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If you're tired of plain white, boring bathrooms, then you've come to the right place because, frankly, so am I. Here's the good news: Colorful bathrooms are on the rise—and I don't just mean colorfully painted or wallpapered walls. Prettied-up pastel bathroom fixtures are officially back! The editors of Country Living have long lauded preserving candy-colored tiles, but it's time to turn our attention to the colored fixtures—sinks, bathtubs, and even toilets—also worth saving. Below, I'm diving into the bathroom design trend, explaining how we got here, how you can bring the look home, and everything else you need to know.

Are Pastel Fixtures Trending?

Yes! And if you look at the history of bathrooms, that shouldn't be surprising. During the 1950s, pastel colors like bubble gum pink, powder puff blue, and dainty yellow dominated the world of bathroom design, and that aesthetic sweetness is enjoying a revival by modern designers and manufacturers. I'm seeing this expansion into color everywhere—especially as color-forward styles like maximalism continue to hold their own in the wider design ethos. ("There's research on how colorful spaces influence well-being for the better," says Ingrid Fetell Lee, designer and author of The Aesthetics of Joy.) We're also seeing plumbing and design companies adopt this color-forward mindset. In 2023, bathroom and kitchen giant Kohler reintroduced six of their retro colors to celebrate their 150th anniversary. Meanwhile, UK-based and designer-favorite bath brand Water Monopoly has cornered the market with their colorful tubs.

How to Bring the Look Home

Whether you embrace an existing piece or seek out a new one, pastel porcelain is a time-tested way to make your bathroom feel awash in character. Below, some of our go-to sources for sourcing bathroom fixtures and finds.

Go Vintage

Start your hunt for a vintage bathroom fixture at your local architectural salvage yard. Once you find a piece you love, antique plumbing expert Jill Wilson of LooLook Design advises feeling around to test its condition—especially any cast-iron tubs. "If [the bottom] feels like suede, that means the finish is too worn," she says.

If your piece is seriously pre-loved, you can usually remove stains with old-fashioned elbow grease and mild soap and water. A Mr. Clean Magic Eraser can tackle any leftover stains or water marks. Damage to cast-iron—think hairline cracks—is a harder fix, though. Professional refinishers, such as those at Miracle Method, may be able to help restore your piece.

Some of Our Favorite Online Sources for Vintage Bathroom Finds:

• LooLoo Design, Jill's business out of Round Top, Texas, is a great one-stop shop for all things vintage bathroom.

• Vintage Tile Shop, like the name suggests, is a great option for unique—and colorful—deadstock tile.

• Urban Remains, located in Chicago, is a great source for American-made vintage sinks, hardware, and more.

Shop New

Prefer something new or simply don't have the time to hunt? Below, I've rounded up some of my favorite sources for new colorful plumbing fixtures. While household brands such as Kohler have a great selection, I would also recommend checking out Etsy for smaller makers. (Always be sure to read reviews and consult with your plumber before purchasing any bathroom elements, new or old.)

If you aren't ready to fully commit to a pastel sink or tub, start small with hardware. American-made brand Phylrich has a wide selection of faucets, knobs, shower heads, and more in a variety of colors. (You can check out all their finishes here, including the 10 colors!)

Aspen Green Pedestal Sink

$704.85 at kohler.com

Blue Cast Iron Tub

$3649.00 at signaturehardware.com

Yellow Farmhouse Sink

€664.00 at etsy

Peach Toilet

$583.05 at wayfair.com

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Today is is National Ice Cream Day, so I've got frozen treats on the brain. A chocolate-dipped Good Humor bar is perfectly fine, but if you ask me, nothing beats digging into an ice cream sundae when you're craving an over-the-top dessert. What can I say? I'm a sugar fiend who used to bake for a living, so I tend to have a "more is more" mentality. Why have a plain scoop of ice cream when you can have multiple scoops with toppings?

Quick Overview

Dash My Mug Ice Cream Maker, Set of 2

$45 at Amazon

Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker, 1.5-Quart

$57 at Amazon

Zeroll 1020 Original Ice Cream Scoop

$24 at Amazon

Vollrath Stainless Steel Disher, 1 5/8-Ounce

$18 at Amazon

KitchenAid Corded Hand Blender

$100 at Amazon

See 5 more

But not all ice cream sundaes are created equal, and if you're a cold-confection maximalist like me, I'd like to spare you from disappointing dairy delicacies this summer. To that end, I enlisted some fellow dessert experts to share their pro tips for concocting the very best ice cream sundae at home.

A good sundae starts with good ice cream

We're fortunate to live at a time when decent ice cream can be found in most supermarkets, but if you want to take your sundaes to the next level? Homemade is the way to go. With the right gear, preparing a batch at home is easier than you'd think, and you'll be able to create the custom flavors of your dreams. Your 10-year-old self will thank you!

Amazon

Dash My Mug Ice Cream Maker, Set of 2

Step aside, coffee and tea — this might be the best use of mugs since hot chocolate was invented. I'll admit, I was skeptical when I first heard about these gimmicky-sounding gadgets, but I recently tried them out and ... consider me a convert.

If the thought of making ice cream at home is intimidating, these have your name on them. Really, they couldn't be easier to use — just make sure your mug(s) are frozen for at least 24 hours, then mix up your ice cream base (there's a recipe book included). Once your mug is sufficiently chilled (you want it to be really cold), you'll add your base to the mug, pop on the top (it's got a motorized paddle inside), turn it on and it'll start churning away. You can also add mix-ins of your choosing via the pour chute while it's running, and in about 20 minutes, you'll have ice cream.

$45 at Amazon

Amazon

Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker, 1.5-Quart

Making sundaes for the family? You're gonna need a bigger boat, I mean, machine, and given how straightforward this one is to use, I have a feeling you'll be milking it for all it's worth. 

Senior Home Editor Lisa Schweitzer was tasked with finding the best ice cream makers, and of all the machines she tested, this humble model impressed her most. "With the caveat that you must freeze the canister 16 to 24 hours in advance and that this Cuisinart machine is not ideal when taking work calls (it's quite noisy!), it's the easiest and most foolproof ice cream maker we tried. And the price is very reasonable at under $100," she says.

"Once you pop the dasher (aka paddle) into the bowl and place the cover on top, you simply turn on the machine and pour in your ice cream base. There's nothing to program or decide on. Just 20 minutes later, you've got creamy, delicious ice cream or sorbet. You can eat it right away, but you'll probably want to pop it in the freezer for a few hours to reach peak texture. There's no timer on this model, so you'll need to set your own and check the texture as you go. I had no issue with this."

$57 at Amazon

Scoops are essential

It might seem like an insignificant tool, but the ice cream experts I consulted have strong opinions about scoops! "An ice cream scoop is absolutely necessary," says pastry chef Abigail Dahan of the Michelin-starred Provenance in Philadelphia. Emilia Perillo, pastry sous chef at Philadelphia's Fitler Club, agrees, calling it a "must-have." If you've been scraping ice cream out of the pint with a spoon, it's time for an upgrade.

Amazon

Zeroll 1020 Original Ice Cream Scoop

"I prefer a metal one that you can warm up with warm/hot water for easy scooping," explains Perillo. I also like this style because it helps soften ice cream while you scoop via the warmth from your hands. The shape allows you to get a nice, round ball of ice cream, which makes for very aesthetically pleasing sundaes. I got mine from an ice cream shop in New York City, and if it's good enough for the pros, it's good enough for me. 

It also made Schweitzer's roundup of the best ice cream scoops. "This aluminum ice cream scoop has been around since 1935 and is a favorite among editors and professionals for its ability to scoop near-perfect orbs," she shares. "The handle is filled with heat-conductive liquid that captures the warmth of your hand and flows down to the scoop to ensure easy ice cream scooping and releasing."

$24 at Amazon

Amazon

Vollrath Stainless Steel Disher, 1 5/8-Ounce

Dahan opts for this more traditional lever version, which has a spring release to ensure your scoops pop out intact. If you prefer multi-use kitchen tools, this scoop can be used not just for ice cream, but also for portioning cookie dough and muffin/cupcake batter. Reviewers rave about its quality, saying, "The mechanism seems very strong and has held up nicely when scooping."

$18 at Amazon

Toppings, toppings, toppings!

A sundae without toppings is … not a sundae. "I love constructing a sundae with the holy trinity: an ice cream, a sauce and something crunchy," says Perillo. Paige Pendleton of Cuzzy's Ice Cream Parlor, my favorite scoop shop in Philly, adds, "You should always have your choice of ice cream, along with a homemade waffle, powdered sugar, maybe some Oreos … and if there's fudge or whipped cream, that's for sure going on." Add a banana to make it a split — and don't forget a cherry (you know, for your daily fruit intake).

Amazon

KitchenAid Corded Hand Blender

There's a time and place for whipped cream from a can, but if you ask me, one of the best ways to elevate a homemade ice cream sundae is to make your own. You don't even have to give your arm a whisking workout; I actually prefer to make whipped cream with an immersion blender, and this is the one I use at home.

It comes with a blending pitcher, so just pour in your heavy cream, some confectioner's sugar to taste, a splash of vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Use the blender to whip the cream, and it'll have the most luxuriously smooth, rich texture. I could eat a bowl of it on its own!

$100 at Amazon

Amazon

Cuisinart Sauce Pan, 1.5-Quart

Hershey's chocolate syrup might be classic, but homemade hot fudge is next-level. It comes together quickly on the stove with a few simple ingredients. There are plenty of recipes you can follow online, and most consist of heating chocolate, cocoa powder, sugar, cream, butter and salt together in a saucepan. In mere minutes, you'll have a glossy sauce you'll want to pour over everything.

I like using a stainless steel pan like this; it's durable, affordable and distributes heat evenly. Plus, its handle stays cool and it has a handy measuring guide printed inside. You can also use it to make homemade caramel sauce, butterscotch, strawberry sauce ... whatever floats your banana boat.

$22 at Amazon

Amazon

Supernatural Rainbow Crunchies

As for adding some texture, rainbow sprinkles are the way to go, if you ask me. I opt for natural food coloring when I can, and these plant-based sprinkles are plenty vibrant — they'll liven up any dessert you make. Plus, I love how their crunchier texture contrasts with smooth ice cream. 

$12 at Amazon

Your sundae is served

Ice cream connoisseurs don't just grab any old bowl from the cabinet to serve their sundaes in. Pendleton says you'll want to use "a big bowl — enough to hold all of your toppings and keep your hand from getting too cold." Dahan agrees, adding that "a large bowl with high walls so the toppings can be piled on without falling over" is necessary.

Amazon

Imeea Insulated Ice Cream Bowls, Set of 2

Want to keep your ice cream from melting too quickly? These thoughtfully designed vessels boast double-wall insulation to keep things cold so you can savor the sweetness longer — but your hands won't feel it from the outside. Because they're made of stainless steel, they're virtually indestructible — and once winter rolls around? They'll keep soup hot too.

$25 at Amazon

Amazon

CucinaPro Pizzelle Maker

Edible bowls are also an option — and an elite one at that. Instead of a traditional waffle cone/bowl maker, Perillo prefers a pizzelle press: "I've even used it to make Choco Tacos!" If you can use a waffle iron, operating this machine will be a piece of cake.

$50 at Amazon

Amazon

Zenfun Glass Tulip Sundae Cups, Set of 6

You can't go wrong with an old-school sundae dish, either. "My must-have vessel for an ice cream sundae is a chilled dessert glass," says Perillo. "I thrifted a beautiful set of tulip sundae glasses that make perfectly portioned sundaes." (Cue: Nostalgia overload!)

$24 at Amazon

If you have Amazon Prime, you'll get free shipping, of course. Not yet a member? No problem. You can sign up for your free 30-day trial here. (And by the way, those without Prime still get free shipping on orders of $35 or more.)

The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.

Sunglasses are instrumental for adding a certain je ne sais quoi to any street style look and, in my opinion, are necessary to own in multiple colors to coordinate with your color scheme of the day and up the cool factor of an outfit.

Quick Overview

Best wayfarer

Quince Walker Polarized Acetate Sunglasses

$50 at Quince

Best budget

Sungait Classic Half Frame Sunglasses

$17 at Amazon

Best aviators

Lvioe Aviator Acetate Sunglasses

$50 at Amazon

Best oval

Quince Mallorca Polarized Acetate Sunglasses

$50 at Quince

Best cat-eye

J.Crew Bungalow cat-eye sunglasses

$60 at J.Crew

See 5 more

But if the words "proper UV-protective eyewear" make you worried that you'll have to toss your favorite stylish sunnies, take it from a style editor with a collection of nearly 20 sunglasses (hi), plus stylists and an optometrist and ophthalmologist: There are tons of top-rated sunglasses for women out there.

We found the cutest sunnies in every shape, color and style that also offer UV protection and polarization, all without crushing your savings. You don't even have to know where to look — we've done the work for you.

The best sunglasses for women in 2026

Quince

Best wayfarer

Quince Walker Polarized Acetate Sunglasses

Style: Wayfarer | Frame material: Acetate | Colors: 3 options | UV protection: Yes | Polarized: Yes | Lens color: Green

Why we love it: There are the sunnies that are brought out occasionally to be worn with certain colors or outfits, and then there are the sunnies that can permanently live in your bag because they're so versatile. These are the latter. Between the classic dark lenses, the subtle metallic detailing, the universally-flattering shape and the $50 price point, I'd recommend these to any folks who need a solid, stylish baseline pair of sunglasses, whether you want the best pair for women or sunglasses for men.

What our experts say: "The Quince Walker gives you that classic, slightly borrowed-from-the-boys sunglass shape without feeling too heavy," says Aricia Symes, stylist and founder of personal styling company Unfoldid. "The square, Wayfarer-style frame is especially good for round, oval or softer face shapes because the angles add a little definition and structure."

Keep in mind: These are currently only available in a wide width. Also, in our Quince review, we found that the brand promises sometimes fell short in the quality and materials department — but customers noted being happy with the quality of these glasses with one even comparing them to Ray-Bans (calling it "the pricey 'R' brand") quality at half the cost.

Pros

• Incredibly versatile, easy to style
• Universally flattering
• Mid-range price point

Cons

• Only available in wide widths

$50 at Quince

Amazon

Best budget

Sungait Classic Half Frame Sunglasses

Style: Wayfarer | Frame material: Plastic | Colors: 16 options | UV protection: Yes | Polarized: Yes | Lens color: Brown

Why we love it: There's nothing worse than losing a splurgey, $200 pair of sunglasses on a beach trip, which is why an affordable pair that won't hurt to lose is necessary. This stylish half-frame Sungait pair offers UV protection and polarization and can be replaced for just $17.

What our experts say: "These Sungait sunglasses are a smart budget-friendly pick if you want a classic shape with a little retro personality," says Symes. "The semi-rimless frame gives definition across the brow, which can work especially well on round, oval or longer face shapes because it adds structure without feeling too heavy."

Keep in mind: A few reviewers mentioned that the frames felt a little narrow on their faces. One noted that the lens detached from the frame after a few uses but that the company's customer service quickly replaced their broken glasses with a new pair.

Pros

• Affordable
• Stylish and versatile
• Classic shape with a retro vibe

Cons

• May run a little narrow
• Customers occasionally report quality issues

$17 at Amazon

Amazon

Best aviators

Lvioe Aviator Acetate Sunglasses

Style: Aviator | Frame material: Plastic | Colors: 3 options | UV protection: Yes | Polarized: Yes | Lens color: Brown

Why we love it: These are a stylish take on the classic aviator style with tortoiseshell frames instead of wire ones that look less Top Gun, more glam. The bold frames offer a dramatic look and give more coverage than a smaller shape, making these ideal for sun protection or hiding tired eyes.

What our experts say: "Aviators are one of those shapes that can instantly make an outfit feel more relaxed and cool," says Symes. "The style can skew sporty or polished depending on how you style them, which is part of their appeal. I like this Lvioe pair as an accessible way to get that classic aviator look with polarized lenses." Bonus: there are no nose pads to get tangled in your hair.

Keep in mind: The frames are 150mm or 5.9 inches across, making them a wider-than-average frame. Note that there is no narrow option currently available for those who prefer a smaller frame.

Pros

• Stylish, functional spin on wire-frame aviators
• Oversized shape
• Trendy tortoiseshell design

Cons

• May be too wide for certain face shapes

$50 at Amazon

Quince

Best oval

Quince Mallorca Polarized Acetate Sunglasses

Style: Oval | Frame material: Acetate | Colors: 2 options | UV protection: Yes | Polarized: Yes | Lens color: Grey/brown

Why we love it: Celebs like Hailey Bieber and Sarah Pidgeon as Caroline Bessette-Kennedy in Love Story have been bringing the '90s oval sunglasses back and I'm so here for it. The Quince Mallorca glasses may feel like less of a "safe" choice due to the smaller frames, but you'll find that they actually are easy to style thanks to the classic grey lenses and soft shape.

What our experts say: Symes describes this shape as "something softer than a square frame but still polished." She continues: "The tortoise frame has an easy, timeless feel. I like this style for people who want sunglasses that feel feminine without being overly delicate." And as for how to style them? "They work beautifully with linen, sundresses, tailoring, beachwear and everyday summer outfits." Several customers even rave about how similar these are to a certain designer style. "I checked out Miu Miu sunglasses which costs $500+ and these are the same quality or even better! Get them, you wont regret it."

Keep in mind: Smaller lenses inherently offer less sun protection. Consider these more of a fashion statement with added UV-blocking benefits, rather than a go-to pair for properly shading your eyes on the sunniest, brightest days.

Pros

• Trendy '90s silhouette that's similar to designer pairs
• Small frame won't overwhelm the face
• Mid-range price

Cons

• Not as timeless

$50 at Quince

J.Crew

Best cat-eye

J.Crew Bungalow cat-eye sunglasses

Style: Cat eye | Frame material: Acetate | Colors: 6 options | UV protection: Yes | Polarized: No | Lens color: Orange/brown

Why we love it: Cat-eye glasses have a little upturn at the corners, giving a lifted appearance to the face and creating a sculpted look. This J.Crew pair brings a fun, funky energy to any vacation, beach trip or summer concert — and you definitely won't be accidentally mixing them up with anyone else's sunnies.

What our experts say: "This is the pair I would choose when you want sunglasses to add a little personality to the face," says Symes. "A cat-eye shape can be very flattering because it draws the eye upward, and this one has a retro feel without going too costume-y." And for how to style them: "I like it with simple outfits that need a finishing touch: a white tee and jeans, a shirtdress, a swimsuit and cover-up, or a casual summer dress. It is an easy way to make the whole look feel more styled."

Keep in mind: One customer noted that the dark brown version of these sunglasses are very dark, particularly around the lenses. "Makes wearing while driving especially challenging in all but very bright light," they wrote.

Pros

• Lifting, sculpting effect
• Funky, unique look
• A good finishing touch for outfits

Cons

• The lenses on the darker version are quite dark

$60 at J.Crew

Yahoo Shopping/Hannah Oh

Best square frame

Sanctuary Shift Blue Light Glasses

Style: Wayfarer | Frame material: N/A | Colors: 3 options | UV protection: Yes | Polarized: Yes | Lens color: Grey

Why we love it: Talk about versatility: This is actually a pair of clear, stylish blue-light glasses with a a magnetic clip attachment that instantly turns them into sunglasses. I love my pair — not only are the blue-light lenses perfect for working on a red-eye flight, the magnetic sunglasses attachment works so well that I forget it's removable at all.

What our experts say: "This is your most versatile pick if you want one frame that can work harder than a typical pair of sunglasses," Symes explains. "Because it is an optical-quality frame, you can also have it fitted with prescription lenses, clear lenses or sunglass lenses if you prefer not to use the clip."

Keep in mind: The sunglasses attachment is secure for everyday wear, but since they're magnetic, I wouldn't recommend these for high-activity — or high wind — days.

Pros

• Removable, magnetic tinted lens attachment
• Doubles as blue light-blocking glasses
• Can be fitted with prescription lenses

Cons

• Not ideal for active or windy days

$79 at Sanctuary

Amazon

Best no-slip

Goodr Toasted Marshmallow Magic Sunglasses

Style: Wayfarer | Frame material: Polymer | Colors: 15 options | UV protection: Yes | Polarized: Yes | Lens color: Brown

Why we love it: Goodr is known for its functional, affordable, no-slip sunglasses that you won't have to constantly push back up your nose. "[Goodrs] are the highest quality cheap sunglasses I own," wrote one Redditor on a post in r/running. These are designed with a lightweight yet snug fit on the face to avoid getting bonked on the nose bridge several times while jogging down the stairs.

What our experts say: Symes describes these as "casual, comfortable and hard-working." They're a rounded-off version of the standard square frame and "practical for walks, travel or beach days" thanks to the no-slip and no-bounce design. "The shape is especially useful if you want a little structure around the face, and the cream frame feels softer and more relaxed than basic black," she adds.

Keep in mind: If you're looking for a true pair of running sunglasses, we have a separate option on this list that is engineered specifically for runs. We recommend these Goodrs as a great stay-on-your-face option for other types of sweaty and/or active days.

Pros

• No-slip, no-bounce design
• Affordable
• Lightweight, comfortable fit

Cons

• Not designed for long runs

$35 at Amazon

Bloomingdales

Best statement

Otra Rio Shield Sunglasses

Style: Rectangular | Frame material: Plastic | Colors: 1 option | UV protection: Yes | Polarized: No | Lens color: Pink

Why we love it: These sunnies say "I'm a star" while also saying "no photos, please." They're bold and stylish with a splash of incognito. Designed by the original founding team that gave us Quay sunglasses, the light lenses may not look like much but they actually do offer 100% UV protection.

What our experts say: "This is the pair to choose when you want your sunglasses to be part of the outfit, not just something you throw on," Symes declares. "The shield shape gives more coverage than a traditional frame and has a sporty-glam feel that works especially well with simple clothes: a tank dress, linen set, swimsuit and cover-up or clean black basics." And as for the best face shapes for this unique style: "It works best if you like sunglasses with presence; on very petite or narrow faces, the scale may overpower the face rather than feel effortless."

Keep in mind: Though these offer full UV protection, the light lenses just might not be the best on super sunny days since they don't filter out as much light.

Pros

• Bold, stylish look
• Full UV-protection despite lighter lenses
• Lots of coverage

Cons

• Lighter lenses don't filter out as much bright light

$70 at Bloomingdales

Blenders

Best sport

Blenders Pacers glasses

Style: Rectangular | Frame material: Plastic | Colors: 5 options | UV protection: Yes | Polarized: Yes | Lens color: Orchid Flash

Why we love it: If you're a skier, you may recognize the Blenders brand from its iconic ski goggle offerings. No surprise that it makes great running sunglasses as well. Extra lightweight with curved arms that gently hug your head for extra security plus a wraparound polarized lens for great vision on the brightest, staring-right-into-the-sun runs make these under-$80 sunglasses worth it.

What our experts say: "These are so cool they might make you run faster," says Symes. "The Blenders Pacer takes a performance sunglass and makes it feel fun instead of overly technical. The wraparound shield shape gives more coverage, the no-slip fit makes sense for running or outdoor workouts, and the orchid color turns them into a real accessory. "

Keep in mind: Customers are all-around happy about the "off the charts" colors and excellent, no-slip fit. The only complaint mentioned is that they may be a little large for small heads — the brand does recommend them from medium to large head sizes.

Pros

• Stay-put fit for running
• Lightweight, wraparound frame
• Cool, stylish colors

Cons

• Not great for small heads
• Pricey

$79 at Blenders

Ray-Ban

Best designer

Ray-Ban Original Wayfarer Square Sunglasses

Style: Wayfarer | Frame material: Acetate | Colors: 34 options | UV protection: Yes | Polarized: No | Lens color: Green

Why we love it: It doesn't get more iconic than the classic O.G. Ray-Ban Wayfarers that have been around since 1952. Our editors can confirm that they sit comfortably on the face and hold up beautifully for years and we love the customization options, from an optional low-bridge fit, polarized lenses and engraving.

What our experts say: "The Ray-Ban Original Wayfarer is a classic because it has real style authority without looking like it is trying too hard," Symes says. "I like Wayfarers when someone wants one pair that works with almost everything." The square frame works especially well for round, oval or softer face shapes, according to Symes, who says that it "adds definition."

Keep in mind: They're not the cheapest, but if you know you'll be able to get several years of use out of them (a.k.a. you're not the type who is constantly misplacing your sunnies), they're a great investment purchase.

Pros

• Classic silhouette that's stayed in style since the '50s
• Customization options
• Durable and great quality

Cons

• Splurgey

$191 at Amazon

Explore More Buying Options

$191 at Ray-Ban

How we chose the best sunglasses for women

My goal for this list was to find a selection of sunglasses that served both a practical function (protecting your precious peepers from the harsh UV rays and glare of the sun) as well as a sartorial one — helping you feel confident and stylish.

I started by researching 30 different pairs of sunglasses from various popular brands as well as recommendations from social media users and Redditors. Based on quality, price point and style, I narrowed it down to 10 pairs that span the aesthetic gamut while providing real, reliable protection at a reasonable price.

I also spoke to experts — ophthalmologists and fashion stylists — to get their take on the best sunglasses for building your accessories wardrobe as well as what glasses shapes are best for your face and what the difference between UV protection and polarization actually is before solidifying my final recommendations.

What to consider when shopping for the best sunglasses

The key to finding your perfect pair of sunnies is to cover the basics of eye protection while narrowing down the styles that suit your face shape and make you feel stylish and confident. We spoke to two stylists, an ophthalmologist and an optometrist to get the scoop on what to keep in mind as you shop.

Frames

While there are thousands of different sunglasses styles out there, most can be sorted into one of the following classic frame shapes:

• Rectangle frames are a timeless pick. The horizontal shape is typically angular and streamlined, giving definition to the face.

• Square frames have equal-length sides and are blockier than rectangular frames. While they tend to skew geometric, you can also find square frames that are softened and rounded out on the bottom.

• Round frames often have a stylish, bohemian look to them (they're reminiscent of the '70s) and are great for softening harsh angles.

• Oval frames have the same softening effect on the face as round frames do, but they offer more width and coverage, depending on how oversized they are.

• Wayfarer glasses have a slight trapezoid shape: wider on the top and rounded on the bottom. This frame style is based on the classic Ray-Ban Wayfarer frames.

• Cat-eye sunglasses are typically rounded on the bottom with pointed top corners. The upturned edges give the face a lifted appearance.

• Aviator frames were originally invented for pilots to wear while flying. They're teardrop-shaped with a distinctive double-bridge frame and often made of metal.

• Wrap-around silhouettes are typically used for sporty or outdoorsy occasions. The lenses aren't flat — instead, they curve around the face to offer greater sun and wind protection.

• Rimless frames are exactly what they sound like: no frame border, just the lenses for a minimal look and a lightweight feel.

• Browline/half-frame glasses feature a defined upper frame and a rimless lower half. This shape offers strong brow definition and a face-framing effect.

Face shape

Brendan Cannon, fashion stylist at Cannon Media Group, says it can sometimes be helpful to use your face shape as a guide to narrow down frame shapes and styles. He weighs in on some of the most common face shapes and the styles he often recommends for each one:

• Oval: "Most styles work well on oval faces, including aviators, square frames, cat-eye styles and oversized sunglasses," says Cannon. "The goal is to maintain the face's natural balance and not overwhelm it."

• Round: If you have softer angles or fuller cheeks, Canon says that he likes to recommend angular frames that create contrast and definition. Think square, rectangular, geometric or wayfarer styles.

• Square: "I like curved frames like round, oval and softer aviator shapes paired with the strong jawlines and angular features of a square face," says Cannon.

• Heart-shaped: Those with heart-shaped faces that feature narrower jaws and chins might like frames that are slightly wider at the bottom along with round, oval, rimless or lightly-framed styles. "Cat-eye styles can also work beautifully," Cannon notes.

• Diamond: If you have prominent cheekbones and a narrower forehead and chin, "oval, cat-eye, rimless or gently-curved frames highlight those cheekbones while softening angular features if that's something you're looking for," Cannon explains.

Materials

Though the lens is the most important part of a pair of sunnies, the material the frame is made of can impact the weight of the glasses and how they feel on the face as well as the overall style and appearance. Here are three common materials you'll see sunglasses made of:

• Acetate and other performance plastics offer durability and the ability to create rich colors. It's typically an affordable material.

• Metal gives a sleeker and more refined look. Depending on the thickness of the frame, they may be slightly heavier on the face.

• Titanium is "exceptionally strong, lightweight and corrosion-resistant, this is a premium option," explains Cannon.

Fit

Personal style is a big consideration, but keep in mind the practical security and coverage of your frames as well. Dr. Jennifer Wademan, VSP Network optometrist, mentions that she often recommends that her patients match the style of their sunglasses to their lifestyle.

If you play sports or are often participating in outdoor activities, she recommends "looking for styles that offer a secure fit and more coverage to help shield your eyes from UV exposure at multiple angles." If you're looking for a more casual pair for everyday wear, you have options ranging from classic, timeless wayfarers to funky colors and shapes available to you — just keep in mind that, according to Dr. Wademan, "It's still important that they provide adequate protection and fit well."

The size of your glasses matters too: "Larger lenses and wraparound styles can help reduce UV exposure from the sides, top and bottom of the frame," she explains, while smaller styles are trending but offer less coverage.

UV protection

The best sunglasses for women are also designed to help you maintain eye health for years to come. "Eye-care professionals see daily evidence that good sunglasses are far more than a fashion accessory," says Dr. Karen Allison, ophthalmologist and associate professor of clinical ophthalmology at the University of Rochester. "It's common for patients to present with eye conditions that could have been prevented — or at least significantly reduced — through consistent use of proper UV-protective eyewear."

This is the most important, non-negotiable feature of a pair of sunglasses — which is why every single pair on our list has UV protection. "Sun damage is cumulative over time and can increase the risk of conditions like cataracts and other eye health concerns," explains Dr. Wademan. "UV protection helps safeguard both your immediate comfort and your long-term eye health." Keep in mind that people with lighter eyes, those living at higher altitudes and those with a personal or family history of cataracts often have an increased sensitivity to UV rays and therefore a greater need to prioritize UV protection.

Lens color and tint

"One of the most common misconceptions is that darker lenses automatically provide better protection," says Dr. Allison. It turns out that darkness has nothing to do with UV filtering. "A pair of inexpensive, dark‑tinted glasses without proper UV protection can be more harmful than wearing no sunglasses at all, because the darkness causes the pupils to dilate, allowing even more damaging rays to enter the eye."

That being said, lens color does impact how you see the world around you and also makes an aesthetic difference.

• "Dark gray or brown lenses tend to feel classic and sophisticated," Cannon says.

• Amber or green lenses offer good contrast with decent color balance.

• "Colored or mirrored lenses create a more fashion-forward statement," Cannon explains.

• Lighter lenses (think yellow, gold, orange, etc.) are trendy but not as ideal for bright sunlight.

Polarization

What do polarized sunglasses actually do? "Though often mistaken for UV protection, the two are unrelated," Dr. Allison explains. "Polarized lenses reduce glare from reflective surfaces such as water, snow and pavement, making them particularly useful for driving, boating and outdoor sports."

Note that polarization alone doesn't block UV rays, although non-polarized glasses may still offer great UV protection if properly labeled as such.

Best sunglasses FAQs

Is it actually important to wear sunglasses?

Yes, it is. Wearing sunglasses is not just a style statement — it's also a preventative measure. "Conditions such as early cataract formation, pterygium, photokeratitis and even worsening dry eye symptoms often have a strong connection to cumulative ultraviolet exposure," Dr. Allison explains.

"Because these problems develop slowly over time, patients rarely connect their symptoms to years of unprotected sunlight, yet the link is unmistakable to those who treat them." Dr. Allison also explains that sunglasses are important all year long, not just during the summer or on sunny days. "UV radiation penetrates clouds and reflects off surfaces year‑round, making consistent protection essential regardless of season or weather.

How can you tell if your sunglasses are actually polarized?

Polarization is designed to reduce glare, and there are two nifty tests to check: try looking at a reflective surface (like water or the windshield of a car) and rotate your head to the side to see if the glare reduces as you tilt your head. You can also look a phone or computer screen with your glasses on and slowly rotate it away from your face. If, at some point, the screen goes dark, it's likely that your lenses are polarized.

What should people with low nose bridges look for in a pair of sunglasses?

If you have a lower nose bridge, you may struggle with sunglasses touching your cheeks or constantly sliding down your face. Look for glasses that are labelled "low-bridge fit" or "Asian fit" as they're likely to be a much more comfortable fit. "These sunglasses typically feature larger or adjustable nose pads and better clearance between the lenses and the cheeks," explains Cannon.

Meet our experts

• Dr. Karen Allison, ophthalmologist and associate professor of clinical ophthalmology at the University of Rochester

• Brendan Cannon, fashion stylist at Cannon Media Group

• Aricia Symes, stylist and founder of personal styling company Unfoldid

• Dr. Jennifer Wademan, VSP Network optometrist