Y2K and grunge both lean on strong details, and sunglasses are one of the quickest ways to add one. A narrow rimless lens points to the early 2000s, a tinted lens softens a dark outfit, and a cat eye frame adds an edge. Here are four outfit ideas built around frames from LEXE Specs sunglasses.
Y2K: rimless frames and a cropped jacket
The LEXE Galet Sunglasses are rimless, diamond-shaped glasses with UV400 polycarbonate lenses and an alloy frame. They are narrow and sharp, so keep the rest of the outfit streamlined. Try a black cropped jacket such as the LEXE Nova Cropped Jacket, a fitted top and low-slung wide-leg jeans. For more on the look, browse the faux leather jackets.
Y2K: tinted lenses for a softer finish
The LEXE Candy Sunglasses have a small frame and candy-tone lenses in eight colors, from leopard to full blue. Color lenses work best against simple outfits: a white tee, dark denim, nothing competing. The LEXE Daylight Sunglasses come in five lens tones, including black, dark green, transparent and yellow, if you want a quieter option.
Grunge: cat eye with faux leather
A cat eye frame pairs well with faux leather. The LEXE Feline Sunglasses have a retro, lifted shape, while the LEXE Coil Sunglasses add a snake-wrap detail on the frame and UV400 lenses. Wear either with the LEXE Rebel Moto Jacket, a loose faux leather moto jacket in black or pink, and the LEXE Smoke Jeans, which are dark gray and distressed.
Alt: corset top, leopard and a geometric frame
For a night out, the LEXE Vesper Corset Top brings a deep V neckline and lace patchwork in faux leather. Add the LEXE Savanna Pants in leopard print for contrast, and finish with the LEXE Polygon Sunglasses, a geometric frame in four colorways. The architectural lines match the structured top.
Build the outfit in three steps
- Pick the frame first. Decide whether you want a clean rimless line, a bold cat eye or a geometric shape.
- Choose one dark base. Faux leather, black denim or a corset top gives the sunglasses a strong backdrop.
- Add one texture. Distressed denim, leopard print or a lace panel is enough. More than one starts to compete with the frames.
How to choose a frame that suits you
- Round faces tend to suit angular frames such as polygon or diamond shapes.
- Angular faces tend to suit softer cat eye or round frames.
- If you wear a lot of prints or color, choose a simple frame. If your outfit is plain, let the frame be the detail.
Our guide to choosing sunglasses by frame shape has a longer breakdown.
Add a matching phone case
A clear case keeps the focus on the outfit, while a statement print can echo the color of your lenses. The iPhone cases range covers clear, glitter, wallet and magnetic designs, and each product page lists the compatible iPhone models.
Layering for grunge
Grunge works through layers. Start with an oversized tee, add a faux leather jacket, and keep the jeans loose and a little worn. Boots in black ground the outfit, and a pair of tinted sunglasses ties it together. The streetwear outfit ideas with faux leather jackets, wide-leg jeans and boots guide shows more layered combinations.
Looking after your sunglasses
Rinse dust off before wiping, use a soft microfiber cloth, and keep them in a case when they are not on your face. Avoid leaving them on a car dashboard, where heat can warp frames.
Keep the look wearable
- One era reference per outfit is enough. Pair one Y2K piece with modern basics.
- Stay in a tight palette, then add a single accent through the lenses.
- Check lens details on each product page. Frames listed with UV400 lenses block UV light up to 400 nm.
Browse all LEXE Specs sunglasses, or start with the LEXE collection for jackets and tops to match.