Oval-Framed Eyewear Is Trending (& We're Seeing '90s Flashbacks)
The love of '90s-inspired trends is alive and well, which is why you may want to check out era-appropriate oval-framed eyewear the next time you pick up new glasses. Of course, in order to do so, you might need help figuring out which pair of oval glasses will suit you best. Carissa Dunphy, the founder of OpticianNow.com, offered a few pro tips to Woman & Home, saying, "Pay special attention to how the frame looks with your brow-line and jaw-line. Smaller oval frames are a great solution for those with high prescriptions, yet troublesome to those who wear a multifocal or progressive lens design."
Although that might help you narrow down your choices, there are still seemingly endless options that might make you feel more than just a little overwhelmed. In that case, all you need to do is follow your heart. Jake Lawrence, the Frames Buyer for Boots Opticians, explained to Woman & Home, "You should remember that it is totally up to you and your personal style. I suggest you start by trying on the frames which you're naturally drawn to and go from there."
Fortunately, there are plenty of trendy options for you to peruse. From contemporary takes on the popular style to a purely throwback retro design, there will surely be the perfect pair of oval glasses for you.
Chic contemporary oval glasses
Oval eyewear may be a nod to a trend from the '90s, however, many versions that you'll find these days have been given a sleek contemporary makeover. Think along the lines of a soft oval shape and complementary curves. The design seen here also boasts frames that are thick enough to add a strong accent to your look but aren't over-the-top enough to be distracting. You can opt for another modern touch by choosing a style that combines a bold solid color around the lenses with metal arms like silver, bronze, or rose gold.
Victorian oval glasses
The '90s weren't the only time when oval glasses were popular. Stylish folks from a somewhat more distant past were also charmed by the shape, which is why you could always decide to nab a pair of oval Victorian glasses. Whether you can track down a genuine antique example of pince-nez or find new glasses that feature an older gothic steampunk look, you can nail the aesthetic by choosing ones with relatively smaller lenses and an oval shape that isn't too narrow. Also, stick with thin metal frames that are both delicate and distinguished.
Futuristic silver-framed blue oval glasses
Instead of a throwback look that draws you in with nostalgia, you can embrace a fun futuristic vibe with your oval eyewear. These glasses stick with thinner frames that are chrome and elongated while also featuring lenses that have a slightly blue tinge. This means that they're likely too dark to be used as prescription glasses but too light to protect your eyes like sunglasses. On the other hand, it also means that they're the perfect choice if you're looking for a colorful and fashionable accessory to add to your ensemble.
Rimless rosy red oval glasses
While it seems safe to assume that most modern glasses rely on frames, there are some options that completely lack rims. By ditching the section that surrounds the lenses, the rims won't be the main focus on your face and will let your eyes stand out while framing them with the shape alone. Clear lenses will make the look even more subtle while versions that feature a flattering tone can add an understated touch of color to your look. Consider rosy red lenses with arms that are gold, silver, black, or even clear.
Black-framed oval sunglasses
The first "Matrix" movie came out in 1999 and along with giving us yet another reason to adore Keanu Reeves, the trend-setting cyberpunk film also ushered in an appreciation of slick black outfits that include equally chic oval sunglasses. You can bring back that screen-worthy aesthetic by picking up your own pair of eyewear that is made with thin black frames and the necessary dark lenses. Although they should lean toward the slender side to truly capture the look, you have the choice of eyewear that is perfectly straight or slightly angled.
Edgy, elegant gold-framed oval eyewear
You can choose eyewear that's slightly edgy and oh-so-elegant by picking out ones that have oval lenses that are enhanced by slim gold frames. A contemporary design with a classic touch, they definitely look fabulous when used as sunglasses and yet would look just as good when fitted with clear prescription lenses. They would also suit everything from a casual brunch date with your besties or a typical day at work to a daytime wedding that you're attending as a guest or a week-long holiday to your favorite fashionable destination.
White-framed retro oval sunglasses
Oval eyewear that was reminiscent of the big and bold mod glasses that were popular in the '60s became trendy again in the '90s. They've continued to pop up from time to time, including in 2016 when celebrities like Kendall Jenner, Gigi Hadid, and Selena Gomez were spotted wearing them. That's not to mention the next year when they were given a new name, which is why you might know them as clout goggles. While you could go for various colors or patterns, you might want to lean into the retro look with bright white.