We've certainly come a long way from the days of tiny sunglasses. Now, it's all about bug-eyes, oversized structured frames and now, the runway co-signed trend of the season, shields. Very much in line with a general Y2K resurgence, shield sunglasses feel like an homage to a time where everyone's celebrity crushes were Britney Spears and the Backstreet Boys, the masses tuned in weekly to watch The Simple Life and One Tree Hill, and ultra low-rise jeans were all the rage—the lower, the better.
We've seen a general nostalgia for eras past on recent runways, so Balenciaga, Loewe, Stella McCartney, and MM6 Maison Margiela all embracing shield sunglasses isn't too surprising. And, you know a trend is really a trend when it's co-signed by Rihanna—that's just a fact.
On Balenciaga's Spring/Summer 2026 runway, several looks were accessorized with shield sunglasses: a black leather top paired with black pants, an off-white dress over black trousers, a brown leather jacket paired with long, baggy denim shorts, and more. This variety of pairings made the versatility of the style clear, as well as the style's ability add an element of mystery, futurism, and intrigue to any look.
Balenciaga SS26 // Launchmetrics
Balenciaga SS26 // Launchmetrics
Balenciaga SS26 // LaunchmetricsOver at MM6 Maison Margiela's Spring/Summer 2026 show, the shields were slimmer and more rectangular. But unlike the tiny sunglasses we all knew and loved back in 2017-2019, these frames covered a lot of ground. They were paired floral tops, sheer skirts, dresses with bright-colored bikinis peaking through, light blue suits, and truly any style or aesthetic that you could picture. Once again, a case was made for the shield sunglasses as a versatile, outfit completing accessory.
MM6 Maison Margiela SS26 // Launchmetrics
MM6 Maison Margiela SS26 // LaunchmetricsOn Loewe's Spring/Summer 2026 runways, shield sunglasses were accessorized with blue detailing and paired with green mini dresses and yellow shoes, with cardigans draped and wrapped around the shoulders and nothing underneath, sleek green leather jackets, and so much more.
Loewe SS26 // Launchmetrics
Loewe SS26 // Launchmetrics
Loewe SS26 // LaunchmetricsThe shield sunglasses on Stella McCartney's Spring/Summer 2026 runway were a bit more rounded and nuanced. And, paired only with oversized suiting with distinct pointy shoulders, they very much meant business.
Stella McCartney SS26 // Launchmetrics
Stella McCartney SS26 // LaunchmetricsAll in all, shield sunglasses provide both a futuristic element and give a nod to the past—and can be paired with quite literally anything.
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