Eyeglass Trends in 2022

Eyeglasses are one of the most personal accessories that serve both a functional and an aesthetic need at the same time. Whether you’re wearing bifocals, cheaters, prescription or sunglasses, most people pay as much attention to the quality of the lenses as to the design of the frames. And often the design takes the lead.

So what’s trending in 2022 styles? Our research shows some of the most popular frames and colors for the year.

Frames

Those retro cat-eyes that can turn any woman into a Catwoman look-alike are making a strong comeback, as they fit any face shape and they remain a classic throughout the years. And they’re coming back for eyeglasses as much as they are for sunglasses. With their accentuated triangular shape, they’re a bit of a statement piece on most faces, especially those with a defined jawline, as they draw attention to faces’ high points. Elle Fanning and Oprah Winfrey are big fans of the style.

Thick grim framed glasses are also gaining popularity. Gone are the days when these frames were the territory of college nerds or physicists. They tend to make a bold statement, adding gravitas and a splash of intellect to anyone’s look. Cate Blanchet and Gillian Anderson have been caught wearing thick frames with dark colors, which yield an interesting contrast to their blonde hair. However, these can be heavy on your face, especially on your nose. So it can be a good idea to get some quality nose pads to keep them in place, provide comfort and avoid leaving those annoying marks on your nose.

Wire frames are also having a big moment, with that light look and feel which gives the most seamless feeling in eyewear. Julie Walters and Jennifer Garner are big fans, as it minimizes the attention to their accessories, which instead goes mostly to their faces. Their only downside is that the thin nature of the frame does not work well with thick lenses or even bifocals. If you’re in the prescription category, this may not be your best bet.

Those 70s vintage style aviators are becoming the “boyfriend jeans” of the eyewear world. These are particularly popular in oversized versions and we’ve caught the likes of Sarah Jessica Parker or Alexandra Scott wearing them.

The Lennon look is also in with those circular glasses making a comeback. They’re kind of quirky and cool at the same time and provide a fun, “I don’t take myself too seriously” look. Julia Roberts and Selena Gomez have been having fun sporting these. 

Colors

Acetate frames are gaining traction, with that translucent quality that adds a dash of style. The clear, see-through look can also work as a contrasting device specifically for heavier frames. We’ve seen Éloide Frenk and Zoey Deutch looking quite stylish in them.

Pastels are also gaining popularity, given that softness they deliver. Coral, which is one of the “it” colors of 2022, can be seen often in its classic pastel tonality. 

Solid black continues to be the “new black,” as it’s a favorite for those who want to go the full nine yards with the thick grim frames boldness. 

For the less discrete, bright colors and even rainbow frames are also popular. We’ve seen Bella Hadid and Chantel Jeffries making no secret of their desire to shine in these.

Whatever your face shape, eyewear needs or personality, there are frames and colors for everyone. It’s up to you which trend to follow. Or perhaps create one of your own.