A few years ago, we released our first roundup of the top eyewear brands. It has since become one of our most-read and highly anticipated yearly posts!
Thousands of readers like you look forward to this annual article for eyewear inspiration, updates, and tips. We appreciate your enthusiasm!
More importantly, we hope this edition helps you find glasses that suit your style, flatter your face, and exceed your expectations. Are you ready to take a peek?
How Do We Choose?
If you don’t already know, EZContacts is an eyewear superstore! We offer hundreds of famous and fashionable brands. Our pages feature a wide selection of eyeglasses and sunglasses for men, women, and children.
The complete collection is extensive, making it tough to choose the eyewear that will make the cut. We analyze the inventory, check sales figures, read customer feedback, and examine the latest trends.
Of course, you’re totally worth it! So, without further ado, we’re proud to present 25 brands making a major impact on the eyewear world this year.
#25 – Michael Kors
Michael Kors created his namesake label in 1981 in New York City. A native New Yorker, he combined wearable city fashion and pieces inspired by jet setters.
His eyewear collection includes classic shapes and styles, such as iconic aviator, tortoiseshell, and cat-eye sunglasses. They’re fashion-forward but still perfect for a busy lifestyle.
- Michael Kors creates eyeglasses and sunglasses for men and women.
- His understated designs are easy to introduce into your wardrobe.
- Popular styles include MK4058 CARACAS eyeglasses and MK5004 CHELSEA sunglasses.
Shop the Michael Kors Eyewear Collection
#24 – Tiffany (NEW!)
Tiffany symbolizes tradition—and it’s one of the longest-standing eyewear brands on this list. The company was founded in 1837 as a shop for “fancy goods.”
Now famous for its landmark fine jewelry store on Fifth Avenue, Tiffany and Co. has built a reputation on diamond engagement rings in iconic little blue boxes.
The products exemplify elegance and indulgence. The luxury women’s eyewear collection, launched in 2008, offers several frames in the familiar blue hue.
- The movie Breakfast at Tiffany’s cemented the name in pop culture history.
- Sophisticated frames and subtle colors define the Tiffany eyewear style.
- Classic shapes like cat-eye sunglasses and rectangle eyeglasses are perfect for daily wear.
- Popular options include the Tiffany TF2175 and the pink Tiffany TF4216.
Shop the Tiffany Eyewear Collection
#23 – Oliver Peoples
Oliver Peoples is a cool, contemporary name in eyewear that’s become a cult classic and celebrity favorite. The brand is a newcomer to our list but has been a staple on the eyewear scene for decades.
The company started in California, with the first store opening in 1987. The owners were opticians who discovered that making eyewear was their passion.
The brand’s focus on timeless styles for men and women has made it stand out. Where other sunglasses can be a little loud, Oliver Peoples’ are associated with laid-back Cali energy and vintage-inspired vibes.
- This eyewear brand is a top choice for those who prefer timeless accessories that don’t always follow fashion trends.
- The collections are less about logos and more about the overall design.
- Popular choices include the Oliver Peoples OV1185 CALIDOR and the Oliver Peoples OV5186 GREGORY PECK.
Shop the Oliver Peoples Eyewear Collection
#22 – Tory Burch
Tory Burch is known as an all-American Lifestyle brand. A relatively new designer, Burch launched her label in 2004 with massive success.
The first eyewear collection to bear the name was created in 2008. It easily fits into the luxury fashion house’s mix, which also includes clothing, handbags, and shoes.
- The Tory Burch brand is all about classic American heritage.
- It’s full of wearable staple pieces.
- The name has become a global go-to in under two decades.
- Some popular styles include the Tory Burch TY7187U and Tory Burch TY2084.
Shop the Tory Burch Eyewear Collection
#21 – Saint Laurent
One of the biggest names to come out of the 20th century was Saint Laurent (formerly Yves Saint Laurent). The brand was founded in 1961 in Paris and offers everything from accessories to couture. It combines high fashion with a Parisian rock and roll edge.
Saint Laurent has built a reputation for crafting pieces that push fashion boundaries. This extends to the eyewear collection, launched in the ’70s and seen on fashion lovers worldwide.
- Saint Laurent mixes French simplicity with edgy designs.
- The well-established eyewear line caters to both men and women.
- Styles are classic, with clean lines and easy-to-wear shapes.
- Popular sunglasses include the Saint Laurent SL 318 for men and the Saint Laurent SL 214 KATE for women.
Shop the Saint Laurent Eyewear Collection
#20 – Balenciaga (NEW!)
Founded in Spain by Cristobal Balenciaga in 1917, Balenciaga has survived two world wars and several fashion eras. Avant-garde and forward-thinking styles have only heightened its popularity and acclaim.
Still considered a major player in the luxury market, the brand is provocative and innovative. That builds hype around its collections each season!
This extends to the eyewear collection, which is new in comparison to the brand itself. The first glasses were released in 2019, nearly 100 years after the brand was born.
- Today, Balenciaga is known for creative and trend-setting collections.
- Celebrity fans of this top eyewear brand include Kim Kardashian and Nicole Kidman.
- Balenciaga creates men’s and women’s eyewear, with popular styles being the Balenciaga BB0104O and Balenciaga BB0096S.
Shop the Balenciaga Eyewear Collection
#19 – Carrera
Carrera was founded in Austria in 1956 by Wilhelm Anger, a dedicated fan of extreme sports. The name was inspired by the Carrera Panamericana, a world-famous 2000-mile Mexican racing event.
He initially focused on eyewear for skiing and racing, making items like goggles and helmets. Today, his company crafts eyeglasses and blue-light glasses for men and women.
- This top eyewear brand was originally known as Wilhelm Anger Werker.
- The company was the first to display their logo front-and-center on the frames.
- Several styles, including the Safari, merge the shape of racing goggles and the functionality of sunglasses.
- Carrera has collaborated with Porsche, mastering the art of attractive styles that perform.
Popular options include the Carrera Glory Ii and Carrera 1069/S.
Shop the Carrera Eyewear Collection
#18 – Fendi
Fendi is one of the biggest Italian brands out there! Founded in 1925 in Rome, its appeal has grown over the last century.
Historically, this luxury brand’s claim to fame has been leather and fur products. However, in the 1980s, its offerings expanded to homeware, perfume, and eyewear.
- Fendi offers chic eyeglasses and sunglasses for men and women.
- The eyewear collection echoes the brand’s unapologetic and playful attitude.
- Logos, prints, and a mixture of metallics distinguish the brand.
- Some popular styles include the Fendi FE50065I and the Fendi First Crystal FE4075US.
Shop the Fendi Eyewear Collection
#17 – COACH
COACH, one of the original American heritage brands, was founded in 1941. The family-run business had its first store on the renowned Madison Avenue in Manhattan.
The company specializes in wearable leather goods. In recent years, COACH has been linked to timeless pieces with a fun spirit!
- COACH creates wearable eyeglasses and sunglasses for men and women.
- The styles are classic—perfect for practical and chic day-to-day use.
- Stunning statement pieces are always thrown in the mix!
- Popular styles include the COACH HC6089 and the COACH HC6040 Brooklyn.
Shop the COACH Eyewear Collection
#16 – Smith Optics (NEW!)
Smith Optics was created by Dr. Bob Smith, an orthodontist, innovator, and self-proclaimed ski bum. He started designing eyewear for the slopes.
The brand pioneered the creation of anti-fogging ski eyewear and polarized lens technology. Made with active outdoor enthusiasts in mind, SMITH’s eyewear is durable and stylish.
- Initially, Dr. Smith sold homemade goggles from his van during ski trips in America’s Mountain West.
- In 1979, he produced the first goggles with a built-in micro-fan.
- Today, his company creates simple, sporty men’s and women’s eyeglasses.
- Popular styles include the SMITH Cavalier and the SMITH Crossfade.
Shop the SMITH Eyewear Collection
#15 – Persol
Founded in 1917, Persol epitomizes high-quality Italian craftsmanship. Like a few other top brands on this list, the company initially focused on specialized sports eyewear.
The earliest glasses were worn by everyone from Air Force pilots to professional racecar drivers. Today, Persol frames are often spotted on celebrities.
Lewis Hamilton and Beyonce have been among the brand’s supporters. Even King Charles has been seen out and about in Persol shades!
- Persol’s signature style is retro frames in tortoiseshell patterns or understated colors.
- The brand’s wide range of eyeglasses and sunglasses suits every face shape.
- Most Persol sunglasses are unisex, and there are options for all ages.
- Some popular styles include the Persol PO3048S and Persol PO3235S.
Shop the Persol Eyewear Collection
#14 – Loewe (NEW!)
In 1846, in Madrid, Spain, a group of expert craftsmen created a collective to sell high-quality leather goods. Enrique Loewe Roessberg, a German designer, took over the business in 1872.
From that point forward, it became known simply as “Loewe.” The brand was associated with Spanish royalty. Queen Victoria Eugenie was a regular customer!
Common people couldn’t purchase Loewe’s products until many years later. The first ready-to-wear clothing line was launched in 1965.
With Jonathan Anderson’s arrival as creative director in 2013, the company completely changed direction. Contemporary Loewe looks blend art and fashion, resulting in innovative pieces that push boundaries.
- Rihanna’s flight suit-inspired red outfit during the Super Bowl LVII halftime show was designed by Anderson.
- Loewe eyewear is a mixture of funky statement pieces and dramatic classic shades.
- The signature style features chunky frames and an in-your-face gold logo.
- Popular models include the Loewe Signature LW40064U and Loewe Chunky Anagram LW50058I.
Shop the Loewe Eyewear Collection
#13 – Dior
Formed in 1946, Dior is one of the brands that made fashion what it is today. The turning point that cemented the name’s place in the hall of fame was the creation of a famous “New Look.”
Following frugality and rationing during World War II, Christian Dior daringly decided to make big fairytale dresses. After the simplicity of the war era, the amount of fabric used was downright shocking!
The house of Dior has stood the test of time and is still known for its timeless sophistication.
- Christian Dior captured widespread attention in 1949 when he designed Princess Margaret’s 21st birthday dress.
- Today’s eyewear collection also turns heads!
- Popular styles include the DiorSideral 2 and the Dior CD40130I.
Shop the Dior Eyewear Collection
#12 – Burberry
Burberry has been a beacon of quality since 1856. A quintessentially British brand, the company wanted to help people protect themselves from cold, damp weather without needing to give up their sense of style.
The trench coat became one of the brand’s most recognizable pieces. Now, Burberry’s signature plaid is featured in timeless clothing and accessories, from sunglasses to scarves.
- Burberry launched its first eyewear collection in 2006.
- It infuses its classic style into glasses while leaning into trends, as seen in these mask-style sunglasses.
- Popular eyeglasses include the Burberry BE2073 and Burberry BE2347 Evelyn.
Shop the Burberry Eyewear Collection
#11 – Tom Ford
Born in Texas, designer Tom Ford made a name for himself in the fashion industry by boosting Gucci’s sales from $230 million to over $3 billion in under a decade. He is credited with reviving the brand.
Following that successful run, he decided to branch out on his own. In 2005, Ford introduced his highly anticipated independent brand, which included amazing eyewear.
- Tom Ford also served as creative director for Yves Saint Laurent.
- His namesake brand was sold to The Estée Lauder Companies Inc. in 2023.
- The eyewear that bears his name combines classic shapes with high fashion.
- Popular styles include the Tom Ford FT5537-B and the Tom Ford FT1044.
Shop the Tom Ford Eyewear Collection
#10 – Versace
Versace boasts a big WOW factor! Gianni Versace founded the brand in 1978, blazing trails with sultry dresses and eye-catching accessories.
He is also credited as the first major designer to make his “supermodels,” including Linda Evangelista, Christy Turlington, and Naomi Campbell, the real stars of his highly anticipated runway shows.
The brand’s most memorable pieces include Elizabeth Hurley’s gold safety pin dress and Donatella Versace’s history-making 42nd Annual Grammy Awards dress for Jennifer Lopez.
- J-Lo’s plunging green Versace gown broke search records and led to the creation of Google Images.
- The brand infuses its love of bold and bling into its eyewear collection.
- The Versace collection includes eyeglasses and sunglasses for men, women, and children.
- Popular styles include Versace VE1175B eyeglasses and Versace VE4296 sunglasses.
Shop the Versace Eyewear Collection
#9 – Pit Viper (NEW!)
Pit Viper doesn’t have the extensive history of some of the other top eyewear brands on our list, but that hasn’t stopped them from making waves! They have proven to be one to watch.
Founded in the U.S. in 2012, Pit Viper set out to make sunglasses for sports and extreme conditions. But they don’t just perform—they look funky!
Tested by being run over, sat on, and thrown around, these shades are built to withstand a rugged lifestyle.
- Pit Vipers are marketed to sports enthusiasts or anyone who wants to look like one.
- In addition to being tough as nails, these shades feature cool designs and even cooler names.
- The Miami Nights Double-Wides and The Ignition Exciters are among the most popular Pit Viper styles.
Shop the Pit Viper Eyewear Collection
#8 – Miu Miu
Miu Miu is the brainchild of Miuccia Prada. Founded in 1993 by the businesswoman and head designer at Prada, the brand has been dubbed “Prada’s little sister.”
On the buzzworthy Miu Miu runway, you’ll find sporty clothing, bags, shoes, and our favorite—eyewear! Provocative designs play on femininity and modern aesthetics to create a fascinating fusion of inspiration.
With buzz-worthy runway shows, Miu Miu has remained on the cutting edge of the fashion industry.
- Miu Miu exemplifies the idea of the 21st-century woman with freedom, fun, and fashion at the forefront.
- The brand showcases flirty colors, chunky lenses, and Y2K-inspired shades and eyeglasses.
- Staple styles include cat-eye sunglasses and Barbie pink lenses.
- Popular styles include the Miu Miu MU 03XV and the Miu Miu MU 54YS.
Shop the Miu Miu Eyewear Collection
#7 – CELINE (NEW!)
CELINE, a French fashion house, was created in 1945 by Céline Vipiana and her husband. Initially a children’s footwear designer, she expanded into womenswear and accessories.
The brand is associated with minimalistic elegance and quality construction, but wearability is a must. Picture women’s luxury pieces that are also comfortable—adding beauty to everyday life.
- CELINE eyewear exudes retro luxe.
- Signatures include refined frames and sleek shapes like rectangle and cat-eye.
- The company focuses on fit and feel—permanence, not passing trends.
Popular styles include the CELINE TRIOMPHE CL40194U and the CELINE METAL TRIOMPHE CL40235U.
Shop the CELINE Eyewear Collection
#6 – Gucci
Founded in 1903 in Florence, the House of Gucci helped put Italian fashion on the map with high-end handbags, luggage, and shoes. In the mid-1960s, the company transitioned to ready-to-wear clothing.
The brand is renowned for its flashy designs—think big logos, vivid colors, and striking shapes.
Gucci extended the accessories collection in the ’90s to huge success. Traditional Gucci eyewear has bits of bling, lots of black frames, and oversized shapes.
- Gucci shades are often seen on celebrities and influencers, including Gigi Hadid, Billie Eilish, and Haily Beiber.
- The eyewear collection is also a favorite of everyday fashionistas.
- Popular styles include the oversized Gucci GG0956S and the edgy Gucci GG0632S.
Shop the Gucci Eyewear Collection
#5 – Costa Del Mar
Founded by a group of ingenious fishermen, Costa Del Mar started in 1983. They designed their eyewear with the water in mind.
Crafted to withstand the elements while out at sea, this eyewear is all about an active, outdoorsy lifestyle.
The company infuses modern technology into classic shapes like aviators and rectangle sunglasses.
- Costa Del Mar boasts features like 100% UV absorption, providing extra protection.
- Specialized polarized lenses come in marine-inspired colors for a practical yet stylish combination.
Popular styles include the Costa Del Mar 6S9017 Brine 6S9017 and Costa Del Mar 6S4006 Loreto 06S4006.
Shop the Costa Del Mar Eyewear Collection
#4 – Maui Jim
Maui Jim began as a passion project. An entrepreneurial fisherman named Jim Richards started selling sunglasses to locals and tourists at a resort on Ka’anapali Beach in Lahaina.
He saw a need for improved eye protection, so his small business created lenses that could filter harsh rays without diminishing the vivid colors of the islands.
A boat captain named Walter Hester took over in 1991, and an encounter with a mainland distributor soon changed the company’s location and direction.
About five years later, Maui Jim moved far away from the Aloha State—to Peoria, Illinois. Kering Eyewear acquired the brand in 2022, making it a powerhouse in the eyewear industry.
- Maui Jim focuses on crafting protective and highly functional unisex sunglasses.
- The eyewear blends island charm with cutting-edge technology, such as engineered PolarizedPlus2® lenses.
- Popular styles include the Maui Jim Lighthouse and Maui Jim Breakwall.
Shop the Maui Jim Eyewear Collection
#3 – Ray-Ban
Did you know Ray-Ban was founded by Bausch + Lomb, the eyecare company? It’s true! The company was formed in 1937, right around the time civilians started wearing military shades.
Soon, Ray-Ban Aviators were cemented as a favorite of the American public. Nearly fifty years later, this big-screen sunglass brand got significant screen time in Top Gun and became a household name.
- Ray-Ban has extended its Aviator offerings to include a wider variety of shapes and tinted lenses.
- The Wayfarer features thicker frames with the same classic construction.
- Ray-Ban caters to the whole family.
- Popular models include the Ray-Ban RB3183 and Ray-Ban RB3030 Outdoorsman.
Shop the Ray-Ban Eyewear Collection
#2 – Oakley
Inspired by American motorcycle culture, James ‘Jim’ Jannard founded Oakley in 1975. The name became synonymous with the adventurous spirit of the road.
Innovations, including motorcycle grips, PRIZM lens technology, and O-Frame goggles, prove that sports eyewear is this company’s specialty.
Over time, collections expanded to suit a broader range of consumers and lifestyles. Today’s options include eyeglasses and sunglasses for men, women, and kids.
- Oakley’s flagship product was its motocross goggles.
- O-Frame goggles are lined with foam to keep sweat out of your eyes and prevent your lenses from fogging up.
- PRIZM lenses enhance color and contrast by filtering wavelengths of light.
The Oakley RADAR EV PATH OO9208 and Oakley OO9417 HOLBROOK XL are among the most popular styles.
Shop the Oakley Eyewear Collection
#1 – Prada
Your top eyewear brand for 2025 is … Prada!
Mario Prada and his brother, Martino, started a leather goods shop in Milan in 1913. They made exquisite products for the elite, and the small business grew into an empire!
Mario’s daughter, Luisa, took over and ran the store for over twenty years. Then, her daughter, Miuccia, grabbed the reigns in 1978.
Miuccia helped Prada evolve into one of the biggest names in the fashion industry. And it’s still a family business! Her husband, Patrizio Bertelli, and her son, Lorenzo, both play a big part in its success.
- The Devil Wears Prada and “Sex and the City” helped immortalize the brand.
- In 1999, Prada and the De Rigo Group formed Prada eyewear.
- The collection combines classic shapes with a sophisticated and minimalist style.
- Designs often feature oversized frames. Angular lines add interest.
Popular designs include the Prada PR 15WS and the Prada PR 09YV.
Shop the Prada Eyewear Collection
