Sunglasses are the perfect accessory. It doesn’t matter what outfit you’re wearing or what event you’re attending – the right pair of sunglasses will always elevate you into a new sphere of sophistication. When it comes to chic sunnies, these West Queen West boutiques offer a great mix of price points and styles.
The stylish denizens of West Queen West shop for seriously chic sunglasses at this optical boutique. The selection — while on the pricey side — includes gorgeous frames from luxe international labels like Thierry Lasry, Oliver Peoples, Celine and Saint Laurent. You’ll also find a collection of limited edition and vintage sunglasses in unique colours and shapes. Designer frames can be modified with photochromatic lenses (that darken depending on the amount of sunlight) or polarized lenses designed to reduce glare.
West Queen West is an appropriately stylish locale for the Toronto flagship shop for this luxury eyewear brand from the U.K. The beautiful modern showroom stocks hundreds of new and vintage bespoke frames that are timeless in their appeal. The circular sunnies are a quirky round shape favoured by creative-types while the classic aviators are a universally flattering shape for both men and women. Prices are definitely steep but you do get what you pay for here; all of the finely crafted frames are finished by hand at the Cutler and Gross factory in Cadore, Italy.
Sisters Kim and Van Lam have curated a lovely selection of fashion-forward eyeglasses and sunglasses at their small-scale optical shop on West Queen West. The store carries high-end designer brands like Burberry and Stella McCartney and some more distinct looks from indie brands like Andy Wolf Shop and Kilsgaard Eyewear. Eco-friendly shoppers will love the sustainable frames that are handcrafted by Chicago-based eyewear company DRIFT.
It’s one of the best-loved clothing stores in Toronto, especially if you’re looking for styles from a different era. In terms of sunglasses, this beloved vintage boutique specializes in retro frames from the 60s and 70s. If you stop by often and chat up the staff, you can also be the first to know when rare vintage gems come through the shop. There’s not a huge selection here, but the quality of frames and lenses will have you sporting your own entirely unique style.
Nomad takes a subtle yet stylish approach to menswear, with a collection of items that will help you stand out without going overboard. If you want to look stylish but don’t know where to start, the answer is easy: with a pair of Selima Optique sunglasses. Their shades come in a variety of styles, shapes and colours.
This consignment store offers designer frames at bargain prices, so you can stock up and keep a different pair of shades on hand for each day of the week. The shop carries a number of big-name designer brands — Tom Ford, Diesel, Chanel, Dior, Prada and Versace — all for prices that are far, far less than you’d pay in a regular retail store. The selection leans towards contemporary styles, but if you look hard enough, you may be able to spot a pair of vintage frames.
Fashion-forward shoppers will recognize this name as a U.K. staple that finally crossed the pond into Toronto. Shoppers won’t find classic sunglasses in here, as Oliver Spencer prefers to stay ahead of the trends. Their selection of sunglasses will make you look effortlessly and enviably stylish.