5 fashion glasses styles to upgrade your bespectacled look

Updated JUN 5, 20233 min read

fashion glasses for women

a GlassesUSA.com blog

When glasses were first invented, they were little more than a lens that was somehow transformed to make it easier to see. And when mass-market eyeglasses became available sometime in the mid-20th-century, they were pretty much all the same. Forget fashion glasses frames, pretty much the only frames available were harsh black frames for men with a hint of wire, and modified unflattering cat-eye frames for women. Lucky for us, things have changed, and these days we have a bounty of fashion glasses frames available. 

We identified a few fashion styles along with some of our favorite frames for you to enjoy.


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Style 1

Aviator frames

Did you know that aviator sunglasses were first developed for jet fighter pilots? They became popular with men and some daring women in the 1980s when the movie Top Gun hit theaters. Most aviator frames are made of metal, though you might see a lightweight acetate in the mix. A double bridge is also pretty much standard along with a modified tear shaped lens.

Style 2

Mid-century mod meets nerd chic

Just a few short paragraphs ago we touched on the early history of glasses frames. Back when Buddy Holly ruled the music charts, his extremely nerdy eyeglasses frames were considered the epitome of chic. Okay, not really. They were just about the only frame available for men, with a thick brow and thinner part that framed the lens. 

Eyeglasses have evolved a lot since the 1950s and while the basic shape might seem similar, everything else has changed. From the lighter weight elements, advanced colorways and clever design, these are not your grandpa’s glasses.

We are big fans of these fantastic Muse Philly frames, with butterscotch colored details and nose pads for extra comfort.

Style 3

Updated cat-eye

There’s a reason that cat-eye shaped frames are popular again. While it’s not a universally flattering shape, the cat eyes comes pretty close to being one of the most flattering shapes out there. Choose a candy-colored acetate for a playful look, or titanium if you prefer a light frame over all. 

We’re totally digging these Muse Wilde frames which would look equally chic on Audrey Hepburn or H.E.R.

Style 4

Silver/Gray with extra details

Gray is hot right now in everything from manicures, to hair to your eyeglasses. While gold is always classic, silver gray sends a different message entirely. Gray is laid back while also statement making. Unlike white which can be a bit much, gray tells people that you don’t have to shout to be noticed. Gray glasses frames also look amazing with darker hair, those with silver tips and even redheads. If you’re blonde, try to avoid greenish grays and instead look for more silvery gray or gray with blue undertones. 

The deceptively simple design of these Muse Defender frames makes them look like they’re only silver gray. Take a closer look and you’ll see the thinnest tortoise shell detailing as well. 


One thing to keep in mind when wearing silver gray frames though, is that you’ll probably need a bit more makeup. Soft rosy pinks, sheer mauve or lightest lilac color washes on your eyes or lips will flatter skin that might look a bit washed out in gray frames. 

women fashion glasses

Style 5

Sculptured frames

If you’re bored of your current frames, you can have some fun with frames that take center stage. Look for dark, bold colors – think black , purple, navy or burgundy, and very architectural shapes. Anything rectangular, square, round or even frames with an added edge are very hot right now.

Use the virtual glasses try on feature to make sure that the shape flatters the shape of your face. When in doubt, oval looks good on most faces. 

We can’t get enough of these Muse Ritter which would look fantastic on a club kid or a college professor.

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Published October 20, 2022|Updated June 5, 2023

blog author
Rachel Weingarten

Rachel Weingarten is an award-winning author of 3 non-fiction books. She’s also a beauty historian and former celebrity makeup artist. Rachel is a long-time columnist for Parade and writes most often for outlets including Millie, The Girlfriend, The Costco Connection, and many more. She’s widely quoted about trends and culture in outlets including the Daily Beast, CNN, Forbes, Glamour Magazine, Teen Vogue, and others.