Designed to put a sparkle in your eye, while subtly throwing shade at the competition, the best sunglasses brands are sartorial visionaries. They have the uncanny ability to make any ensemble cool—yes, even your tired travel sweats—and they kindly hide the remnants of last night's revelries.
But a killer pair of shades is more than just offering a new style perspective. Whether it’s a James Bond-inspired pair of wayfarers or Brad Pitt’s classical aviators, quality sunglasses are made from durable, long-lasting materials. They should fit and flatter your face. And of course, they need to protect your eyes from the sun’s harsh UV rays.
With that frame of mind, here are our best luxury sunglasses brands.
From polarized to rose-tinted, they’re all about looking at life through a new lens (literally and metaphorically speaking.)
Why you can trust Banton Frameworks? We’re obsessed with everything eyewear. Founded in 2012, we—Lucy and Jamie—make all Banton frames ourselves. This means that we’re constantly looking at other brands and how we can improve our designs.
That being said, we know what to look for in a quality pair of shades. And while we remain unapologetically biased towards our own brand, we understand that individuals have unique style and feature preferences.
These are the luxury sunglasses brands that we ourselves would recommend to those we love, including our own, of course.
Top 11 most luxurious sunglasses brands
Banton Frameworks
As we’ve said, we’re unapologetically biased towards our own brand, Banton Frameworks. And while we may not be totally objective, our loyal customer base is, with many calling them, “the best [they’ve] ever had”.
What makes Banton sunglasses so great?
All of our frames are handmade in limited edition batches by our founders—Jamie and Lucy—with meticulous attention to detail and quality materials. Designed to perform and protect, all Banton’s sunglasses are polarized and can be fitted with prescription lenses. Plus, our timeless styles are built to last—with a promise of free lifetime repairs.
If you are keen on getting yourself a pair of limited edition sunglasses sign up here to join the waiting list.
Best for: Handmade with a more sustainable perspective.
Most popular styles: Aviators
Polarized: Optional
Prescription options: Yes
Price: ££
Dita
Dita Eyewear, established in 1995, is renowned for its sophisticated, high-quality eyewear that epitomizes luxury and craftsmanship. Distinguished by its commitment to innovative design and meticulous craftsmanship, Dita frames are handcrafted in Japan, using only the finest materials like titanium and 18K gold.
The brand’s philosophy combines timeless elegance with edgy, modern aesthetics, often drawing inspiration from vintage styles. Dita's eyewear is a symbol of status and style, favored amongst stealth wealth celebrities and high profile businessmen.
We love these limited edition Epiluxury square rims, fitted with interchangeable sides, as well as this round pair, featuring 22K gold plated frames. Or check out the entire collection here.
Best for: IYKYK—a secret sartorial handshake of sorts.
Most popular styles: Square and round
Polarized: Options available
Prescription: Yes
Price: ££££
Linda Farrow
Linda Farrow, a pioneering luxury eyewear brand, is renowned for its innovative and avant-garde designs. Established in the 1970s, it revolutionized the eyewear industry, merging high fashion with practical eyewear.
The brand is celebrated for its use of precious materials like gold and platinum, as well as more sustainable options, such as recycled acetate. Linda Farrow’s shades are finished off with hand polished frames. And adopting the latest technologies, the brand’s lenses provide optimum clarity and UV protection.
We particularly love these Edano aviators, featuring a light pink lens and rose gold frame. And if you prefer a chunkier frame, these Debbie cat eyes are a fashion failsafe. Or check out the entire Linda Farrow Sunglasses collection.
Best for: UV protection—but make it fashion.
Most popular styles: Aviator and cat eye
Polarized: Options available
Prescription: Yes
Price: £££
Matsuda
Founded by Mitsuhiro Matsuda in Japan, the affluent label’s meticulous approach to flawless designs is a nod to its home country.
Inspired by cultural influences, each pair of glasses is a work of art, combining traditional Japanese craftsmanship with modern aesthetics. Known for intricate detailing, such as hand-engraved finishes and unique materials, Matsuda stands out for its blend of architectural precision and timeless elegance, making it a symbol of sophistication in the eyewear industry.
Featuring 22K gold vermeil rims, these Matsuda Precious round frames reflect the understated opulence of the brand. While these Matsuda Heritage frames take on a slightly vintage aesthetic, complete with detachable side shields. Or if you're looking for something a bit different why not check out Matsuda's entire collection.
Best for: Japanese-inspired perfection.
Most popular styles: Round
Polarized: Options available
Prescription: Yes
Price: ££££
Cazal
Leaving a significant impact on the hip-hop and R&B scenes, Cazal is renowned for its unconventional shapes, avant garde designs and innovative materials.
Constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, the brand’s oversized, often-embellished accessories are undeniably eye-catching (quite literally.) But at the same time, they’re created with comfort and wearability in mind, featuring high UV protection and glare-reducing gradients.
These square Cazal sunglasses—worn by Brad Pitt—come in a gold frame, fitted with gray gradient lenses. While these Legends sunglasses take it up a notch with real buffalo horn frames, 24K gold plated rims and gold mirror lenses. Or check out their extensive range of sunglasses here.
Best for: Making an eye-conic entrance.
Most popular styles: Square
Polarized: Options available
Prescription: Yes
Price: £££
Anna-Karin Karlsson
Bored of traditional designs? Anna-Karin Karlsson is anything but. From stone studded rims to hot pink oversized frames, the affluent label lives by the maxim more is always more.
Blending opulence with whimsy and playfulness, each design is an expression of individuality and sartorial prowess. They’re the kind of sunglasses that demand attention and attract compliments, while simultaneously providing clarity and reducing glare.
Made from 22K white gold with stone-embellished frames, these limited edition Shady Luv shield sunnies are a personification of the brand itself. While these Billion $ Boo round shades reflect the brand’s mantra with green stone accents and detailed side shades. If these aren't for you have a look and the entire sunglasses collection.
Best for: A maximalist approach to luxury eyewear.
Most popular styles: Shields and round
Polarized: Options available
Prescription: Yes
Price: ££££
Randolph
Randolph may not have invented aviators, but since its inception in 1973, the luxury brand has become somewhat of an authority on the pilot-inspired style.
Fusing fashion with functionality, the luxury sunglasses brand offers first class eye protection. Randolph’s polarized AGX lenses accentuate calming green and yellow wavelengths, reducing eye strain and glare.
Our favorite designs from the brand are the classic polarized aviator and the slightly more decadent Randolph Elinor in 22K rose gold. Or check out the whole collection to find the perfect aviator for you.
Best for: Flying high above the rest.
Most popular styles: Aviator
Polarized: Options available
Prescription options: Yes
Price: ££
Oliver Peoples
Handcrafted with meticulous attention to detail, Oliver Peoples stands out as one of the top luxury eyewear brands. Established in 1986, the LA-born brand has established itself in high end circles, styling famous faces like Elton John, Jay Z, Jennifer Aniston and Brad Pitt.
Drawing inspiration from vintage designs of the 1940s to 1970s, Oliver Peoples blends retro charm with modern sophistication, making them instantly recognizable to all in the know. We also love that many Oliver Peoples sunglasses—such as the Marson and Mister Brunello—are fitted with photochromatic lenses, making them ultra comfortable in all conditions. Or have a look at their entire collection here.
Best for: Voguish versatility.
Most popular styles: Wayfarer and square
Polarized: Options available
Prescription: Yes
Price: ££
Cutler and Gross
Cutler and Gross is a distinguished British eyewear brand, celebrated for its bespoke, handcrafted glasses and sunglasses. Established in 1969 by Graham Cutler and Tony Gross, the brand is known for its unique approach to eyewear design, blending traditional artisanal techniques with bold, contemporary aesthetics.
However just because they’re more discreet than other designer labels doesn’t mean they’re not being seen. Colin Firth was spotted wearing these Kingsman Sun collabs, while Gal Gadot loves her Cutler and Gross wayfarers. If these aren't for you have a look at the entire collection there's sure to be something for you.
Best for: A cut above the rest eyewear.
Most popular styles: Wayfarer
Polarized: Options available
Prescription: Yes
Price: ££
Persol
From rap royalty to real-life royalty, Persol sunglasses attract stealth wealth figures in high society. Established in 1917, the brand’s designs are understated and effortlessly cool, with a keen eye for durability and performance.
While not all Persol sunglasses are polarized, the brand does have polarized options. Recognized by the Silver Arrow symbol, the brand’s signature is the Meflecto system (the world’s first flexible stem system), a testament to Persol’s constant pursuit of innovation and unparalleled comfort.
Which pair would we choose?
As some of our best luxury sunglasses for men, it’s a tough choice between Jay Z’s wayfarers and Prince Harry’s round frames. Or why not have a look at all the styles available in Persol's sunglasses collection.
Best for: Rappers, royalty and everyone in between.
Most popular styles: Wayfarer
Polarized: Options available
Prescription: Yes
Price: £
Oakley
While Oakley may have once been confined to the heads of cyclists and skiers, the high performance brand is now considered a stylish streetwear staple. And while it is still hailed as one of the best brands amongst sports stars, more and more fashion aficionados seem to be getting in on the action.
Featuring High Definition Optics technology, Oakley is dedicated to crystal clear vision in all conditions. The brand’s sunglasses are also incredibly durable, lightweight and comfortable to wear for extended periods.
The Oakley Sutro shields are the brand's hallmark—and also one of the best designs for big heads. While the Oakley Two Face square frames were made famous by Jake Gyllenhall in Guy Ritchie’s The Covenant. Check out the entire collection here.
Best for: Styling sporting heroes and streetwear influencers alike.
Most popular styles: Shields
Polarized: Yes
Prescription: Yes
Price: £
Sunglasses Glossary
Polarized
Polarized lenses come with a unique filter that significantly cuts down the glare from sunlight and other reflective surfaces. This feature enhances clarity and comfort in brightly lit environments. Additionally, these sunglasses enhance color contrast, making hues appear more vivid. On the flip side, they can interfere with viewing LED screens, such as your smartphone, so it's advisable to opt for a different pair when browsing social media platforms like Instagram.
UV Protection
100% UV protection in sunglasses means they completely block out harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun. This includes both UVA and UVB rays, which can cause eye damage over time. Wearing sunglasses with this level of protection helps prevent conditions like cataracts and macular degeneration.
Prescription
Prescription sunglasses offer the dual benefits of style and vision correction, so you don’t have to choose between looking cool and being able to see. Ensuring that you don’t have to compromise on either, all of Banton’s polarized sunglasses can be fitted with prescription lenses.
Photochromatic
Photochromatic lenses in sunglasses are akin to chameleons, adeptly adjusting to the environment. These lenses are engineered to shield our eyes from damaging rays, reacting dynamically to the intensity of UV light they encounter. In bright sunlight, they darken to provide optimal protection, and in conditions with less UV exposure, they lighten while still maintaining clear and comfortable vision.
Frequently asked questions about the best sunglasses brands
Which luxury brand makes the best sunglasses?
Determining the "best" luxury sunglasses brand is subjective and varies based on personal preference and style. Brands like Ray-Ban, Prada, and Gucci are renowned for their high-quality, stylish designs. Ray-Ban is iconic for its classic styles, Prada for its innovative designs, and Gucci for its bold fashion statements, each offering a unique blend of luxury, comfort, and UV protection.
What is the most luxurious sunglasses brand?
Affluent labels like Cartier and Bulgari are often considered the most luxurious sunglasses brands. Adorned with opulent gems and intricate detailing, they’re also some of the most expensive brands, but that doesn’t necessarily make them the best. Luxury brands like Ray-Ban, Persol and Oakley are often more functional and protective.
Are expensive sunglasses really better?
Expensive sunglasses often provide better quality in terms of materials, durability, lens technology, and UV protection compared to cheaper alternatives. They typically offer superior optical clarity, comfort, and longevity. However, a higher price doesn't always guarantee better eye protection. It's crucial to look for key features like 100% UV protection, polarized lenses and fit, rather than solely considering the price or brand prestige.
How can you tell if sunglasses are high quality?
To determine if sunglasses are high quality, check for 100% UV protection, polarized lenses, durable frame materials (like acetate or metal), and lens clarity without distortions. High-quality hinges and a comfortable fit are also indicators. Brand reputation and price can be suggestive, but they're not definitive measures of quality.
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