Oval sunglasses inspired by the 1990s continue to be a feature of the independent eyewear collections. The most alluring styles from independent designers are sculptural with subtle curves and definition in the eye-catching detailing and handcrafted bevelling
A feminine classic, worn by icons and adored by designers, the oval sunglasses style is a summer essential again this year. Reemerging as a favourite shape for several seasons, this summer the style comes in interesting sculptural iterations, with playful layering and thicker constructions creating a new distinctive character in each look. Above: Tanger by Lafont Paris
Lafont Paris interprets the femininity of the oval style through its historic archives. Model Tanger is the latest in a long line of Lafont ovals, dating back through decades and produced in the Jura using traditional artisanal techniques. Like the collector’s Pacifique and the layered or “sculpted” Electre before it, model Tanger is a striking model this season – a celebration of femininity with a distinguished retro feel that conveys the brand’s rich heritage. Historic creative eyewear brands such as Lafont Paris continue to develop creative eyewear collections by means of their close and long-standing relationship with their makers in the Jura and a fastidious attention to specialist design concepts with fine workmanship to interpret every nuance and detail with precision. Find out more at www.lafont.com
One of the most influential oval-shaped styles of the 1990s – the Aldo by Selima Optique – has had an enduring success. The original model Aldo was worn by Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy at the time, and became her signature eyewear shape. The Carolyn sunglasses, based on the original Aldo were worn by the actress playing Carolyn – Sarah Pidgeon – in the 2026 TV series Love Story. This frame comes in a variety of colours including auburn tortoise and classic black. www.selimaoptique.com
Cal Akoya by Komono is part of “Turritella”, an edition that celebrates vibrant colour, fluid forms and the power of creativity rooted in nature. These frames have curves, contours and details with an organic look inspired by Turritella shells – the elongated tower shells that have a distinctive twisted effect. www.komono.com
This feature is by Clodagh Norton / www.eyestylist.com. We selected three frames by independent eyewear brands to reflect the current popularity of the sculptural oval-shaped eyewear designs. AI was not used in the process. All rights reserved.