THE PARTY EDIT:

7 SUNGLASSES TO HIDE BEHIND

Tom Ford, Prada, Gucci: these sunglasses were made to hide a multitude of sins.

WORDS: MARNI ROSE MCFALL

What do Biggie Smalls, Tom Cruise and The Big Lebowski have in common? Well, they all wore great sunglasses. And this Christmas, we’re taking a leaf out of their book, with a little help from the fashion elves (think Prada, Tom Ford, Gucci, et al). Whether you’re getting ready for the party or packing for a bit of winter sun, a pair (or pairs, we don’t judge) of party-ready sunglasses is a wardrobe non-negotiable. In our dazed, post-party eyes anyway. And if sunglasses indoors/in winter/at night feels a little OTT for your taste, allow us to let you in on a little secret: a pair of party shades are an easy way to a) instantly elevate your outfit and b) hide eyes that have partied a little too hard. And these are the pairs of sunglasses you should be shopping this season. Enjoy.

1. THE AVIATOR SUNGLASSES

Old-school sunnies? It’s a yes. Imagine a cross between Top Gun’s Maverick and Mad Men’s Don Draper. These are the shades they would be wearing. Tom Ford’s big-and-bold pilot sunglasses ft. green-tinted lenses, slick gold rims and rich, ‘70s style brown colouring. Honestly, we feel the need.

2. THE LOGOMANIA SUNGLASSES

If you’re on the lookout for the biggest party shades around, then this pair from Gucci are sure to pique your interest. The lenses are hot pink and covered in the brand’s signature GG monogram, the frame comes in hard-hitting gold metal and the party-ready appeal is endless. Not enough? Pair with even more Gucci monogram. We told you logomania was still a thing.

3. THE PINK PARTY SUNGLASSES

Come on Barbie, let’s go party. Adding a bit of Barbiecore to their style credentials, Off-White have given their signature Arthur sunglasses a makeover for AW23, decking them out in the year’s hottest trend – bold, bright pink. They’re chunky, they’re eye-catching and they were made to make a statement.

4. THE MATRIX SUNGLASSES

From all-night parties to staying incognito while you do your Christmas shopping, Saint Laurent have you covered with their ‘90s-style cat-eye shades. In an all-over black colourway and ft. half-moon shaped lenses, they’re a must-have for off-duty – and on duty for that matter – style. For the full effect, pair with a leather trench coat.

5.THE CHUNKY TORTOISHELL SUNGLASSES

Those Prada specs you’ve been seeing everywhere? Yeah, they’re a must this party season. Ft. angular frames, chunky lenses, classic tortoiseshell detailing and, of course, the signature Prada logo, they’re the go-to pick for elevating any – and every – party outfit this Christmas. Just remember to send Miuccia and Raf a thank you card come Boxing Day.

6. THE ALL-NIGHT SUNGLASSES

Palm Angels know a thing or two about creating party-ready styles. The cult L.A. brand embodies sun-soaked, fun-loving statement styles, so it’s no surprise that their Milford Sunglasses are a firm favourite this party season. With OTT gold logos that are reminiscent of a The Hills era Brody Jenner and simple rectangle frames, they’ll take any party outfit from zero to hero in one easy move.

7. THE SLICK SUNGLASSES

Searching for the perfect pair of party shades? It might just be these. For Christmas 23, Cartier have delivered a pair of stone-cold classic shades. Combining a vintage aesthetic with modern style codes, they deliver a people-pleasing party style that holds the same popularity as Come On Eileen (you know you like it really).