Luxottica is one of the biggest eyewear retailers in the world. Here, Earl Kopeldi, their Head of Marketing Retail, shares the latest trends in eyewear.
Glamour: What are the trendiest sunglasses styles for spring/summer 2025?
Earl: MINIMALIST AND RIMLESS DESIGNS, RETRO-INSPIRED FRAMES, CAT-EYE, AVIATOR REVIVAL, OVERSIZED FRAMES
Glamour: What would you say are some of the most exciting innovations happening with sunglasses?
Earl: SMART GLASSES: Some of the latest eyewear releases look like regular eyewear but integrate advanced features, like cameras, microphones, speakers and digital displays. They can overlay information onto the real world (augmented reality)or provide seamless, hands-free access to digital content. Key functions, though they’re not yet available in South Africa, include capturing photos and videos, making phone calls, streaming music, using AI assistants, real-time translation and navigation.
SUSTAINABILITY: Eyewear companies are making significant progress in reducing waste and pollution through sustainable practices. In the sunglasses industry, this means using eco-friendly materials like recycled plastics and bio-acetate, as well as energy efficient, low-waste production methods. Ray-Ban, for example, incorporates bio-based nylon in both its frames and lenses. This is made with at least 40% biological content from renewable sources like castor oil to reduce reliance on fossil-based materials. Brands are also innovating with recyclable packaging and programs to repurpose old frames.
Glamour: Which frames and brands are the most popular among your consumers?
Earl: RAY-BAN: One of the most popular eyewear brands globally, Ray-Ban is celebrated for their timeless style, iconic designs, versatile appeal, premium craftsmanship and functional innovation.
OAKLEY: Our leading sports and lifestyle brand, known for its innovative, high-performance eyewear that blends technology with style. Renowned for its durability, protection and a strong identity rooted in athletics and extreme sports, Oakley appeals to both athletes and everyday wearers.
MIU MIU: Currently in high demand, Miu Miu is admired for their playful yet sophisticated blend of retro and avant-garde styles crafted with premium materials. The brand offers distinctive designs that effortlessly elevate and complement a wide range of looks.
WAYFARERS: These sunglass styles are still one of the most popular. This year we are seeing reimagined versions like the Street Neat version with a sculpted brow bar and vivid colour combos, and the WayfarerPu er designed by A$AP Rocky.
SLIM DESIGNS: These include slim rectangular frames for a modern look; oval frames for a soft, timeless appeal; skinny aviators fora sleek and vintage vibe; semi-rimless options for a minimalist design; and slim cat-eyes for a chic statement.
Glamour: What are the key factors to consider when buying sunglasses?
Earl:LIFESTYLE —SUNGLASSES FOR DIFFERENT ACTIVITIES
Choose sunglasses designed to match your lifestyle — be it for performance, fashion or everyday comfort.
UV PROTECTION: Look for sunglasses that have 100%UVA and UVB protection and will block UV wavelengths of up to 400nanometres (UV400).
FRAME AND LENS MATERIALS: The material of your frames plays a key role in weight, durability and style.So, it’s important to choose one that fits your lifestyle and its intended use.For example, glass lenses may provide exceptional optical clarity but they are heavier and more prone to shattering, which can make them less suitable for high-impact sports or activities.
FIND THE RIGHT FIT: Sunglasses should fit comfortably — not too loose or too tight — and the lenses shouldn’t touch your eyelashes. To maximise UV protection, choose frames that properly cover your eyes. Larger styles shield more of your face, while wrap-around designs o er the best protection by blocking sunlight from both the front and sides.
COLOUR AND TINT: Lens colours and tints influence how you see through your glasses. Grey tints reduce brightness with minimal colour distortion, while amber tints enhance depth perception and improve visibility in low-light conditions.
POLARISATION: These lenses o er increased protection from the glare on surfaces such as water or snow. Polarised lenses are also beneficial for driving, boating, fishing and winter activities.
QUALITY: When choosing a pair of sunglasses, opt for reputable brands and always inspect the lenses for any distortion or discoloration.
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