By Emily Kopec

Thanks in large part to celebrities, the sunglasses trend has exploded in recent years. Sunglasses are now regarded as a fashion statement that doesn’t just finish off your look, but rather defines it. Throw on a pair of killer shades and your outfit goes from ho-hum to chic in two seconds.

It seems no sunglass style is too outrageous as we’re seeing everything from bug-eyes to cat-eyes worn by people from all walks of life, in all lines of business. This season, retro oversized shades remain the strongest trend. This is not a free pass to pick any random retro style you think might be stylish or you can end up with a design that doesn’t quite fit that era ~ or even worse, that doesn’t fit your face ~ and end up with a pair that’s completely out of place and makes you look like a crazy person. Unless you’re going for the crazy look (god bless and let your freak flag fly if you are), pay close attention to these three specific styles that will sizzle this summer.

Awesome Aviators

Johnny Knoxville had a big hand in re-jumpstarting the aviator craze, and thankfully you don’t have to be a jackass to wear them. The way they dip down lowww gives you that effortless cool vibe. When rocking an aviator lens, it’s kind of hard not to get the party started. Aviators typically have thin metal wire rims. The shade size goes from average to as large as you dare to go, but they don’t have to be large to pack a punch. In fact, we’re seeing a tamer aviator this season and it looks just as hip. Bonus points if they have a gradient lens. A large selection of aviators ~ as well as all the styles mentioned here – are available at discount stores like T.J. Maxx and Marshalls, but we’re mentioning the big shot brands too. So if you want to invest in a great pair of aviators, check out Ray-Ban’s “Cockpit RB3362” (unisex) or Juicy Couture’s “Juicy Love Affair” (women’s). Nice shades, bro.

Oversized and Glamorous with all the Fixings

If you have diva-esque tendencies and your pulse races at the sight, sound, smell, and/or thought of the mall, glam shades are for you. They have a retro feel with a definitive modern edge. While the shape of the lens can be oval, rectangular or a combination of both, what this style will always be is notably oversized. This is where it can get tricky. Generally, women with prominent facial features can pull off the McSupersized lenses. Women with delicate features can still wear large lenses but should err toward the conservative side. Don’t worry, you’ll still get to pull off a dramatic, sophisticated look. Of course, you’ll want the side arms to have some bling-bling going on, whether it’s a logo or a scattering of tiny gemstones. Too many = tacky, so choose a tasteful arrangement. If you must spurge, do so on Gucci’s “GG 2965.” High-maintenance? Maybe. Stylish? Definitely.

Big yet Streamlined with a Touch of Jackie O

What we’re talking about here is similar to the previous style, but the frames and arms are thinner and they have an overall lighter feel. Look for big sunglasses with round lenses that flatter your face. They have little to no extra details ~ perhaps just a subtle gold or silver accent. Stay away from clunky styles and anything big enough to be on an Olsen twin. The look is classic sophistication with just enough edge to get you noticed, similar to what Jackie O wore. The celebrity who now nails this look is Kate Beckinsale. She’s photographed wearing this picture perfect style time and time again and it remains looking fresh. Kate’s lens of choice? Oliver Peoples’ “Harlot.” They have that 70s glam while keeping clean, light lines. Yummy.

Now that you’re caught up on the latest lens scoop, we’d like to offer a parting piece of advice before you decide what will be shielding your peepers from the sun this summer. When trying on sunglasses (And that is a given, right? Always try on sunglasses before buying!), forgo those teeny tiny mirrors and find a full-length mirror to evaluate how they look on you. How they look on your face is important, but it also matters how they work with your body. It’s all about the total look.