Shield Sunglasses Are Back: Here’s Everything You Need to Know
Introduction. Rise. Peak. Decline. Obsolescence. Those are the five stages of fashion trend lifecycles. But judging by the recent years, another stage should be added to this list – resurgence. This coveted sixth stage is reserved for fashion trends that have left such a lasting impact on the fashion world that they can make a triumphant return, captivating new generations of fashion lovers.
Currently (and as things stand for the foreseeable future), it’s all about the Y2K revival. And where’s Y2K fashion, there are shield sunglasses.
From high-fashion designers to celebs, no one can seemingly escape the allure of these sleek, futuristic shades that defined the turn of the millennium. So, let’s dive into this fascinating eyewear trend and equip you with all the information you need to rock shield sunglasses confidently.
What Are Shield Sunglasses?
Before exploring the big return of shield sunglasses, let’s go back to the basics – what defines these eyewear accessories?
Well, their name is pretty suggestive – these accessories are meant to shield your eyes completely. Unlike most “traditional” sunglasses, shield sunglasses don’t have two lenses. Instead, they consist of a single lens that typically covers the entire eye area (hence, the “shield”).
Though their initial purpose was protective, designers quickly found ways to play with this huge “canvas” to create fascinating designs. They also played with color, resulting in shield sunglasses with boldly colored lenses and frames. While the all-black moment will always be a fan favorite, you can also rock shield sunglasses with gradient, reflective, and even neon lenses.
Since shield sunglasses are defined by their mono-lens design and not a particular shape, you can find them in a huge variety of styles. This is great news for people with small faces and those who struggle to find the right pair of sunglasses for their face type. There’s no doubt about it – you’ll be able to find the perfect shield sunglasses. You just have to find a flattering style.
Below, you’ll find some of the most popular shield sunglasses styles, showcasing the versatility of this eyewear trend.
Aviator Shield Sunglasses
Trends come and go, but aviator sunglasses will always be in style. Pair their recognizable shape with the “layout” of shield sunglasses, and you get timeless and stylish accessories for your wardrobe. Aviator sunglasses can look great on almost all face shapes.
Shield Goggles
Do you want to go skiing but make it high fashion? No problem; shield goggles have got you covered. These sunglasses look much like traditional ski goggles – the bridge is designed for optimal coverage, ensuring protection against wind and snow, while wide temples provide a secure fit. But they also appear significantly less bulky and more sleek, allowing you to combine fashion with functionality.
Cat-Eye Shield Sunglasses
Cat-eye sunglasses are striking on their own. Combine their eye-catching shape with a mono-lens design, and you’re looking at a jewelry-level beautiful accessory. These sunglasses will look spectacular on diamond-shaped faces but will also complement rectangle and oval shapes.
Oversized Shield Sunglasses
By their very design, shield sunglasses are bigger than most styles. Make them oversized, and you also make a bold fashion statement. So, it’s no wonder most of the shield sunglasses celebs rock fall under this category. Such a huge frame will do wonders for a round face shape.
Rimless Shield Sunglasses
Rimless shield sunglasses are another trend celebs love. As their name suggests, these sunglasses lack the frame around the lenses. This gives them a minimalist yet futuristic look that will undoubtedly turn heads. A diamond face shape will look stunning with this frame.
Sport Shield Sunglasses
Sport shield sunglasses are primarily designed with high performance and functionality in mind. Thanks to a protective bridge and wide temples, these sunglasses won’t budge whether you’re hiking or running the New York City marathon. And best of all? You’ll look fabulous while sweating! What’s more, you don’t really need to limit these sunglasses only to sports activities. Combine them with a trendy athleisure outfit and go anywhere in style.
Why Wear Shield Sunglasses
If we needed to describe shield sunglasses in only two words, they would be “effortlessly cool.” Still, it’s perfectly understandable if you’re on the fence about wearing these sunglasses, especially if you’re used to a more traditional style. But allow us to tell you why you should buy these unique accessories and then decide for yourself.
A Timeless Design
Judging by how popular shield sunglasses have been in different decades, it’s obvious that their design has stood the test of time. Thanks to many variations of this style, you’ll always be able to find shield sunglasses that match the current trends and your fashion preferences.
Incredible Versatility
The ability of shield sunglasses to adapt to virtually any fashion style deserves a special mention on this list. Whether you’re going for a sporty look, NYC street style, or high-fashion goodness, there are shield sunglasses that can match your outfit. Play with the color of the lenses, the detailing on the frame, and the overall shape of the sunglasses, and you’ll always have striking accessories people will want more information on.
A Bold Statement
If you aren’t into jewelry but love accessories, oversized shield sunglasses are all you need. These beauties make quite a fashion statement and instantly elevate any outfit, no matter how basic it might appear. Since these sunglasses aren’t as common as other types (e.g., wayfarers), they will undoubtedly stand out from the crowd, taking them with you.
Impressive Protection
The best thing about shield sunglasses is that they’re as functional and protective as they’re aesthetically pleasing. In other words, you get the best of both worlds. You get to look stunning while your eyes are fully protected from harmful UV radiation, thanks to the distinctive wraparound style of these glasses. For extra protection, shop for black shield sunglasses.
How Shield Sunglasses Made Their Big Comeback
Though shield sunglasses have been popular for decades, they’re seemingly reliving their peak in the 2020s. Interestingly, their initial peak happened during a decade with the same figures – the 2000s.
During the 2000s (or the aughts), eyewear could be described by a single word: bold. Celebs were prancing around Hollywood and NYC in huge, somewhat bug-eyed sunglasses that virtually covered half of their face. Paris Hilton was one of the first celebs to rock these shades wherever she went.
Interestingly, Paris is also one of the icons of the 2000s Gen Z has fully embraced, together with the legendary fashion elements of the time – low-rise jeans, Juicy Couture tracksuits, and shield sunglasses.
But is Gen Z’s love for all things 2000s what brought about the revival of shield sunglasses? For the most part, yes. This generation has proved highly influential and trend-setting, thanks to their ability to put a modern twist on classic styles.
However, fashion designers have also (re)embraced the Y2K style, resulting in futuristic shield sunglasses parading down the runways of fashion giants like Balenciaga and Gucci. Naturally, this also compelled celebs to lean into the Y2K nostalgia and incorporate shield sunglasses into their street style, off-duty fits, photo shoots, and even red carpets.
Check out some of our favorite examples of celebs rocking shield sunglasses and shop your favorite style.
Paris Hilton
Once a queen of shield glasses, always a queen of shield glasses. Paris can’t seem to get enough of Giant Vintage’s shield sunglasses, sporting them every chance she gets. Our favorite is undoubtedly the silver ZIPPER sunglasses she donned as a part of her Halloween costume. For Halloween 2023, Paris dressed as another 2000s legend, Britney Spears, sporting the iconic blue flight attendant ensemble from the “Toxic” music video.
Kim Kardashian
Kim Kardashian, Paris’s bestie from the 2000s, is also a huge fan of shield sunglasses, especially the oversized variety. She’s been rocking these beauties everywhere, from glamorous red carpets to tropical islands, paired with nothing but a cute bikini. Mimic Kim’s style with designs like BOOM and TRUTH from Giant Vintage.
Blue Ivy Carter
One look at Blue Ivy Carter and one thing becomes clear – she gets it from her mama! Though Beyoncé prefers a more seductive, cat-eye style, Blue has been seen rocking the ZIPPER shield sunglasses on her mom’s iconic Renaissance World Tour.
Of course, that’s not the only thing she’s been rocking on the tour, as no one can get enough of her dance moves during the anthemic “My Power” number.
Jordyn Woods
When Jordyn Woods appeared at the London Fashion Week, all eyes were on her for two reasons – her risqué outfit and her shades. The shades in question are LITHIUM shield sunglasses, which gave Jordyn’s outfit a futuristic vibe.
Interestingly, her sister (and clone!), Jodie Woods, is also a fan of True Vintage, but her choice is the ever-popular ZIPPER model. The same goes for the gorgeous Nicole Scherzinger.
How to Style Shield Sunglasses
By now, you’re probably all in on the idea of sporting shield sunglasses. So, let’s help you find the inspo for your next outfit featuring these striking accessories.
Keep It Simple
When wearing shield sunglasses, you don’t have to go all out and turn into a walking Y2K billboard. It’s quite the opposite, really. You can pair these shades with a simple white tank and jeans and effortlessly capture the early 2000s style without going overboard.
Go for Casual Vibes
Shield sunglasses can be your accessories of choice, even if you’re just running errands across New York City or taking a casual stroll in your local park. Combining them with a graphic tee, black sweatpants, and chunky sneakers gets you that perfect laid-back yet effortlessly cool everyday fit.
Stay On-Trend
Are you all about Y2K? If so, shield sunglasses probably won’t be the only homage to this style. Go all out with a bomber jacket and a fitted jumpsuit, and you’ll fully embrace this iconic style.
Chic It Up
If you want to look chic, black is always a good idea. Opt for all-black shield sunglasses with a sleek design and pair them with an equally chic outfit. Our suggestion? Black high-waisted pants, a black blazer, and a thin white sweater. But, of course, you can also always go for an “all-black everything” moment.
Stay Active in Style
Shield sunglasses resembling ski goggles are the perfect choice for hitting the slopes. Match them with a fitted one-piece suit and a puff jacket for a more fashionable ski fit. Suppose you prefer functionality. No problem! Embrace a sporty look by pairing shield sunglasses with your classic ski attire.
Where to Shop for Shield Sunglasses
By now, one thing should be pretty clear – Giant Vintage is the perfect shop for your shield sunglasses needs. Need further convincing? Visit the brand’s Shield & Sporty collection, and you’ll immediately understand the appeal. Whatever sunglasses your outfit (or taste!) calls for, Giant Vintage probably has them in stock.
Do you have any questions about the brand or the shield sunglasses? Reach out to our team using the Contact page, and we’ll be happy to assist you.
