It's safe to say that J.Crew has established itself as the no-brainer destination for stylish basics that don't feel basic. Even though the brand stocks the foundational building blocks of our wardrobe, its clever styling, modern-but-timeless shapes, and on-point merchandising sets it apart. So, when the news broke that J.Crew would debut its own in-house line of sunglasses, we were giddy to see which shapes and styles made the cut as to what J.Crew is essentially defining as the new must-have "basics" of the sunnies world. Sure, it has carried other eyewear brands, but what would it debut as the new sunglasses standard?Unsurprisingly, the collection of shades — which includes everything from a subtle cat-eye to a streamlined aviator — is classic, versatile, and works with a variety of face shapes and style tastes. Each style features CR-39 scratch-resistant lenses, 100% UV protection, and the highest quality acetate (while still coming in at under $150). But, the brand tells us, the signature of these sunnies lies in what some may view as the tiniest detail: the hinge. The sleek and durable set of four screws means you won't have to worry about the arms getting loosey-goosey or falling off altogether, even if you wear your pair on the daily.
Read on to get acquainted with the collection (there's a shape for every style personality, promise), and to follow the brand's head stylist Gayle Spannaus' tips for styling these babies to J.Crew standards.
Pattern Play
Want a printed pair that goes with just about everything? Go for the tortoise. "Tortoise sunglasses are always in style. If you want to be louder with your clothing, a tortoise sunglass is the perfect balance. They go with every skin tone and hair color, and everyone should have a pair in their wardrobe," says Spannaus.
J.Crew Irving Sunglasses in Blond Tortoise, $118, available at J.Crew.
Understated Cat-Eyes
For the bolder, cat-eye shape, a soft color balances the statement and goes especially well with all your equally airy summer staples. Spannaus explains, "The softness of the blush brings subtlety to the drama of the cat-eye. It pairs nicely with linens, denims, and any washed, lightweight fabrics. They are a nod to summer in a big way."
J.Crew Ryan Sunglasses in Blush, $128, available at J.Crew.
Gray — Yes, Gray
So, you've got your red statement sunnies, and your classic black, tortoise, and even blush ones. What's next in the collection? A minimalist-approved gray frame. "The gray is an unexpected neutral," says Spannaus. "It’s an update to your basic black sunglass and works well with everything — patterns to full-tonal, office to weekend."
J.Crew Betty Sunglasses in Grey, $128, available at J.Crew.
Delicate Aviators
Rose gold is undoubtedly taking over as a new favorite hardware on everything from watches to leather jackets, and sunglasses are no exception. Plus, aviators aren't just for the beach, you know. "There can be something really powerful about an aviator paired with a structured suit. They don’t only have to be about a string bikini and beachy hair," says Spannaus. And for an even larger version of this frame, try the Jack style.
J.Crew Jill Sunglasses in Rose Gold, $98, available at J.Crew.
Going Bold
When it comes to this round, bright-red frame, it's all about balance. "If you’re going to step out of the box and wear red sunglasses, I would streamline it with very classic pieces," says Spannaus. "This is where you revert back to your stripes or camels or navies, so that the red doesn’t look like you’re in costume."
J.Crew Sam Sunglasses in Neon Persimmon, $118, available at J.Crew.
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