdoors. |
Choosing the right sunglasses isn’t just about picking a frame that looks good. The shape and size of the frame can change how it sits on your face, while the lenses matter for comfort, glare and UV protection. Some styles are easy to wear every day, while others work better for driving, sports, holidays or simply making a statement.
Knowing the differences between the main sunglasses styles makes it easier to narrow down what suits you, and what’s worth spending your money on. Here’s a look at 21 types of sunglasses and how to find the right style for you.
1. Aviators
Aviators are probably the first style that comes to mind when you think of classic sunglasses. They typically have teardrop-shaped lenses, a thin metal frame and a double bridge.
The style was originally developed for pilots in the 1930s to protect their eyes from bright sunlight while flying.
Aviators work particularly well if you have a square, heart or oval face, although the size and proportions of the frame matter more than following a face-shape chart blindly.
Face shapes to try: Square, heart, oval
Best for: Everyday wear, driving and classic looks
Shopping tip: If you’re looking for the classic Ray-Ban version, check out the latest Ray-Ban offers on GrabOn. You can also find Ray-Ban and other popular eyewear brands on Myntra. Use the latestMyntra promo codes to save more on your order.
2. Wayfarers
Wayfarers were introduced by Ray-Ban in the 1950s and have stayed popular because they are easy to wear with almost anything.
Their angular shape is particularly useful for adding definition to a round face. But you don’t need a particular face shape to wear them – frame width, bridge fit and overall proportions make a noticeable difference.
Face shapes to try: Round, oval
Best for: Everyday wear, casual outfits and a classic look
Worth knowing: You don’t have to buy the original Ray-Ban style. Plenty of brands make wayfarer-inspired frames at different price points. Check outLenskart discounts for affordable alternatives in similar styles.
3. Butterfly Sunglasses
Butterfly sunglasses are wider toward the outside edges of the frame, creating a shape that resembles butterfly wings.
They’re usually oversized and are more of a statement accessory than an everyday minimalist frame.
Face shapes to try: Oval, heart and diamond
Best for: Fashion-forward outfits, holidays and occasions
If you’re shopping for a statement pair online, compare the frame width with a pair you already own. Oversized doesn’t mean it should sit halfway off your face.
4. Cat Eye
Cat-eye sunglasses have an upswept outer corner that gives the frame its distinctive shape.
They’re closely associated with vintage fashion, but there are plenty of modern versions now, from subtle everyday frames to dramatic oversized designs.
Face shapes to try: Oval, heart and diamond
Best for: Statement looks, vintage-inspired outfits and everyday fashion
Where to shop:H&Mhas a range of cat-eye sunglasses, from subtle everyday frames to more statement-making styles.
5. Flip-Up
Flip-up sunglasses have a lens section that can be lifted away from the face while the underlying frame stays in place.
They’re particularly useful for people who move between bright outdoor conditions and indoor environments and can also be used with certain prescription frames.
Face shapes to try: Depends on the underlying frame
Best for: Practical everyday use and prescription eyewearFor prescription flip-up sunglasses, check that the frame is compatible with your prescription. GKB Opticalsis one option for prescription eyewear.
6. Clubmaster
Clubmaster frames are recognised by their heavier brow line and thinner lower frame.
They have a distinctly retro feel and can add structure without looking as heavy as a full thick-rimmed frame.
Face shapes to try: Oval, oblong and heart
Best for: Smart-casual outfits, office wear and retro stylingYou can find Clubmaster-style sunglasses from brands across price points, including Ray-Ban, Fastrack, IDEE, Polaroid and Vincent Chase.
7. Shield
Shield sunglasses have a large lens or lens-like front that covers most of the face from one side to the other.
They have a sporty, futuristic look and are popular in streetwear and athletic styling.
Face shapes to try: Depends heavily on the frame size and fit
Best for: Sports, streetwear and statement outfitsIf you’re choosing shield sunglasses for outdoor activity rather than just fashion, pay attention to UV protection, coverage and impact resistance, not just how dramatic the frame looks.
Brands to consider:Oakleyis a solid choice for performance-focused shield sunglasses, while H&M offers more fashion-led versions of the style.
8. Round
Round sunglasses have circular or near-circular lenses and can soften a face with stronger angles.
They are a natural choice for people with square or diamond-shaped faces, but the right size can make them work on other face shapes too.
Face shapes to try: Square, diamond
Best for: Casual outfits, vintage looks and beach holidaysYou can find round sunglasses from brands such as Ray-Ban, Fastrack, Titan, Oakley and Polaroid at Titan Eye+.
9. Heart-Shaped
Heart-shaped sunglasses taper toward the bottom of the lens and are designed to stand out.
They’re more of a fashion statement than an everyday essential, so color and frame proportions can be just as important as face shape.
Face shapes to try: Square, triangle
Best for: Parties, festivals, holidays and statement looks
Looking for a pair?Amazon has plenty of heart-shaped sunglasses in different colours, frame styles and price points, so you can find something that suits your style without spending too much.
10. Oval
Oval sunglasses have softly rounded lenses that are wider than they are tall. They can work particularly well on faces with stronger angles, as the curved frame provides some contrast.
The slim oval shape also has a distinctly ’90s feel and has been making a comeback in celebrity style, with stars like Dakota Johnson, Margot Robbie and Emma Stone spotted in similar frames.
Face shapes to try: Square, oblong
Best for: Minimal, understated and vintage-inspired looksAJIO has a good selection of oval sunglasses in different frame shapes, sizes and price points.
11. Rectangle
Rectangular sunglasses have straight edges and a more structured appearance.
They can add definition to rounder facial features and are easy to style with everyday outfits. Slim rectangular frames also give a subtle retro feel without looking overly vintage.
Face shapes to try: Round, oval
Best for: Everyday wear, casual outfits and modern stylingZara is a good pick for this shape if you prefer clean, fashion-forward frames, with its current collection including several rectangular styles.
12. Square
Square sunglasses have a more defined frame with relatively straight edges.
They’re a good option if you want a bold frame and can work particularly well against softer, rounder facial features.
Face shapes to try: Round, oval
Best for: Everyday wear, oversized styling and bold looksNykaa Fashion has square sunglasses from brands such as Ted Smith, French Connection, Scott and Voyage, with options across different styles and price points.
13. Gradient
Gradient sunglasses are defined by the lens tint rather than the frame shape. The lens is darker at one end and gradually becomes lighter.
That means you can have gradient aviators, gradient cat-eye frames, gradient rectangles and plenty of other combinations.
Face shapes to try: Depends on the frame
Best for: Everyday wear, driving and fashion
One thing to remember: gradient tint and UV protection aren’t the same thing. Always check the UV specification separately.
14. Coloured Lens
Sunglasses aren’t limited to grey, brown or black lenses. You can find blue, green, yellow, pink, orange and red tints too.
Lens colour can affect how you perceive brightness and contrast, but it doesn’t tell you how much UV protection a pair provides. A darker lens isn’t automatically safer.
The American Optometric Association recommends sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB radiation.
Face shapes: Depends on the frame
Best for: Fashion and specific outdoor uses, depending on the lensIf you like the look, Woggles has a range of tinted sunglasses in colours including blue, green, yellow, pink and red, making it a good place to explore coloured-lens styles.
15. White
White frames are a statement in themselves. They can be paired with dark, coloured or even clear lenses depending on the look you’re after.
They’re particularly popular for summer outfits, holidays and resort wear.
Face shapes: Depends on the frame
Best for: Statement styling, holidays and summer outfits
Tip: If you’re choosing white frames, look for a shape that balances your features rather than focusing only on the colour. Oversized frames create a bolder look, while slimmer frames are easier to wear every day.
16. Clear
Clear frames have become a staple in contemporary eyewear, particularly for people who want something lighter-looking than black or tortoiseshell frames.
They can be paired with tinted lenses in shades like grey, brown or green, making them easy to style while still adding a little visual interest.
Face shapes: Most, depending on frame shape
Best for: Minimal, contemporary and everyday looks
17. Sport
Sport sunglasses are designed around stability, coverage and durability rather than just appearance.
They may have curved lenses, rubber nose pads, flexible frames or wrap-around designs to keep them secure while you’re moving.
For activities where your eyes could be exposed to impact, look for appropriate protective eyewear. The AOA recommends polycarbonate or Trivex lenses for potentially hazardous outdoor work and sports because of their impact resistance.
Face shapes: Depends on the design
Best for: Running, cycling, hiking and outdoor sportsIf you’re after this trend, Decathlon is a good option for sport sunglasses, with dedicated styles for running, cycling and hiking, including impact-resistant and polarized options.
18. Wrap Around
Wrap-around sunglasses curve around the sides of your face instead of stopping at the temples like conventional frames.
That extra coverage can be useful in bright outdoor conditions because it reduces the amount of light entering from the sides.
Face shapes: Oval, oblong and most shapes depending on fit
Best for: Cycling, driving, hiking and outdoor activitiesIf you’re spending long periods outside in bright sunlight, close-fitting wrap-around frames can provide additional coverage.
19. Oversized
Oversized sunglasses have larger lenses and frames that cover more of the face.
They’re popular for a reason: they can turn a very simple outfit into a look. But bigger isn’t automatically better.
The frame should still sit comfortably without slipping down your nose or resting on your cheeks. Some great examples of oversized sunglasses are the ones worn by Badshah or Jennifer Lopez.
Face shapes: Most, depending on proportions
Best for: Fashion, travel and statement looks
20. Tiny
Tiny sunglasses have narrow lenses and a deliberately small frame.
They’re mainly a fashion choice and are associated with the slim, retro-inspired eyewear trend. The Kardashians, along with other celebrities like Hailey Bieber and Rihanna, have been spotted wearing various styles of tiny glasses.
Face shapes: Round, oval and some heart-shaped faces, depending on the frame
Best for: Fashion-forward and retro outfitsIf you need strong sun coverage, however, a tiny frame isn’t the obvious choice. Treat this one as a style decision rather than a protection feature.
Face shape suited:Round/ Oval
21. Side-shield Sunglasses
Side-shield sunglasses have additional material or lens coverage extending toward the temples.
They can look futuristic and provide additional side coverage, although some designs can interfere with peripheral vision.
Face shapes: Depends on the frame
Best for: Fashion, outdoor activities and high-coverage stylesIf the side panels significantly restrict your peripheral vision, treat them as a fashion frame rather than an everyday driving pair.
Which Sunglasses Suit Your Face Shape?
Face-shape guides are useful, but don’t treat them as law. The old “one face shape = one frame” approach is too simplistic. Frame width, lens height, bridge position and the overall proportions of the sunglasses matter too.
| Face shape | Frames to try | Why |
| Round | Rectangle, square, wayfarer, geometric | Adds definition |
| Square | Round, oval, aviator | Softens stronger angles |
| Oval | Aviator, wayfarer, cat-eye, square, round | Works with many shapes |
| Heart | Aviator, butterfly, round, cat-eye | Can balance a wider forehead |
| Diamond | Round, oval, cat-eye | Softens prominent cheekbones |
| Oblong | Oversized, aviator, wayfarer | Adds visual width |
| Triangle | Aviator, butterfly, wider upper frames | Draws attention upward |
The easiest rule to remember is contrast: angular frames can add structure to rounder faces, while curved frames can soften sharper features.
And if you love a frame that supposedly “doesn’t suit” your face shape? Try it anyway. Fit and personal style beat a rigid internet chart.
How to Choose Sunglasses for Your Style
Give yourself a sassy and confident look on outfits with the Sunglasses. They have become a life-saver option when you travel outdoors to protect you from harmful chemicals, debris, and UV radiation. The perks of sunglasses are countless. However, when you plan to buy online, you should know the following parameters for a trouble-free shopping experience. Have a glimpse:
Know Your Face Shape
Who doesn’t like to don a pair of sunglasses and add that sense of statement to your personality? But if the sunglasses don’t go well with your face shape, it can simply lead to a disastrous look instead of enhancing it. Before choosing your sunglasses, it is essential to know what sunglasses would be best for your face shape. Here is how you can determine the best sunglasses for your face shape.
First, you have to know which face shape you have. The common face shapes are
- Oval
- Oblong
- Square
- Round
- Heart shapes
- Triangle
Oval and round shapes have round corners. The oblong face shape is longer vertically rather than being wide. Square shapes are mostly as wide as they long, but have sharp edges and stronger bone structure. The heart shaped face looks like the name itself which is wider from the top and pointed at the bottom.
In order to choose the best sunglasses for your face shape, you must choose the frame that is opposite to your face shape. For example, if you have square face shape, go for rounded sunglasses or those which have curves like the aviators. The striking straight lines of your face shape contradicts the roundness of the glasses, adding towards the standards of an ideal face shape.
Similarly, if you have an oval or round face, then square-shaped sunglasses are going to make your face closer to that considered as ideal.
Know Different Parts of Sunglasses
You might have been using sunglasses from childhood. Do you know the different parts of sunglasses? Well, there are several small components that are joined together to make a complete look and fit your face shape. Here is the list:
- Top Bar
- Bridge
- Hinge
- Joint
- Nosepads
- Frame Rim
- Temple Tip
Frame Size
There is a myth that smaller frames should be used for small faces and larger frames for big faces. It is untrue, and the frame size should be independent of the lens and person’s face shape. To be more specific, you need to consider the dimensions when you look at the glasses; they should protect and cover the eyes conveniently. Have a look at the 3-parameters associated with the frame material:
Bridge Size: Distance between two lenses is often referred to as a bridge.
Eye Size: Measuring outer edge to inner edge of a lens horizontally.
Temple Size: The length of the arm piece is known as temple size and is also called arm size.
Frame Materials
The comfort and durability depend on the type of materials used for the frame. If you are not aware of the materials used for crafting glasses, scroll down to choose from the wide range of options like Plastic, Metal, Polycarbonate, Nylon, Acetate, etc.
Metal: Metal frames are made of aluminum, titanium, and stainless steel materials. They come in limited styles and designs, making them a less priority for fashion-lovers. Moreover, due to their metallic nature, they are highly prone to allergies.
Plastic: Plastic frames are available in different colors and patterns to meet the requirements of customers. They are made using Nylon and Polycarbonate materials. Also, they are lightweight in nature and cannot be deformed. Once you try to bend the frame, it can break easily.
Type of Lens
Lens colors, i.e., from blue to subtle brown, add tremendous value and make them look posh. Apart from that, the lens material should be chosen carefully to prevent damaging the eye vision. The Optical glass, Polycarbonate, Acrylic, and NXT Polyurethane are the most commonly used lens materials globally. So, you can pick the lens type depending on your comfort and budget options.
FAQs
What type of sunglasses suit a round face?
Square, rectangular, wayfarer and other angular sunglasses can add definition to a round face. Look for frames that are slightly wider than the broadest part of your face, rather than very narrow or strongly rounded styles. The exact fit still matters, so face shape should be used as a starting point rather than a strict rule.
What sunglasses look best on a square face?
Round, oval and aviator sunglasses can work well on a square face because their curved lines balance a more defined forehead and jawline. Avoid choosing a frame that is too narrow for your face, as the proportions can look off even when the shape itself is suitable.
How do I know what sunglasses suit my face?
Start by identifying your face shape, then look for contrast in the frame. Angular frames can add definition to rounder faces, while curved frames can soften sharper features. Frame width is just as important as shape — sunglasses should sit comfortably across your face without slipping, pressing against your temples or touching your cheeks.
Does frame size matter when choosing sunglasses?
Yes. A frame can have the “right” shape for your face and still look or feel wrong if the size is off. Check the lens width, bridge width and temple length, especially when buying sunglasses online. A frame that is too narrow may look cramped, while an oversized frame can overwhelm smaller facial features.
What is the difference between UV400 and polarized sunglasses?
UV400 and polarization refer to two different things. UV400 describes protection against ultraviolet wavelengths up to around 400 nanometres, while polarized lenses reduce glare reflected from surfaces such as roads and water. Polarized sunglasses can be useful for driving and outdoor activities, but they should also provide adequate UV protection.
Are polarized sunglasses better for driving?
Polarized sunglasses can make driving more comfortable by reducing glare from roads, vehicles and other reflective surfaces. Grey lenses can also help preserve more natural colour perception. However, polarisation does not automatically mean better UV protection, so check the lens specifications before buying.
Can you wear sunglasses at night while driving?
Regular dark sunglasses are not recommended for night driving because they reduce the amount of visible light reaching your eyes. Sunglasses are designed for bright conditions, so using a dark tint at night can make it harder to see clearly. If you need vision correction while driving at night, prescription lenses designed for those conditions are a better option.
Are dark sunglasses better than light sunglasses for UV protection?
No. The darkness of a sunglass lens does not determine how much UV protection it provides. A very dark lens can reduce visible brightness without offering adequate protection from ultraviolet radiation. Check the stated UVA and UVB protection instead of judging protection by the color or darkness of the lens.
What should I check before buying sunglasses online?
Check the frame measurements, UV protection, lens type, seller details and return policy before ordering. Compare the eye size, bridge width and temple length with sunglasses you already own that fit well. For branded sunglasses, check the seller carefully. It is also worth comparing the final price after coupons, sale discounts and eligible bank offers.
How can I get good sunglasses at a lower price?
Compare the same style across retailers before buying and check for current coupon codes, product discounts and bank offers. Major shopping events can also bring down prices on branded and fashion sunglasses. If you’re buying from Lenskart, Ray-Ban retailers, Amazon or other eyewear merchants, checking the latest GrabOn offers before checkout can help you compare available savings.
