Styles We Loved In Spain: Summer 2023 European Eyewear Trends Set to Make Waves in Canada

This summer, Rob & I were lucky to have had the opportunity to explore the vibrant eyewear scene in Spain. Our vacation was short, but the styles and trends I encountered certainly left a lasting impression! I'm excited to share with you some of the head-turning eyewear trends that I loved and know will make their way to Canada soon. From thick, chunky frames to bold, vibrant colours and show-stealing fashion cords, let's dive into the exciting world of European eyewear trends!

Thick Frames: A Bold Statement

One of the most captivating trends I noticed in Spain was the resurgence of thick, chunky frames. These frames are all about making a bold statement and embracing a unique and retro-inspired look. These eyeglasses offer a distinctive blend of vintage charm and contemporary style. Think oversized square or rectangular frames that demand attention when you walk into a room. The chunky frames come in various materials, from acetate to metal, giving wearers ample choices to express their personalities with confidence. This trend is perfect for those who want to add a touch of drama to their eyewear game…after all, bold is emphatic! 

Bright Colors and Bold Patterns: Expressive and Playful

In Europe, eyewear is not just a functional accessory to enhance your vision or protect your eyes from the sun—it's a form of self-expression. Bright colours and bold patterns take center stage, offering a playful twist on traditional glasses. From vibrant reds and blues to unique tortoiseshell patterns with unexpected pops of colour, the frames I encountered were a true celebration of individuality. 

If bright, saturated colours are not for you, I also noted a lot of swoon-worthy neutral and earth-toned frames, which transition perfectly into fall! 

Fashion Cords for Stylish Practicality

Function meets fashion with the introduction of trendy fashion cords. Gone are the days when eyeglass cords were purely utilitarian; now, they're stylish accessories in their own right. The cords I came across in Europe were adorned with vibrant colours and innovative materials that resembled acetate, adding an extra layer of style to the ensemble. We spotted the popular large-link chains in bright neon and pastel colours, a variety of gemstone hues, and more organic-looking neutral and tortoiseshell patterns. These cords keep your glasses securely around your neck and elevate your overall look. They're a testament to the evolving definition of eyewear as a fashion statement.

Oval and Rectangle-Shaped Frames: Timeless Elegance

While trends come and go, some shapes remain eternally stylish. Oval and rectangle-shaped frames are making a comeback, offering a timeless elegance that suits a wide range of face shapes. The versatility of these shapes was evident in the European eyewear scene, where I saw variations that ranged from subtle and refined to bold and commanding. These classic shapes provide a foundation upon which wearers can build their own unique style, making them a staple in any eyewear collection.

Our vacation may be over, but I know we’ll be seeing many of my favourite sights again soon, right here in Eyetech’s frames & accessories collections! I felt so inspired by the dynamic and creative eyewear trends we encountered in Spain, especially by how seamlessly these styles transitioned from coastal lounge chairs to city streets. It got me wondering how Canadians will incorporate these eye-catching pieces into their own day-to-day looks.  From chunky frames in classic shapes to loud colours and statement cords, there's no shortage of exciting styles that are bound to captivate eyewear enthusiasts in Canada. Whether you're looking to make a bold statement or embrace timeless elegance, these trends offer something for everyone. 

So, keep an eye out for these European-inspired eyewear styles as they make their way to your favourite optometry clinic– we can’t wait to see how you wear them!

Meghan Lima