Top 6 picks for cool & affordable summer sunglasses

On a bright, sunny spring day, sunglasses serve the valuable purpose of shielding our eyes from harsh UV rays while also complementing any outfit. As the warmer weather arrives, sunglasses rise to the top of the accessory must-haves. They protect our vision from glare and add a stylish finishing touch whether worn on the face or hung casually from a shirt.

Some may be hesitant about finding a pair of sunglasses that suit them well. However, with the wide variety of styles, shapes, and colors available, the right fit is out there. You don't need to spend a small fortune either. This article highlights 6 affordable options worth considering for the spring and summer seasons.

Carfia Polarized Sunglasses

Like many fans, anticipation runs high for the upcoming release of the latest James Bond film, No Time to Die. Viewers can't wait to see Daniel Craig back in action as Agent 007 and to take note of all the stylish trends. Bond sports some sleek onyx frames by Barton Perreira in the film - a designer look. For those seeking the 007 advantage at a more affordable cost, these $22 polarized sunglasses from Carfia strike a similar understated note with their dark coloring. While not the exact designer model, they channel the suave sophistication of Bond for casual summer wear, without breaking the bank.

Le Specs No Biggie

With their clear frames, the No Biggie sunglasses from Le Specs seamlessly complement any outfit. The minimalist design looks sharp paired with both casual and dressier spring ensembles. Their versatile clear frames mesh well with any attire, from a t-shirt and shorts to a blazer and chinos.

The frames have a hybrid shape that is neither fully rounded nor square, suiting both rectangular and oval face structures. They are affordably priced for a stylish accessory. The clear frames inject a clean, modern look into any springtime look without the worry of babying a costly pair of shades. Their universal design works for all types of warm-weather events in a casual garden atmosphere.

Carfia Round Polarized

Made from a durable nylon-based acetate material, these rounded frames from Carfia offer protection from scratches and breaks. Even better, they feature polarized lenses for just $23. Polarization reduces glare on bright surfaces, enhancing visibility and comfort on sunny days. Until recently, this lens technology was mainly found in premium sunglasses. However, as the process has become more cost-effective, polarization is now an affordable option available in a wider price range. For under $25, these Carfia shades provide clarity of vision along with flexibility and impact resistance.

MVMT Hyde

Founded in 2013, MVMT aims to make fashionable accessories affordable for all. In 2018, respected watchmaker Movado acquired the company, allowing MVMT to maintain reasonable prices while ensuring high-quality standards.

The Hyde sunglasses demonstrate MVMT's ability to deliver stylish, functional eyewear at an accessible $63 price point. Featuring a metal frame core and rounded lenses, this classic shape complements both oval and triangular face shapes. An understated black and gray tortoiseshell pattern adds subtle detail elements. But these shades don't just look the part - they also feature polarization for clearer vision and glare reduction. Backed by Movado's expertise and sold at an affordable price, the Hyde perfectly marries form and function from a trusted brand.

Ray-Ban Rb4306 Hexagonal 

No collection of stylish sunglasses is complete without a pair from iconic brand Ray-Ban. Though not inexpensive at $144, the price represents good value for a high-quality Ray-Ban design. The Rb4306 model applies a modern twist to the classic look with its hexagonal lenses. Featuring shades of rich Havana and dark brown in a vintage-inspired tortoiseshell pattern, this timeless option flatters all skin tones. The angular silhouette puts a fresh spin on an otherwise traditional rounded frame shape. Versatile and complementary to any ensemble, these Ray-Bans are a wardrobe staple for spring and summer.

AJ Morgan Castro Round

Offering outstanding value for the money, these $13 sunglasses from AJ Morgan deserve continual recognition. Featuring classic tortoiseshell frames combined with durable metal accents on the arms and bridge, the Castro Round exudes contemporary styling. At such an incredibly low price point, they make an excellent choice for those who frequently use and misplace their sunglasses over the warm months. Due to their affordable cost, there’s no need to baby these shades. With resilient construction and trend-right detailing, the Castro Round delivers dependable protection from UV rays season after season for just $13 - a true bargain that’s hard to surpass. Their consistent popularity with readers shows they continue to be a top budget-friendly pick.