As winter casts its enchanting spell, fashion enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the opportunity to revamp their wardrobes with cosy and chic ensembles. While sunglasses may be traditionally associated with summer, incorporating vintage eyewear into your winter style can add a touch of timeless elegance to your cold-weather looks.
In this guide, we'll explore the art of seamlessly pairing vintage sunglasses with winter attire, offering tips to create seasonal outfits that are both practical and fashion-forward.
Choosing the Right Vintage Sunglasses
Before delving into the world of winter fashion, it's crucial to select the perfect vintage sunglasses that complement the season's aesthetic. Classic frames such as cat-eye, aviators and oversized square shapes never go out of style. Look for frames in rich, warm tones like tortoiseshell, deep burgundy or forest green, as these colours effortlessly harmonise with winter's palette.
Wearing sunglasses in the winter months also has practical benefits. Despite the cold weather, the sun isn’t afraid to make an appearance and shine brightly through the frosty air. Especially on those few days when we’re blessed with snow, the sun’s reflective rays can still have you squinting and wishing you had some sunnies on you.
On top of that, the dry, frosty air doesn’t bode well for your eye health, causing them to become dry, red and irritated the longer you’re outside. Sunglasses protect your eyes from this, all while offering you the perfect opportunity to add a stylish accessory to your winter outfits.
Our Favourite Winter Wardrobe & Sunglasses Combos
Cosy Glam: Fur-Trimmed Jackets & Oversized Sunglasses
For a luxurious winter look that seamlessly combines comfort and style, pair your vintage sunglasses with a fur-trimmed jacket - this Y2K inspired fashion staple has made a popular return, afterall. Opt for a neutral-coloured faux fur, such as cream or caramel, to create a sophisticated contrast with bold sunglasses.
Oversized or shield frames add an extra touch of drama to the ensemble. We think these Coca Cola Mod 14 501 frames are the perfect accessory for this style, creating a staple look that’s fit for both a trip to a ski chalet or a Christmas shopping day out down Oxford Street.
Complete the look with tailored trousers or a midi skirt in a complementary shade. Finish off with knee-high boots and you'll be ready to step out in style, exuding both warmth and elegance with that added touch of modernity and youthfulness.
Effortless Cool: Leather Jackets, Denim & Vintage Aviators
Channel your inner rockstar by pairing vintage aviator glasses with a classic leather jacket and denim ensemble. This timeless combination effortlessly blends rugged and refined elements, creating a look that exudes casual sophistication.
Choose aviators with gold or silver frames for a touch of glamour, and opt for a leather jacket in a deep, darker shade - we personally think a tan leather jacket is ideal, showing the natural texture of the fabric that is truly unique, whilst traditional black leather jackets are versatile and can easily be paired with multiple outfits.
If you want to add your own stamp on this classic style and really make a statement, then you could keep it traditional with the jacket but add these clear Haute Couture aviator frames for a contrasting touch.
Layer with a turtleneck for warmth and balance the edginess with a pair of well-fitted jeans. Complete the ensemble with Chelsea boots or stylish trainers, and you're ready to embrace the winter breeze with an air of effortless cool.
Chic Monochrome: Vintage Sunglasses & Winter Neutrals
For a polished and refined winter look, consider creating a chic monochrome ensemble using winter neutrals such as charcoal grey, camel or ivory. Choose vintage sunglasses in a complementary hue, creating a cohesive and sophisticated appearance.
Pair a tailored coat in a neutral shade with matching trousers, incorporating a cashmere jumper or a turtleneck underneath for a touch of cosiness. Classic ankle boots or chunky loafers will complete the look, ensuring you stay warm while exuding a timeless elegance that suits everyone regardless of age or gender.
Sophisticated Layers: Cat-Eye Frames & Trench Coats
Elevate your winter style with the classic combination of a trench coat and cat-eye sunglasses. The structured silhouette of the trench coat provides a sophisticated backdrop for the bold and feminine lines of cat-eye frames.
This pair of Think Pink vintage sunglasses are an excellent example of complementary frames for this look; the tortoiseshell print and gold hardware are understated yet effective, adding that final touch to this timeless outfit.
Tailored trousers or a midi dress can be paired seamlessly with this ensemble. As for shoes, Chelsea or knee-high leather boots add a touch of refinement whilst being practical to walk in on frosty ground. This outfit effortlessly combines vintage flair with modern sophistication, making it perfect for both casual and formal occasions.
Casual Comfort: Chunky Knits & Round Frames
For a laid-back yet stylish winter look, pair vintage round sunglasses with cosy chunky knits - think Amanda in The Holiday when she first arrives in England. This combination creates an effortlessly chic and comfortable outfit that's perfect for weekend outings or casual gatherings.
Choose round sunglasses with thin metal frames for a subtle and retro-inspired look. Pair them with a knit jumper or cardigan in a warm colour like mustard, rust or forest green and style with your favourite jeans or leggings for ultimate comfort. Complete the ensemble with some Timberland boots, and you'll achieve a look that effortlessly blends vintage charm with contemporary comfort.
The Ed & Sarna Winter Collection
As winter unfolds its icy charm, there's no reason to stow away your vintage sunglasses. Embrace the season with style by incorporating these timeless eyewear pieces into your winter wardrobe. From fur-trimmed jackets to trench coats, leather ensembles to chunky knits, the key lies in finding the perfect balance between vintage flair and cosy comfort.
By carefully curating your winter looks, you can effortlessly elevate your style, turning heads and staying warm with every step. So, venture into the winter wonderland with confidence, armed with these tips to stylishly pair vintage sunglasses with your favourite cold-weather attire.
Here at Ed & Sarna, we’ve curated a Winter Collection that we believe features a pair of sunglasses to suit everyone’s winter wardrobe. Shop the collection today or get in touch to learn more about our vintage frames.
