Oversized Sunglasses

Oversized sunglasses are simply sunglasses with larger-than-average frames or lenses. Rather than referring to one particular shape, the term covers everything from large square and round sunglasses to butterfly, cat eye and bug eye styles.

Bug eye sunglasses are a particularly bold type of oversized sunglasses, usually featuring very large rounded or curved lenses. The playful name comes from their exaggerated shape and the amount of the eye area they cover.

Not quite. Bug eye sunglasses are oversized, but not every oversized frame is bug eye. Oversized sunglasses can also be square, rectangular, cat eye, aviator or butterfly shaped.

Butterfly sunglasses typically feature large lenses that become wider towards the outside of the face, creating a silhouette reminiscent of butterfly wings. They're a great choice if you like oversized sunglasses with a softer, more glamorous shape.

Both shapes can sweep upwards towards the temples, but cat eye sunglasses generally have a sharper, more defined upswept corner. Butterfly sunglasses tend to be larger, softer and more rounded through the outer edges.

Yes. Oversized sunglasses have moved back into the spotlight, with large lenses, bug eye shapes and statement frames becoming increasingly prominent again. They are also one of those eyewear styles that regularly comes back around, so a well chosen oversized pair doesn't have to feel overly trend led.

They can. The trick is finding the right proportions rather than assuming the biggest frame will automatically be the best one.

If you have a smaller face, look for a frame that gives you the oversized effect without constantly slipping or overwhelming your features. If you have a broader face, a wider oversized frame can often feel particularly well proportioned.

There's no single face shape that can or can't wear oversized sunglasses. Instead, think about contrast and proportion.

Large angular or square sunglasses can provide contrast against softer, rounder features, while rounded and butterfly shapes can soften a more angular face. Ultimately, the best pair is the one you like when you put it on.

Not at all. Oversized sunglasses can work for anyone. Large aviators, square frames, shields and bold acetate styles can all create an oversized look without feeling particularly masculine or feminine.

Start with the measurements rather than relying purely on the photograph. Look at the lens width, lens height and overall proportions of the frame and compare them with a pair of sunglasses you already own.

A larger eye size doesn't necessarily mean the whole frame will fit loosely – the bridge and arm measurements matter too.

Larger lenses and frames can physically cover more of the area around your eyes than very small sunglasses. However, size alone shouldn't be used to judge the UV protection of a pair of sunglasses.