What are wayfarer sunglasses?

A wayfarer is a thick-rimmed plastic frame with a trapezoid lens shape: a straight, strong brow line that is slightly wider than the bottom of the lens. The shape was made famous in the 1950s, when moulded plastic frames were new and daring, and it went on to become one of the most copied designs in eyewear. It sits somewhere between a square and a rectangle, which is exactly why it suits so many faces.

Our version is the Venturi. Instead of the heavy, chunky original, it's a slender, impeccably proportioned frame with clean, unbroken lines. It feels light on the face, but it's made from dense recycled plastic, so it still feels solid in the hand.

The Venturi in six colours

Venturi Black is the classic choice and works with everything. Venturi Havana gives you the warm tortoiseshell look that suits wayfarers so well. Venturi Champagne is lighter and softer, while Venturi Blue, Venturi Green and Venturi Orange add colour without changing the timeless shape.

Who suits wayfarer sunglasses?

The wayfarer is often called the most universal sunglasses shape, and there's a reason for that. Its straight top line adds structure, while the softer lower edge keeps it from looking severe.

• Round faces: the angular brow line adds definition and makes the face look a little longer.
• Oval faces: almost any wayfarer works, so pick the colour you like.
• Heart-shaped faces: a slim wayfarer like the Venturi balances a wider forehead without looking top-heavy.
• Square faces: go for a slimmer frame rather than an oversized one, so the corners don't repeat a strong jaw.

Want to go deeper? Our guide which sunglasses suit my face? walks you through every face shape with real frames.

How to style wayfarers

Wayfarers are the jeans-and-T-shirt of sunglasses. They work with a denim jacket, a suit, a summer dress or a sweatshirt, and they look right in the city as well as on the beach. Black is the most graphic option; havana and champagne are softer and pair nicely with neutral, earthy colours. If you usually wear black frames, try Venturi Green or Venturi Blue for an easy way to add colour. Because the Venturi is slim, it also works well if you find classic wayfarers too heavy.

Are wayfarers still in style?

Yes. The wayfarer is one of the few shapes that never really goes out of fashion. Trends move between bigger and smaller versions, and right now slimmer, more refined frames sit alongside the oversized looks. See where the shape fits into the bigger picture in our sunglasses trends for 2027.

Materials, UV400 and CE marking

The Venturi is made from 100% recycled plastics, with an rPCTG front and recycled cellulose propionate temples. Each temple has a stainless steel core, and the frame uses 5-barrel optical hinges and friction-lock screws, so it stays tight over time. The lenses are made from recycled PMMA and have certified UV400 protection. All ECO SHADES sunglasses are CE marked and covered by a 2-year warranty. Price: $50 / C$60 / €29.95 / 199 kr.

FAQ about wayfarer sunglasses

Are wayfarers square or rectangular?

Neither exactly. A wayfarer is a trapezoid: the top of the lens is wider than the bottom, and the brow line is straight and strong. That places it between a square and a rectangular frame.

Are wayfarer sunglasses unisex?

Yes. Wayfarers are worn by men and women, and the Venturi works just as well on either.

Do wayfarers suit round faces?

Yes, they're one of the best shapes for round faces, because the straight brow line adds structure and contrast.

What's the difference between wayfarer and aviator sunglasses?

A wayfarer is a thick, angular plastic frame with a straight brow line. An aviator has a double bridge and teardrop lenses that curve down towards the cheek. Wayfarers read more graphic; aviators read more relaxed.

Are your wayfarer sunglasses polarised?

No, our lenses are not polarised, but they have certified UV400 protection. Find out when polarisation matters in are polarised sunglasses worth it?

Like the straight lines? Also see our rectangular sunglasses or the double-bridge aviator sunglasses.