Paula Burrows
May 29, 2024
Style Guide: How To Wear Cat Eye Sunglasses
Cat eye sunglasses have remained a timeless accessory, bringing a touch of vintage glamour to contemporary fashion. Their unique shape, characterised by an upward sweep at the outer edges, echoes the elegance of vintage styles while adding a modern flair. In this YOOVY style guide, we'll explore the allure of this style of sunglasses, including how to wear cat eye sunglasses, and how to effortlessly incorporate them into your wardrobe. We'll also spotlight our YOOVY Larbreck sunglasses, a softer interpretation of the classic cat eye, and how they can elevate your look without veering into extreme styles.
What Are Cat Eye Sunglasses?
Cat eye sunglasses are a shape of eyewear and the form is closely related to the browline style but are distinguished by having an upsweep at the outer edges that resembles a cat's eye. This design not only enhances the cheekbones but also adds an air of mystery and allure to the wearer. Over the decades, the shape has evolved, offering variations that range from bold and dramatic to subtle and understated, like the YOOVY Larbreck style sunglasses.
Different Types of Outfit Inspiration
The cat eye silhouette first became prominent in the 1950s and 1960s when they were popularised by icons such as Marilyn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn. This design became synonymous with feminine sophistication and a hint of playful mischief. Hepburn's appearance in "Breakfast at Tiffany's," wearing a pair of sleek, black cat eye sunglasses, cemented their status as a symbol of chic elegance. From this point onwards, black cat eye sunglasses were a must-have fashion accessory.
Now let’s take a look at some outfit inspiration so you can bring this iconic fashion accessory to your own roster of looks.
Casual Day Out
For a relaxed, daytime look, pair your cat eye sunglasses with a simple yet stylish outfit. Think along the lines of high-waisted jeans, a crisp white t-shirt, and a pair of comfortable trainers. The YOOVY Larbreck sunglasses, with their softer cat eye shape, complement this casual ensemble perfectly, adding a touch of sophistication without overpowering the laid-back vibe.
Office Chic
Cat eye sunglasses can seamlessly transition into your workwear wardrobe. Pair a tailored blazer and trousers with a silk blouse and heels. Opt for the YOOVY Larbreck sunglasses in a neutral colour to maintain a professional appearance while adding a stylish edge. This combination strikes the perfect balance between business-like efficiency and fashionable flair.
Weekend Brunch
Heading out for a leisurely brunch? Cat eye sunglasses can elevate your outfit effortlessly. A floral midi dress paired with espadrilles and a wide-brimmed hat creates a chic, summery look. The softer design of the YOOVY Larbreck sunglasses blends beautifully with the feminine and relaxed style, making it an ideal choice for weekend outings.
Evening Elegance
Cat eye sunglasses aren't just for daytime wear; they can also enhance your evening attire. For a night out, consider wearing a sleek jumpsuit or a little black dress with statement jewellery. Why not opt for the YOOVY Larbreck sunglasses in Classic Black or the Larbreck sunglasses in Tortoise to add a touch of glamour? Either of these would perfectly complement your sophisticated evening look.
Iconic Style Inspiration: Audrey Hepburn
Audrey Hepburn remains an enduring style icon, particularly for her association with cat eye sunglasses. Her elegant, understated approach to fashion provides a wealth of inspiration for incorporating these sunglasses into your wardrobe.
The Hepburn Look
If you’re keen to emulate Audrey Hepburn's timeless style, start with a pair of classic black cat eye sunglasses. For example, take the YOOVY Larbreck sunglasses, with their gentle upsweep, echo Hepburn's preference for sophisticated yet subtle accessories. Pair them with a simple, well-fitted dress or a chic trench coat. Add ballet flats and a structured handbag to complete the look. This ensemble will capture the essence of Hepburn's elegance and her ability to make a statement with minimal effort.
Modern Interpretations
While Audrey Hepburn's style is iconic, you can also modernise it to fit contemporary trends. For instance, mix her classic elements with current fashion pieces. Try adding a pair of cat eye sunglasses with a modern, oversized blazer and straight-leg trousers. Add a pair of ankle boots for a chic, updated version of Hepburn's timeless elegance.
The Versatility of Cat Eye Sunglasses
One of the best strengths of these luxury sunglasses is how versatile they are. They can be dressed up or down and can seamlessly fit into various style aesthetics. Whether you prefer a retro, vintage-inspired look or a more modern, edgy style, cat eye sunglasses can be the perfect accessory.
Retro Revival
For those who love a vintage aesthetic, cat eye sunglasses are a must-have. Pair them with polka dot dresses, high-waisted skirts, and retro hairstyles like victory rolls or a beehive. The YOOVY Larbreck sunglasses, with their softer shape, add a contemporary twist to this retro look, making it both nostalgic and fresh.
Contemporary Edge
Cat eye sunglasses are known for being an iconic and vintage eyewear style, but if your style is more contemporary then you shouldn’t disregard them altogether. Cat eye sunglasses can perfectly complement your look. You should opt for a sleek minimalistic frame that adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit without taking away from the outfit’s modern vibe. Take our word for it, cat eye sunglasses are a classic accessory and a forward-thinking fashion staple.
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Now that you know how to style cat eye sunglasses, here are some of our top practical tips for You!
Face Shape Considerations
When choosing cat eye sunglasses, consider your face shape. This style tends to suit a variety of face shapes, but there are some general guidelines to keep in mind. If you have a round face, opt for a more angular cat eye shape such as the Larbreck sunglasses to add definition. These would also suit square faces, balancing the strong jawline. Oval faces can typically pull off most styles, so feel free to experiment with different styles such as the Holker style sunglasses or the Eccleston style sunglasses.
Colour and Frame Selection
The colour and material of the frames can also impact the overall look. Black frames are timeless and versatile, while tortoise shell offers a warmer, classic appeal. For a bolder statement, try coloured frames or those with metallic accents, such as YOOVY’s Larbreck sunglasses in Smoke Grey.
Confidence is Key
And now for the best tip of all. No matter how you choose to style your cat eye sunglasses, confidence is the most important accessory. These sunglasses are designed to make a statement, so wear them with pride. Whether you're channelling the glamour of Audrey Hepburn or adding a touch of vintage charm to a modern outfit, cat eye sunglasses can enhance your look and boost your confidence.
For more information on luxury sunglasses available at Yoovy, check out the full range of sunglasses and eyewear.
Written by
Paula Burrows
Optometrist
Paula is the Optical Director at Yoovy and is responsible for our lab team to verify prescriptions and ensure your lenses are produced, assembled and quality checked before we despatch them to you.