24 Vintage Sunglasses Styling Ideas You’ll Want To Steal Immediately
You know that feeling when you throw on a killer pair of sunglasses and suddenly you’re the main character? Vintage shades take that energy to a whole new level.
Trust me — I once slipped on a pair of old-school tortoise frames and immediately felt like I should be leaning against a classic convertible, pretending I hated attention.
If you want to bring that same stylish magic into your life, you’re in the right place. I’m sharing 24 vintage sunglasses styling ideas that actually feel wearable.
We’re talking classic, retro, iconic, and even borderline eccentric — because fashion should feel fun, right?
Grab your favorite pair (or that dusty thrift-store find), and let’s get styling.
1. Classic Aviators With A Crisp Button-Up
I love aviators because they instantly sharpen your look. Pair them with a plain button-up shirt and denim, and people assume you’ve got someplace important to be.
Why this works:
- Effortless cool
- Pairs with casual and semi-formal outfits
- Perfect for all face shapes
Ever try looking serious in aviators? Impossible. You just look cool.
2. Cat-Eye Frames With A Retro Hairstyle
Cat-eye sunglasses channel old Hollywood glam. I once wore them with a simple ponytail and felt like I needed paparazzi.
Best style tips:
- Wear with red lipstick
- Pair with structured outfits
- Keep jewelry minimal for balance
3. Tortoise Shell Frames + Neutrals
Vintage tortoise frames look classic and warm. They pair beautifully with taupe, beige, and caramel tones.
They work for everyday fits, so you don’t have to overthink anything. FYI, they’ll make your outfit look expensive even if you bought it on sale.
4. Round John Lennon Sunglasses + Denim Jacket
Round frames give artsy vibes without any effort. You can toss them on with the most basic outfit and suddenly look like you write poetry at cafes.
Pair with a denim jacket and simple sneakers. Done.
5. Retro Oversized Sunglasses + Minimalist Outfits
Oversized sunglasses feel bold and vintage without trying. They create structure and shield your face when you didn’t sleep enough.
They look best with monochrome outfits.
Quick wins:
- Go with black frames
- Pair with all-white looks
- Keep your accessories clean
6. Square Frames + Edgy Leather Jacket
Square vintage shades feel sleek. When you pair them with a leather jacket, you’ll look powerful and slightly mysterious. Which is always fun 🙂
They frame wider faces nicely and balance sharp outfits.
7. Rimless Vintage Sunglasses + Casual Fits
Rimless styles feel lightweight and elegant. They give a subtle, classy vibe without shouting “look at me.”
I wear them with tees and light-wash denim when I want casual fashion that still feels styled.
8. Colored Lenses + Monochrome Base
Colored lenses feel playful. Keep the rest of your outfit neutral and let the glasses take center stage.
Try:
- Amber lenses with brown fits
- Blue lenses with navy outfits
- Pink lenses with soft earth tones
9. Thick Black Frames + Graphic Tee
Chunky frames pack attitude. Throw them on with a vintage-style graphic tee and jeans. You’ll look effortlessly nostalgic.
Why this works:
- Bold shape
- Casual-but-stylish feel
- Adds personality fast
10. Aviators + Silk Scarf
Aviators with a scarf scream classic road trip vibes. Ever seen old travel photography? It’s basically this combo.
Wrap a silk scarf around your hair or neck for that vintage twist. Simple.
11. Cat-Eyes + A-Line Dress
A-line dresses already feel retro, so cat-eye glasses complete the look. I always imagine myself buying flowers at a market when I wear this — even though I’m really just grabbing groceries.
12. Browline Sunglasses + Tailored Suit
Browline sunglasses look architect-level smart. Pair with a tailored suit and leather loafers for a refined finish.
The combo feels straight out of a retro movie. It looks intentional, polished, and classy.
13. Round Frames + Linen Clothing
Linen outfits feel relaxed, especially in summer. Round frames complement that soft simplicity.
I love wearing this combo at outdoor events. It keeps you comfy and stylish.
14. Butterfly Frames + Maxi Skirt
Butterfly-shaped glasses feel feminine and fun. They look stunning with long flowy skirts.
This pairing gives a romantic vintage feel without trying too hard.
15. Vintage Sport Frames + Athleisure
Sporty retro frames can feel niche, but they look cool with a casual athleisure outfit.
Think track jackets, plain tees, sneakers. It gives early 2000s energy without being costume-y.
16. Wire Frames + Buttoned Knitwear
Wire frames feel intellectual, old-school, and subtle. Wear with buttoned cardigans or knit tops.
This pairing works when you want a relaxed, scholarly feel — even if you never finished that book.
17. Statement Frames + Black Outfit
You can let your sunglasses be the main character. Pick something bold — thick colored frames, dramatic shape, etc. Then pair with an all-black outfit.
The frames bring all the personality. The look stays clean and chic.
18. Gradient Lenses + Flowy Blouse
Gradient lenses give retro glam instantly. When you wear them with a billowy blouse, you’ll feel like a 70s icon.
Pro tip: Pick softer tones for a dreamy, vintage finish.
19. Oversized Round Frames + Wide-Leg Pants
Oversized round sunglasses complement wide-leg pants beautifully. The silhouette feels intentional.
This combo looks modern and retro at the same time. Ever think wide-leg pants look amazing with bold glasses? They do.
20. Photochromic Vintage Frames For Everyday Use
Photochromic lenses shift shade levels outdoors. These feel practical, but the right frames keep them vintage.
I love wearing these when I run errands. They transition with your day, which makes styling easier.
21. Yellow Tint Glasses + Denim On Denim
Yellow-tinted lenses give your fit a quirky spark. Pair with denim-on-denim for a nod to 70s styling.
It’s bold, but incredibly cool when styled right. IMO, it’s a choice worth trying.
22. Thin Oval Frames + Minimal Make-up
Thin oval frames give a sleek, vintage feel. Wear them with barely-there makeup for a clean aesthetic.
They look effortless but intentional. Perfect for everyday wear.
23. Polarized Retro Sunglasses + Outdoors Fits
If you travel or hit the outdoors often, polarized retro lenses make sense. You get style and function.
Pair them with canvas jackets and boots when hiking or exploring.
24. Clear Frame Sunglasses + Pastel Outfits
Clear frames feel modern yet vintage-inspired. They add personality without overpowering your look.
They shine with pastel clothing because everything feels soft and cohesive. Think sage, blush, baby blue. 🙂
Helpful Tips For Styling Vintage Sunglasses
Consider Face Shape
Some styles flatter certain shapes better. Quick guide:
- Round faces: square or cat-eye frames
- Heart-shaped faces: aviators or browline
- Square faces: round or oval frames
- Oval faces: almost everything
That said, wear what makes you feel cool.
Mix Old + New
Balance vintage sunglasses with contemporary pieces. That mix creates the best looks.
Try:
- Old frames + new sneakers
- Retro lenses + modern tailoring
Keep It Balanced
If your frames are loud, keep your outfit calm. If your outfit is bold, go with simpler frames. Easy.
Final Thoughts
Vintage sunglasses can completely change your outfit. They tell a story, hint at personality, and make you look effortlessly stylish.
My personal favorite? Cat-eye frames with a simple black tee. They feel powerful and fun without demanding attention. But you might prefer aviators or oversized frames — that’s the beauty of vintage styling. You get endless freedom.

Hi, I’m Ashley Miller, a wife, a busy mom, and someone who loves to share all the things that make life a little more fun and beautiful.
From easy DIY projects, delicious recipes, and chic hairstyles to nail ideas and home decor tips, I share everything I’ve learned and love.
My goal is to inspire other women to explore their creativity and make their homes even more special.