5 Sunglasses You Need This Summer

Summer's here, which means two things: squinting becomes your default expression, and your eyes take a battering from UV rays. A good pair of sunglasses sorts both problems whilst making you look considerably better than you would with watery, screwed-up eyes.

We've pulled together five pairs that cover different styles and budgets, from classic shapes that'll outlast any trend to more contemporary frames that feel right for 2025.

1. Ray-Ban Aviator Large Metal Gold / Green - £155

The aviator never goes away, and there's a reason for that. The teardrop lens shape suits most face shapes, the metal construction feels quality without being precious, and the gold frame with green lenses is about as summer as it gets.

This is the larger version of Ray-Ban's aviator, so if you've got a bigger build or just prefer more coverage, it's the one to go for. Green lenses are having a moment again this season, and they're actually brilliant for reducing glare without making everything look dim.

2. Ray-Ban New Wayfarer Classic Tortoise/Green - £144

Wayfarers have been around since 1952 and they're still here because the shape just works. This tortoiseshell version with green lenses hits two trends at once (tortoiseshell is everywhere right now) but doesn't feel try-hard because the frame itself is so established.

The acetate construction makes them lighter than you'd expect, and the slightly smaller profile of the New Wayfarer compared to the original means they suit more face shapes. If you want one pair that'll work with everything from a t-shirt to a linen blazer, this is it.

3. Oakley Frogskins Crystal Clear - £127

Transparent frames looked gimmicky when they first appeared, but they've stuck around because they're genuinely versatile. The Frogskins shape is Oakley's retro offering (it was their bestseller in the 80s), so you get that squared-off look without the weight or bulk of acetate.

The clear frame means they don't compete with what you're wearing, which sounds boring but is actually useful when you're trying to pack light for a few days away. They're also less likely to show scratches or wear than darker frames.

4. Oakley Holbrook Matte Black - £135

If the Frogskins feel too retro for you, the Holbrook is Oakley's modern classic. It's their bestselling lifestyle frame, which tells you it's doing something right. The matte black finish is properly versatile (works with everything) and the rectangular shape suits most faces.

Oakley's lens tech is where they justify the price. You get proper clarity and protection without the colour distortion you sometimes get with cheaper lenses. The frame's also built to take a beating, so if you're rough with sunglasses, these'll last.

5. MessyWeekend Depp Champagne Green - £60

Not everyone wants to spend £150 on sunglasses, especially if there's a chance you'll sit on them or leave them in a taxi. MessyWeekend makes decent frames at prices that don't hurt if things go wrong.

The Depp has that rounded, slightly retro shape that's popular right now, and the champagne frame with green lenses ties into the same colour trend as the Ray-Bans without looking like you're trying to copy them. At £60 (down from £75), they're the sort of purchase you can make without needing to justify it.

Where to Buy

All five pairs are available at Ragazzi. We stock a full range of Ray-Ban sunglasses, Oakley sunglasses, and MessyWeekend sunglasses, with free UK delivery on orders over £150.