Keeping up with trends can be tough, especially for prescription eyewear shoppers. After all, you want frames that feel modern and work for your daily life without needing to buy a new pair every month. While the seasons dictate our wardrobes, they also affect the function and material of our glasses. For instance, the ultraviolet (UV) protection needed for the July sun is different from the glare reduction for wet winter roads. And while a lightweight frame might work in May, it might get lost when paired with a heavy December scarf.
In our guide, we'll break down what's in and out for every season and help you build a collection so you can look and feel your best no matter the time of year.
Spring Trends: Fresh Pastels and Wireframes
Spring is all about light colors and breezy fabrics, so it only makes sense for your frames to match them. Spring frame styles in fashion right now include thin, geometric wireframes and soft pastels that catch light rather than absorb it. More specifically, the color “Jelly Mint” is a soft green that's been flagged as a key color for the season by trend forecasters like Lifecycle PLM.
However, if you're not ready to commit to green, you might opt for the modern and serene Blue Aura — a trendy grayed-blue pastel that pairs well with all kinds of styles. As for colors that are out this season, heavy and dark matte solids like navy might be too harsh and heavy for the face, dominating it rather than complementing it.
Summer Style: Bold Shades and UV Defense
When the heat rises, trends get bolder. Summer glasses styles this season include bright statement pieces that also protect you from the year's strongest sun.
Amber Haze is a summer color that's currently in, with its rich yellow and touch of green perfectly matched for warm weather clothing or casual day wear. Another is the rebellious Electric Fuchsia, a high-energy pink that lets you keep your outfit simple while your glasses do the talking.
As for summer frame styles in fashion, the tiny sunglasses that had their moment a few years ago are officially out, and larger frames are taking center stage. While the oversized frames pair well with the bold colors of the season, they also offer better coverage to protect your skin and eyes from harsh UV rays. You might also opt for polarized lenses for extra protection, as they'll cut through the harsh glare that comes off of water and pavement.
Autumn Shift: Warm Tones and Tortoise
As the air cools and the days get shorter, we're drawn to the rich colors and warm layers of the changing season. More specifically, autumn frame styles in fashion include the classic tortoise pattern, which offers a depth of color that perfectly complements the knits, layers and colors of falling leaves. Cocoa Powder will also be popular in 2026, a rich, red-toned brown that gives a feeling of cozy comfort.
As for frame styles, we're seeing a retro revival take over, with aviators and cat-eye frames making a comeback. Unlike the cool silver aviators of the past, the modern versions feature warm metals like gold and copper, offering both a vintage cool and modern warmth. As for cat-eye frames, we're seeing both thick frames with rhinestones as well as thin frames with modern, edgy details that make them current in every era.
On the flip side, neon brights and cool-toned icy pastels that felt right in spring and summer will clash with the warm, earthy wardrobe of the fall. To complement fall frame styles in fashion, opt for a heavier, more substantial acetate just as you swap your linen for wool as the air turns crisp. These sturdier frames can balance the visual weight of layers, scarves and hats so your eyewear pops with the rest of your outfit.
Winter Durability: Bold Acetates and Protection
Winter brings harsher conditions for your eyes and glasses, from the biting wind to the snow glare. For this reason, winter frame styles in fashion include durable, bulkier options that can withstand frigid temperatures. Transformative Teal was named the Color of the Year by WGSN and Coloro, a deep blue-green that perfectly matches the mood of the season. Choose this hue in a sturdy, chunky acetate frame, and you're bound to stand out this winter.
Additionally, fragile and rimless styles are out and best left for milder months. They may get lost when worn against a bulky coat and winter gear. They're also more prone to damage if dropped with cold, gloved hands.
Winter also means more screen time as we retreat indoors. For that reason, it's a great idea to invest in blue light filtering lenses this season. Adding this tech to your winter frames can reduce the visual fatigue from spending longer evenings in front of devices. Impact-resistant frames and anti-fog coatings are also a great option if you choose to brave the cold and venture outdoors.
Building a Year-Round Eyewear Wardrobe
Trying to keep up with every single trend can be challenging, but collecting a core vs. accent wardrobe can help. This approach is all about investing in one reliable pair of glasses that works for most of your daily life, and then choosing a second affordable, on-trend accent pair.
For instance, you might get both a classic tortoise or rectangle frame on top of a Jelly Mint frame for spring or a bold teal for winter. This way, you can easily switch them out for the season without breaking the bank. This approach also lets you make your glasses fun accessories, like a scarf or hat, instead of a purely medical device. You wouldn't wear the same shoes to the beach and a business meeting, so it only makes sense to keep your eyewear just as versatile.
To make the rotation last, be sure to properly store your glasses. When you swap out summer frames for autumn, place them in a hard protective case instead of a drawer. Also, be sure to avoid extreme temperatures, since acetates can warp. By properly storing your glasses, you can make sure your seasonal favorites are ready to wear when their time comes around again.
Find Seasonal Eyewear Trends at Eyemart Express
Quality eyewear should be timeless, even when you're trying to keep up with the latest trends. For over 30 years, Eyemart Express has helped people see and feel better. From bold seasonal statement pieces to everyday essentials, our vast collection of frames has something for every look.
Best of all, you can rely on us to get your glasses quickly. Our skilled lab technicians can craft your new glasses in no time, and you'll get a great style that fits your wallet. Shop our eyewear online or visit a store near you today to find your new favorite pair.
