The Best Sunglasses for Women: 2024's Top Picks

If you’re on the hunt for a pair of sunglasses, you’ve probably found that there are seemingly more options on the market than ever before. The sunglasses market is ever-expanding and is expected to reach 23.32 billion in 2024 and 32.20 billion by 2029 per research from Mordor Intelligence. 

This is exciting for those of us who love wearing sunglasses, even year round, but who are notorious for losing or breaking them, like myself. Try as I might, it always seems that I’m in need of a new pair of shades, whether it’s for an upcoming vacation or because I lost a pair during my last vacation. 

Our picks for the best sunglasses for women

How I selected the best sunglasses for women

When compiling this list of the best sunglasses on the market designed for women, I combed through customer reviews and relied on first-hand opinions about which sunglasses were the most comfortable, flattering, and stylish for all shape faces, with individual preferences in mind. I factored in various price points and models of sunglasses that would appease a wide audience. Here are some of the key areas I focused on:

Frame style

It’s always nice when you can find a frame style that complements your key features, like your face shape, skin tone, and personality. For example, people with round faces might prefer angular frames, while those with square faces might benefit from rounded frames. The fit of the sunglasses, too, matters, as comfort is key. You want to make sure that the frames sit securely on your face and that they’re not too tight or loose.

UV protection

Exposure to excessive UV radiation from the sun’s harmful rays can cause a myriad of eye-related issues, which is why it’s so crucial to ensure your sunglasses come with UV protection. Look specifically for sunglasses that come with a label indicating that they offer UV protection. It’s also worth it to splurge on polarized lenses. Although they can be a bit more pricey, they can reduce glare and improve vision in bright conditions.

Materials

The materials your sunglasses are made from matter, as they can impact durability, appearance, longevity, and comfort. The most common materials used are plastic (acetate), which is lightweight and affordable, metal, such as titanium or stainless steel, and natural materials, which are the most eco-friendly option. 

What to consider when buying sunglasses for women

Before you click purchase on a new pair of sunglasses, there are a few important factors to consider. 

UV protection

When it comes to safety, UV protection matters—and sunglasses are just as important as the right sunscreen for staying sun-safe. After all, sunglasses are meant to protect your eyes from the sun, and the only way they can effectively do that is if they offer 100% UV protection from both UVA and UVB rays. This protection can help prevent a myriad of conditions later in life, including cataracts and macular degeneration.

Lens color

Lens color isn’t just about personal preference—the color of the lenses on your sunglasses can actually impact how much light is blocked and how your vision is affected by the sun’s rays. The best colors for sunglasses in terms of protection are brown, gray, and green. 

There are also photochromic lenses, also known as "transition" lenses, which are a type of glasses that darken when you go outside. “They're great because they turn a pair of glasses into sunglasses, but they typically don't darken as much as traditional sunglasses do,” says Michelle Holmes, OD, optometrist at Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California. “It's also worth noting that photochromic lenses are activated by UV light exposure, so they typically don’t function as sunglasses behind the windshield of a car.”

Style

Style matters when it comes to sunglasses, just as it does with clothing. You should choose a pair of sunglasses that offer a style that flatters both your face shape and your style preference. Some popular frame styles include aviators, wayfarers, round, cat-eye, and hexagonal. 

Polarization

You might opt for polarized sunglasses, or sunglasses with lenses that specifically help reduce glare from reflective surfaces like water and snow. They’re better for people who spend a significant amount of time outdoors. “Polarized lenses are treated with a special chemical to make them exceptional at reducing glare, which makes them ideal for use during outdoor activities or when driving,” says Diane Hilal-Campo, MD, board-certified ophthalmologist and founder of twenty/twenty beauty.  

Prescription

Prescription sunglasses are self explanatory—they are made for the wearer's unique vision needs, whether that's for myopia (nearsightedness), presbyopia (farsightedness), both (these are bifocal glasses), or to correct an astigmatism, explains Dr. Hilal-Campo.

What are the latest trends in women's sunglasses?

So many old-school styles are popular, including oversized shapes, round, square, and oval shapes, as well as the classic cat-eye. In terms of patterns, tortoiseshell still reigns supreme and there’s an increased emphasis on the use of recycled materials. There has also been a vintage revival ongoing and an introduction of sunglasses with integrated technology, such as built-in cameras and speakers. 

How do I choose sunglasses that complement my face shape?

The key to choosing the right pair of sunglasses is going with a style that compliments your face shape. With so many styles to choose from, that shouldn't be a problem. If you have a round face, try to shop angular or square frames that help balance out your features. Square face shapes will look good with oval or round shapes and heart-shaped faces look best with wide frames that balance their features.  

Some tips for finding sunglasses that suit your personal style and wardrobe

Your sunglasses should fit your style and wardrobe, so it’s a good idea to browse through your clothing before you shop for a pair of sunglasses and try to imagine wearing the pair of sunglasses with a few different outfits you love. When choosing frame and lens colors, consider the colors you wear often, but also what complements your skin tone and hair color. Abi Nelson, Supply Chain Manager at Bayfields Opticians and Audiologists, recommends considering your face shape and choosing a pair of sunglasses that flatter your features.

What are the different lens options available and what do they do?

Not all lenses are created equal. Although they tend to be pricey, the gold standard for sunglass lenses is polarized lenses, as these are designed for optimal protection from the sun and are efficient at cutting back on glare so you can see most clearly. Photochromic lenses are a solid second, since they automatically darken when they’re in sunlight and can provide ample sun protection. Colored lenses go a long way, too, to reduce eye strain and improve contrast. 

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Which brand is best for women's sunglasses?

There are so many great brands on the market for women’s sunglasses. Some of the most popular include Ray-Ban, Warby Parker, and Quay Australia. These brands also make some of the best sunglasses for men as well, so if you’re in the market for a gift, it’s one-stop-shopping.

Which sunglasses are best for eye protection?

The best sunglasses for eye protection are polarized lenses that offer 100% protection against the sun’s harmful UV rays. If they’re not polarized, check that they still offer protection against the sun, as well as glare, so you can see clearly even in direct sunlight. 

Dr. Hilal-Campo also points out that sunglasses with larger frames and lenses, especially wraparound styles, will provide the most coverage to the eye area. “Ultimately, sun goggles, like those you'd use skiing, will give you the most comprehensive protection, but wearing those on a daily basis isn't realistic,” she adds.

What are some considerations for prescription sunglasses for women?

When shopping for prescription sunglasses, make sure that the pair blocks out 100% of the UV lights, as this is recommended by the American Optometric Association. You also want to make sure that the brand makes it easy to order your specific prescription with their style and lens offering.

How do I clean and maintain my sunglasses?

Cleaning your sunglasses regularly will help protect them from damage and enhance their longevity. Dr. Hilal-Campo recommends always keeping your sunglasses in their case when they're not in use. “It's very easy for lenses to get scratched and this will affect the integrity of the lens, so store your sunglasses carefully,” she says. 

You'll want to clean them carefully, too, especially if you've been at the beach, as sand can abrade the lens if you don't notice it while cleaning. “To properly clean your sunglasses, rinse them under warm water to loosen any dirt or debris, then rub a small drop of dishwashing liquid on each lens to break down oils and other buildup,” Dr. Hilal-Campo says. “You should also clean off the nose pads, the temples of the glasses, and the inside of the frame, as these are the parts that come into contact with your face regularly.” 

After you've rinsed away the soap, she recommends either air drying your sunglasses or using a lint-free towel or microfiber cloth. Store them in their case when not wearing them to prevent scratches or other types of damage.