Eyewear isn’t just about vision anymore - it’s a statement of style, personality, and innovation. In 2026, the latest frames combine sustainability, bold design, advanced lens technology, and versatility for active lifestyles. From eco-conscious materials to futuristic shapes, here’s your guide to the hottest eyewear trends in 2026.

Eco-Friendly Frames 

Sustainability continues to shape the eyewear industry, with more brands prioritising eco-conscious materials and ethical production. Customers are also looking for brands that reflect their values and so sustainability is increasingly becoming a major decision driver. 

• Recycled and renewable materials – Frames made from recycled plastics, ocean-bound plastics, or biodegradable alternatives like wood, bamboo, and plant-based acetate are gaining traction as they help to reduce environmental impact. Brands such as Botaniq are leading the way with stylish, nature-inspired designs crafted from wood, cork, bamboo, and 60% recycled stainless steel

• Reducing carbon footprints – Brands like Mulberry are embracing low-energy manufacturing, eco-friendly packaging, and repair services to extend the life of eyewear

If you’re thinking about how to increase the longevity of your frames, our Glasses Cover offers unlimited repairs and replacements for accidental damage for a year. For advice on keeping your glasses in great condition, find out how to care for your eyewear here. 

Smart eyewear 

Smart glasses are emerging as both functional and stylish accessories in 2026. Tech-forward lenses, discreet displays, and lightweight integrations are increasingly part of everyday eyewear.  

The Ray-Ban Meta collection pairs classic design with advanced features, offering hands-free AI interaction, calls, media capture, and music streaming. Nuance Audio Glasses deliver open-ear sound for clear, natural listening without earbuds.  

Both eyewear collections can be customised with prescription lenses. Find out more about smart eyewear here. 

Bold colours and statement shapes 

2026 is all about eyewear as a bold fashion accessory: 

• Vibrant and neon hues – Eye-catching shades like neon green, electric blue, and hot pink are paired with oversized geometric frames or modern twists on classics like aviators and cat-eyes. Frames from Miu Miu are a great example of this playful, futuristic aesthetic 

• Metallics and texture mixing – Matte gold, chrome, and mixed-material frames create a luxurious and modern look

• Retro inspiration – ‘70s and ‘80s style frames, including oversized aviators, round spectacles, and chunky designs, remain a popular choice for statement-making eyewear

Customisable lenses 

Lens technology in 2026 allows for a tailored approach to vision and style: 

• Photochromic lenses – Light reactive lenses like Transitions® offer colors such as sapphire, emerald, amethyst, amber, graphite green, brown, grey, and ruby. Zeiss PhotoFusion X lenses provide subtle shades like neutral grey and warm brown. Pair these with clear or metallic frames for a stylish effect. 

• Sport and glare reduction lenses – Transitions® XTRActive® Style Mirrors reduce glare during sports, driving, and outdoor activities, working seamlessly with both classic metal frames and trendy chunky plastic styles. They suit a variety of shapes such as round, square and geometric designs. 

Vintage-inspired eyewear 

Classic designs continue to inspire modern eyewear, blending nostalgia with innovation. The most popular frame choices this year are: 

• Cat-eye 

• Round and oval 

• Aviator 

• Tortoise shell  

Tom Ford sunglasses and similar brands highlight how timeless shapes can feel fresh with modern materials and lens technology. 

Minimalist designs 

Minimalism remains a key trend in 2026, focusing on sleek, versatile frames: 

• Thin wire frames: Lightweight metal wire frames with minimalistic designs, paired with clear lenses offer a sophisticated look, like these Reykjavik Maria frames

• Transparent or lightly tinted frames – Subtle designs that pair effortlessly with any outfit

• Invisible designs: Transparent frames or lightly tinted frames blend seamlessly with any outfit 

• Rimless glasses or semi-rimless: These are frames without rims or frames with a rim on the top or bottom only, offering a minimalist look 

• Round wire frames: Simple and classic, with a thin metal frame for a subtle, minimalist style

• Rectangular or geometric shapes: Clean and contemporary, perfect for a modern wardrobe

Nordic-inspired eyewear continues to influence the minimalist scene with Scandinavian design principles of simplicity, functionality, and elegance. Read more about Nordic-inspired eyewear.