Sep 27 The Cat-Eye is Catching On: Retro Eyewear Trend

Eyewear has become a major fashion staple, with top name designers adding optical collections to their resumes.  This season the eyewear industry is dominated by a glamorous retro vibe.  Oversized cat-eye frames are back and bolder than ever with intricate details and modern adaptations. Feminine and flirty, the cat-eye offers the perfect touch of retro charm.

Recently, WWD reported Nanette Lepore was chosen as the latest designer to collaborate with Vogue Eyewear to create limited-edition frames.  Inspired by 1920s actresses and using Emma Roberts as a muse, the designer created a covetable pair of cream-colored cat-eye shades.  Judging by the sketches, I think it’s safe to say these shades will be a hit when they land in Sunglass Hut stores in October.

For those who prefer a more unique set of shades, the Etsy shop Vintage50sEyewear offers a great selection of cat eye frames, ranging from the over-the-top embellished to the simple classics.

Tom Ford’s Nikita frames have become a celeb favorite, spotted on Scarlet Johansson, Rihanna, Kelly Osborne, and Kardashian sisters Kim and Kourtney. These shades are an excellent example of the modern cat-eye trend, but quite the splurge at $360. Luckily there are plenty of fashionable options for budget savvy consumers. Online retailer Asos incorporates the animal print trend with their contrast highbrow shades. Forever 21 has a great pair of floral frames for less than six dollars.

Although clearly evident in the sunglass department, the cat-eye trend can also be worn everyday with eyeglasses. In order to not date the style, look for a modified cat-eye in a classic shade with muted details. Versace nailed simple elegance pairing a black plastic frame with gold detailing at the temple.

However you wear them, cat-eye shades give that glimpse into old school glamour. What will you pair your cat-eye shades with this season?

-Annie

Photos by Kirk McKoy, LA Times (above right) and MCT (above left)
FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @FASHION_BLITZ

Follow @fashion_blitz