I'm an Accessories Expert—This Is the Item That Really Elevates an Outfit

If you asked me what the most underrated fashion item is, I’d have to say accessories. As style devotees, we at Who What Wear spend a lot of time discussing outfit formulas, finessing layering and ideating over shoe options, but truth be told, the power of a great look is held in the smaller details. Many of our daily uniforms skew minimalist, but occasionally, they can be so effectively pared down that they feel, well, too simple. The answer? Accessories, more specifically sunglasses. When an outfit needs a little extra something, sunglasses bring the injection of personality. And few sunglasses have as much personality as Vivienne Westwood’s new collection.

No matter our reason for wearing them (sunshine, long nights, or simply for the look), sunglasses are every editor’s secret weapon to looking put-together. Though the last few years were defined by ultra-slim styles, oversized silhouettes are now particularly favoured by fashion people. As always, Vivienne Westwood is already ahead of the game.

For summer 2023, Vivienne Westwood is looking back to the iconic silhouettes of the ’50s and ’60s. The new unisex collection explores the glamour and opulence of those decades with oversized shapes and light lenses that embody retro styling. Alongside these directional styles sit more classic styles with rounded lenses, cat-eye shapes and hexagonal nods, but all with a Westwood flair in the small details of the arms or the instantly recognisable Vivienne Westwood orb. A defining feature of the brand has always been focus on the environment, and this is shown through the collection. You’ll find frames and temple tips created through the use of innovative material, ‘Acetate Renew’, which is made from 60% bio-based material and 40% certified recycled content. 

To summarise, the collection is an accumulation of standout styles befitting of all aesthetics. But don’t just take my word for it. Keep scrolling to explore Vivienne Westwood’s Sun Collection.

I was immediately drawn to the retro structure of the Atlanta glasses. Offered up in light tortoiseshell, dark brown and sleek black, these are sure to be a statement with the signature orb subtly set in the centre of the frames.

If you’re more of a classicist, the Caria is a solid option. The curved edges add a softness for those looking for an understated pair of sunglasses. Plus, these feature the new logo plaque that’s inspired by Georgian jewellery lockets.

The Yara lenses are shaped like hearts around the eye, creating almost a visor-shaped frame. The lightweight frame is perfectly balanced with the slim arms, which adds to this pair’s delicate impression. I predict these will be everywhere as we enter festival season.

As if plucked from the finest vintage store, the Joanne embodies retro eyewear in all its glory. From the bold, circular-shaped frames to the tortoiseshell finish, this impactful pair is the kind people spend years searching for.

True to the brand, the Rococco embraces classic style with a Westwood edge. The soft, wired edges of the hexagonal lenses are harmonised with the addition of intricate attachments and temple details.

The Zephyr Sunglasses are understated with a twist. The gradient lens adds a directional touch to the classic silhouette, and the thick frames are particularly striking. They’re also made from 100% bio-based acetate!

The Georgian influence is again evident in the delicate spheres placed symmetrically on the temples as a defining feature of the Ada. I can see these as the pretty finishing touch to a sunny wedding-guest or poolside look.

When we think of vintage sunglasses, cat-eye styles definitely come to mind. The exaggerated edges play into the cat-eye silhouette. These come in three colourways, so there’s a version for everyone.

At first glance, this pair embodies all the vintage styling that I’ve been looking for. The thick frame and oversized shape are instantly impactful, but look a little closer and you’ll find intricate detailing on the frames with etching details leading all the way down the arms.

Simple, sleek and seriously cool, this rounded pair takes classic vintage head on. The refined frames are combined with the architectural nose bridge to create an endlessly chic pair you’ll wear forever more.

Up next, our Summer Issue featuring India Amarteifio has arrived.

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