12 Stylish Nordstrom Sunglasses That Look Expensive but Won't Break the Bank

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A new season is the perfect opportunity to restock your closet. For us, that means hunting down everything from seasonal shoes to handbags, and although we might not be experiencing sun-soaked days anymore, fall is also a great time to pick out a new pair of sunglasses.

At Nordstrom, you can browse through an expansive inventory that includes all sorts of brands and styles. Whether you're looking to incorporate a new trend or you want something timeless, we've pored over the options to curate a stellar list of favorites. In fact, we've even tested some of these sunglasses ourselves — wearing them to gauge their comfort level and durability. The result? A fail-proof selection that will work with a variety of face shapes, styles, and budgets.

If you're looking for a modern cat eye, our editor found the perfect black pair that she wears with everything. Prefer an oversize shape? We uncovered an editor favorite for that category as well. From chunky, retro-inspired aviators to patterned, angular shapes and everything in between, we've made it easy to hone in on the perfect pair of sunglasses this season. Whether you're looking to spend less than $20 or are ready to invest in a designer pair you'll wear for years, find exactly what you're looking for in our picks ahead.

Best Small Gold Frame Sunglasses

Best Small Gold Frame Sunglasses

BP. 54mm Round Sunglasses ($15)

When you want your sunglasses to play a supporting role instead of stealing the show, this understated and classic pair will never steer you wrong. The soft, square silhouette complements a variety of face shapes, and they're just the right size.

Best Tortoise Shell Aviator Sunglasses
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Best Tortoise Shell Aviator Sunglasses

Aire Whirlpool 53mm Aviator Sunglasses ($39)

For a subtle '70s vibe, you can't go wrong with chunky, tortoise shell aviators. These have a slight khaki tint, and even though you can still see your eyes, they offer excellent full-coverage UV protection.

Best Oversize Square Sunglasses
PS Photography | Anvita Reddy

Best Oversize Square Sunglasses

Quay Contoured 45mm Polarized Cat Eye Sunglasses ($57, was $85)

There's something undeniably glamorous about a pair of black, oversized sunglasses. If you're looking for a modern shape that doesn't feel too retro-inspired, this pair from Quay fits the bill. Our editor tested these sunglasses out and thinks they pair equally well with casual outfits or dresses and heels. For more details, read her Quay Contoured 45mm Polarized Cat Eye Sunglasses.

Editor quote: "I love a pair of square-shaped black sunglasses. It's a bold yet timeless style that makes me feel chic, and Quay's Front Cover style is the epitome of glamorous. The frame is slightly oversized for my face, but I love it. When I sport these, I feel effortless but bold. Plus, I'm obsessed with the gold detailing on the sides. These sunglasses truly go with everything; they can dress up something simple like jeans and a T-shirt or perfectly accessorize a dress and heels." — Anvita Reddy, assistant editor, Commerce

Best Small Oval Sunglasses
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Best Small Oval Sunglasses

Le Specs Outta Love 51mm Oval Sunglasses ($65)

Whether you're throwing these sunglasses on with your trenchcoat or pairing them with linen trousers and mules, they have a minimal elegance that's cool and understated. The ecru shade feels unexpected, but you can also grab them in tortoise shell.

Best Round Cat Eye Sunglasses
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Best Round Cat Eye Sunglasses

Polaroid 54mm Polarized Round Sunglasses ($70)

If you're stuck between wanting a cat eye shape or a round pair of sunglasses, this option combines both. We especially love the eye-catching details, like the keyhole bridge, all-black frame, and black polarized lenses.

Best Modern Cat Eye Sunglasses
PS Photography | Jessica Andrews

Best Modern Cat Eye Sunglasses

Quay Call The Shots 43mm Gradient Cat Eye Sunglasses ($75)

For a trendy twist on a classic shape, these cat eye sunglasses from Quay feel especially fresh. They're slightly oversized and have just a touch of gold detail to make them sharp and elevated. Our editor owns them and gets compliments every time she wears them. For more details, read her Quay Call The Shots Cat Eye Sunglasses review.

Editor quote: "There's nothing I love more than a pair of black cat-eye sunglasses — and this is my favorite style yet. The oversized shape is classic and glamorous, while the cat eye gives the shades a sexy, modern touch. They feel so comfortable on my face thanks to the nose pads, and I get a ton of compliments every time I wear them. With their versatile black color, the glasses complement every outfit I pair them with, from a formal ballgown to a matching sports bra and leggings set. Seriously." — Jessica Andrews, senior content director, Commerce and PS UK

Best Classic Cat Eye Sunglasses
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Best Classic Cat Eye Sunglasses

Marc Jacobs Cat Eye Sunglasses ($98)

For a timeless pair of cat-eye sunglasses, we're loving this slim, lightweight style from Marc Jacobs. They come with full UV protection and are available in three different colors. While you could go with black or dark tortoise shell, this plum shade feels sophisticated and unexpected.

Best Gradient Sunglasses
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Best Gradient Sunglasses

Coach Gradient Square Sunglasses ($192)

For an undeniably glamorous pair of statement sunnies, don't miss this peachy pink option from Coach. They're perfect for achieving that vintage Palm Beach aesthetic.

Best Patterned Sunglasses
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Best Patterned Sunglasses

Kate Spade New York Daeshas Polarized Cat Eye Sunglasses ($195)

Pair these gingham sunnies with a bold lip to instantly punch up the most basic outfit. The gold-toned spades add just a touch of bling to the temples.

Best Round Sunglasses
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Best Round Sunglasses

Ray-Ban Polarized Round Sunglasses ($203)

The keyhole bridge and round shape of these sunglasses offer plenty of retro style, but their universally-flattering form works with all sorts of aesthetics and face shapes. The polarized lenses make for a glare-free experience, so they're especially perfect for a day spent outside.

Best White Sunglasses
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Best White Sunglasses

Fendi Roma 52mm Oval Sunglasses ($266, was $380)

We're happily wearing white after Labor Day if it looks this good. The Fendi glasses are cut in an oval shape and feel slightly oversize. Finished off with a UV-protected lens, they feel effortlessly cool.

Bed Red Sunglasses
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Bed Red Sunglasses

Gucci 52mm Oval Sunglasses ($270, was $390)

For those that favor a bold look, opt in for these firecracker Gucci sunnies. The vibrant red acetate frames exude confidence and sophistication, while the sleek oval shape adds a touch of nostalgic, retro glamour.

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- Additional reporting by Natasha Marsh


Angela Elias is a contributing editor for PS Shopping. In her former roles at PS, she led the relaunch of its Latine identity and family-focused verticals, directed its Home vertical, and hosted shopping segments for TV Guide Network and video content for brands like Pier 1 and Walgreens. She has nearly 15 years of experience working in the lifestyle space as a writer, editor, content strategist, director, on-camera talent, and publicist.



Natasha Marsh is a freelance writer who writes about fashion, beauty, and lifestyle. Prior to freelancing, she held styling staff positions at The Wall Street Journal, Burberry, Cosmopolitan, British GQ, and Harper's Bazaar.