6 Cool Eco-Friendly Sunglasses & Shades for Summer

Sunglasses are crucial under the unforgiving Hong Kong sun, but they’re also a wardrobe essential for any blue skies. A pair of cool shades can add so much character and sass to an outfit; however, sunglasses are often made from acrylic, which is not only non-biodegradable but also harmful to the environment.

Want to keep the changing of the seasons distinct and beautiful but still sustainable? Keep reading for 8Shades’ picks of the coolest eco-friendly shades!

See also: 6 Sustainable Sun Hats & Visors for Summer Protection


KNWLS: Yellow Adrenaline Oval Sunglasses

Source: SSENSE

With a slanted oval shape, these sunglasses from the latest it-girl brand KNWLS are one of our faves this season for those sunny days. Not only do they have the most unique silhouette that just begs to be complimented, but they are also handcrafted from 100 percent recycled acrylic!

Available at SSENSE


Bird: Athene Clear Sunglasses

Source: Bird Eyewear

We’re not sure if you’ve noticed, but clear frames seem to be back in fashion and we’re loving how wearable and chic they are! The eco-conscious eyewear label Bird makes its frames with Mazzucchelli cellulose acetate — a naturally derived material made from wood pulp.

Available at Bird Eyewear


& Other Stories: Brown Tortoise Squared Thick Frame Sunglasses

Source: & Other Stories

A cheaper alternative that doesn’t compromise on style, & Other Stories’ rectangle tortoiseshell shades have an unmistakably strong look that simply stands out amongst the rest! We also adore that they’re made from 85 percent recycled polyester, processed from plastic bottles and textile waste.

Available at & Other Stories


Waterhaul: Harlyn Aqua Sunglasses

Source: Waterhaul

On the hunt for something bright and colourful to go with summer’s vibrant palette? Well, these ocean-coloured shades are just the thing! What we love most about these round-framed shades though is that they are designed to be saltwater-resistant and are made from 100 percent recycled fishing net recovered in Cornwall, UK.

Available at Waterhaul


Proof Eyewear: Grove Wood Sunglasses

Source: Proof Eyewear

Looking for something way different? We got you. These unconventional sunglasses with a vintage vibe are handmade from sustainably sourced wood, and hand-polished with water- and sweat-resistant plant-based sealant. As it turns out, you really can have your cake and eat it too.

Available at Proof Eyewear


Szade x Impala: Dollin Sunglasses

Source:  Szade

This one’s for all the Barbie girls in a Barbie world! These matte bubblegum-pink shades with 90s inspired flame decals on the sides are so much more than meets the eye. Szade makes its sunglasses from broken-down and recycled sunglasses collected in China that were destined for landfill — tackling the waste problem at its source.

Available at Szade


Read also: 8 Bio-Acetate Sunglasses to Reinvent Your Summer Wardrobe

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