FROM TOP: Downing sunglasses in walnut tortoise, Warby Parker ($95). Retro polarized sunglasses, Gold & Wood ($1,040). Available at Lunette Optic.
Warby Parker’s trendsetting styles will make even more of an impact in Boston thanks to the opening of the brand’s 1,200-square-foot boutique on Newbury Street. The new store has a library feel, with eyewear set on shelves among books and custom-made brass lamps. The vintage-inspired men’s sunglasses are built for summer’s leisure activities, be it a barbecue on the beach or a picnic in the Public Garden. Featuring colors like elderberry, green spruce, and Catalina blue, four new shapes will make their debut this season—the Northcote, Watts, Arthur, and Theo—though it’s the Downing sunnies that really have our attention. Drawing inspiration from smart British style, the sleek tortoise frames feel effortlessly classic.
Ted Mogtader of Lunette Optic has also seen retro frames make a big splash this summer. “The classic wayfarer and Clubmaster look with mirrored lenses is really in style,” he says. Frames made of Bubinga wood from Gold & Wood and Chrome Hearts make a statement, as do matte finishes in black and tortoiseshell from IC Berlin—all guaranteed to add the perfect top note to your summer ensemble. Lunette Optic, 121 High St., 617-338-7200; Warby Parker, 83 Newbury St., 508-658-7444