Besides denim maxi skirts, suede jackets and faux-fur coats, our most recent obsession is the sleek, small sunglasses inspired by everyone’s favourite fashion era, the 90s. Don’t worry – we’re not talking about The Matrix-like, black-out throwbacks. Eyewear trends have thankfully matured with us, and for 2025, they look much more polished and wearable. 

Teeny-tiny frames are everywhere – not only on the Prada and Miu Miu catwalks, but also on some of fashion’s biggest stars: Rihanna, Sydney Sweeney, Bella Hadid, Hailey Bieber and Taylor Russell have all been sporting barely-there shades.

But which style should you go for, and how can you wear them in a fashionable way without looking like you’re stuck in a time capsule? 

Finding the perfect pair of eyewear can be tricky, especially when there are so many fashionable styles to choose from including tinted aviators and round micro-shades. Read on for Stylist’s expert guide on how to wear the 90s sunglasses trend in 2025. 

If you’re not ready to go too bold with your eyewear, this is a great place to start. Round frames are similar to your usual sunnies but slightly smaller in silhouette.

Oval shapes were all over Miu Miu’s autumn/winter 2023 catwalk, bringing round glasses back on our radar. Since then, they’ve been getting smaller and less angular.

To nail the trend, opt for glasses with a subtle oval shape that curves all the way to the nose arch. Lighter shades like cream, grey and tortoise-shell brown are a good option as they’re easier to style and less harsh than an all-black pair. 

Nineties sunglasses were small, sure – but they were also bold. Tinted lenses were everywhere back then, and they’re making a comeback. The key is to pick frames with a sleek silhouette and clean lines. Skip heavy logos and embellishments and let the tinted lenses do the talking for that effortless, throwback vibe.

When styling tinted aviators, the trick is in the balance. It’s all about mixing high and low fashion to make them feel wearable for today. Tinted sunglasses bring a nostalgic feel, so pair them with casual, effortless pieces. 

Take inspiration from Amaka Hamelijnck (above) who wears slouchy wide-leg trousers, a dark brown leather jacket and a fluffy white hood with hers during Copenhagen Fashion Week. 

Also known as ‘Bayonetta glasses’ on TikTok, rectangular specs and shades are everywhere. Look towards Bella Hadid, who is all about micro cat-eyes and sharp angles, and Rihanna, who leans into futuristic, sci-fi-inspired pairs.

A simple black style will go with anything and instantly gives off a Gisele Bündchen in The Devil Wears Prada vibe. Wear your hair slicked back to let the frames take the spotlight, then lean into an office-ready outfit and pair with a blouse, a pretty plaid mini skirt and cute kitten heels. Or go for a more tailored look, as pictured, and turn to your beloved blazers and structured shirts. 

Images: Getty; courtesy of brands