Your glasses are often the first thing people notice about your face, so they're a great way to express your style. As we look ahead, glasses trends for the next year are shaping up to be an exciting mix of personal expression and elegant, minimalist design.
Whether you prefer a design that makes a statement or one that quietly complements your style, 2026 has something for you. We'll walk through the latest trends in glasses frames to help you find a look that feels authentic, no matter your face shape or size.
The Shift From Bold to Timeless
The world of fashion is always evolving, and eyewear is no exception. The last few years were largely defined by a "more is more" philosophy. This celebrated big, bold statements with heavier frames and prominent designer logos. While that was a fun era, we're now moving into an exciting phase that focuses more on personal style and timeless aesthetics.
Think of it as a shift toward “robust luxury," where classic design meets durable materials. This trend celebrates elegant shapes, comfort and thoughtful details. There's also a growing appreciation for factors like handcrafted construction and sustainable options.
For example, the use of plant-based acetate is becoming a popular choice for brands that value style and environmental responsibility. Plant-based acetate frames are more eco-friendly because they're derived from sources like wood pulp and cotton. This material gives you a comfortable, lightweight feel and is used to create an array of frame styles.
You'll see a refined approach in the color palettes as well. The focus is shifting away from bold colors toward gorgeous, earthy tones that complement a wide range of skin tones.
5 Eyeglasses Trends for the Year Ahead
From updated classics to modern shapes, the year ahead is full of exciting styles for everyone. If you've been thinking about refreshing your look, these five trends are the perfect place to start.
1. Modern Geometric Frames
One of the most defining looks for 2026 is geometric frames. The upcoming take on geometric styles is less about being overly sharp and more about adding a touch of tailored structure to the face, with bold squares, softened edges and rectangular frames with a more pronounced browline. The clean lines and curves are reminiscent of modern architecture, creating a polished and quietly confident look.
Angular geometric frames balance and contrast beautifully with softer facial features, especially on round or oval face shapes. Meanwhile, frames with rounded corners can soften square jawlines. No matter your face shape, the key to loving your pair of geometric specs is finding the right size for your unique proportions.
2. Understated Ovals and Rounds
We’re seeing a major comeback of soft, curved frames, channeling a minimalist, '90s inspired vibe. This trend fits perfectly with the broader fashion industry's move toward simple silhouettes and timeless staples. This modern take on the round frame features a softer, more oval shape, which is a flattering look for a wide variety of faces.
A clean, oval frame complements a minimalist wardrobe, enhancing personal style without overpowering it. The gentle curves of an oval or round frame also work well on faces with more angular features, like square or heart shapes, by softening the jawline and forehead.
3. The Chic Cat Eye
What glasses are in style for both women and men? Cat eye frames. Cat eye glasses are iconic for a reason, and the 2026 version is arguably its most wearable yet. This style of specs was invented in the 1920s, becoming popular in the '50s thanks to stars like Marilyn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn. Cat eye specs have evolved from their dramatic origins and now feature a subtle, chic lift at the corners that instantly brightens the face with a touch of sophistication.
Cat eye frames are famously versatile, flattering nearly any face shape and creating a gentle lift. The secret to choosing the right pair of cat eye specs is to select an angle that mimics your brow line. For those with lower nose bridges, look for cat eye styles with longer nose pads to ensure that signature lift stays in place.
4. Calm Neutrals and Clear Acetate Frames
When it comes to color, consider 2026 the year of the "new neutral." For example, Pantone declared soft white the color of the year for 2026. Neutral color trends reflect a collective desire for simplicity in our busy world.
With that, we can expect a shift toward airy, calming hues like soft taupes, sandy beiges and dusty rose tones. Alongside these solid neutrals, fully transparent crystal acetate frames are having a major moment. This "barely there" aesthetic is perfect for anyone who wants the framing benefit of glasses without a dark rim.
See-through styles are universally flattering because they don't overpower your natural features — they let your face be the star of the show. If you have a complex skin undertone that makes it tricky to find the right frame color, a crystal or champagne toned acetate is often the perfect solution.
5. Reimagined Tortoiseshell
Tortoiseshell will always be in style, but newer specs are giving this classic pattern a fun, fresh update. We’re moving beyond the standard dark brown and yellow mottling and seeing new colors enter the scene, from pearly white patterns to those with hints of olive green or dusty blue. These reimagined designs add unique texture and personal style to a frame.
Overall, tortoiseshell and its beautiful mix of tones add warmth and dimension to any face. The best part is finding the color variation you love most. If you have cool toned skin, look for a tortoise pattern with hints of gray or vanilla. If you have warm toned skin, rich ambers and honeys will make you glow.
A Great Fit Is Always the Latest Eyewear Trend
Let's talk about the most important trend of all and one that never goes out of style — a truly comfortable fit. It’s great to find a frame that you love the look of, but style and comfort should always go hand in hand.
A perfect fit is about confidence. It allows you to move through your day without even thinking about your glasses. Here are three keys to finding a fit that feels as good as it looks:
- Security: The bridge of the glasses should sit securely on your nose without sliding down, even when you look down at your phone or your favorite new book.
- Proportion: The overall width of the frame should be in harmony with your facial width. The temples, or arms of the glasses, should extend straight back and curve behind your ears, not bow outward.
- Comfort: The temples should rest gently over your ears without any pressure, and the bottoms of the frames shouldn’t touch your cheeks, even when you flash a big smile.
Find Your Signature Style With a Fit That’s Right for You
No matter what the latest trend is, whether it's 2026 or beyond, true style always begins with comfort and confidence. That feeling of an effortless fit is why we built our brand.
At Covry, we believe that you should never have to choose between style and comfort. Our collections feature timeless silhouettes designed with our signature Elevated Fit®.
Our Elevated Fit frames are based on measurements of real people and don't just use industry standards. The unique design is defined by three core elements — longer nose pads, reduced frame curvature and a narrowed nose bridge — to ensure your glasses sit securely and comfortably.
Ready to find a trend that feels like it was made for you? Browse our collection and order your pair of Elevated Fit specs today!
