15 Affordable Sunglasses That Look Expensive
Updated: Dec. 02, 2022Looking glamorous doesn’t have to cost you a bundle. For proof, check out these stylish but cheap sunglasses that are all under $50.
Our editors and experts handpick every product we feature. We may earn a commission from your purchases.
No one will know you didn’t spend a fortune
Sunglasses are the type of accessory that can reveal a lot about your personality—and make or break an outfit. Not only can they make you look like a million bucks, but they’re also necessary to protect you from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Studies show that those rays can seriously damage eyes, increasing your risk of developing vision problems and even cancer, as well as harm the delicate skin around them, causing wrinkles.
So, yes, sunglasses are really important, but they’re also really easy to lose! In fact, you’d be hard-pressed to find somebody who hasn’t misplaced or accidentally left behind their favorite pair at some point. For this reason, you might want to spend a little less on this accessory. The good news is that cheap sunglasses can still be stylish and get the job done—you just need to look for the sticker that says your chosen pair blocks both UVA and UVB rays. Here are 15 affordable styles that look crazy-expensive but aren’t.
Note: Prices listed were accurate as of press time; pricing fluctuations may occur.
Best cheap sunglasses for women with prescriptions
$15.95
These stylish brown shades from Zenni Optical are not only budget-friendly—they also offer bifocal and progressive prescription options. The full cat-eye rim is made from plastic and is flattering on a variety of face shapes. The very low price includes the frame, basic prescription lenses, anti-scratch coating, and UV protection. If you don’t mind splurging on this year-round staple, check out this list of the best sunglasses for UV protection at a variety of price points.
Best cheap sunglasses for aviator fans
$42.00
These Lucas sunglasses from Shop Essence won’t break the bank, but they will give you all the protection you need. Their fashionable aviator style is timeless, and they can be worn by both men and women. If your eyes are feeling less than stellar, here’s how to tell if you have allergies or something more serious.
Best cheap sunglasses for girly girls
$16.00
Finding sunglasses that match your young one’s personality shouldn’t be hard. These adorable heart-shaped “Mermazing” frames by Capelli New York, which feature a mermaid-style print, will do just the trick for your girly girl. Bonus: They also come with a fun storage case that looks like a purse. Perfect for your budding fashionista!
Best cheap sunglasses for boys
$16.00
Girls shouldn’t have all the fun. This pair of dinosaur-themed shades from Nordstrom will have the boy in your life jumping for joy. The style has 100 percent UV protection and comes with a hard case that can withstand even the longest day at the playground. If you’re looking for the perfect present for slightly older kids, check out these 28 cool gifts for boys they’ll brag about to their friends.
Best cheap sunglasses for beach lovers
$14.99
This classic style has been worn on beaches for decades. The plastic frame helps make this specific pair from Target as cheap as can be, but the lenses offer both scratch and UV protection. Slap them on your favorite beach bum and get ready for summer smiles. Great UV protection helps avoid wrinkles in the eye area, and so do these highly recommended eye creams.
Best cheap sunglasses for attention seekers
$15.00
You need a big personality to pull off these fabulous frames from Target! So, where can you wear a pair of rhinestone-studded, pink-tinted sunglasses? Anywhere from a fun day party to a glam (socially distanced) vacation. These affordable shades dress up any outfit, and better yet, they also have UV protection and offer long-lasting wear.
Best cheap sunglasses for timeless dressers
$13.00
Reminiscent of old Hollywood films like Breakfast at Tiffany’s, classic cat-eye sunglasses are the perfect closet staple for the timeless dresser. These affordable Wild Fable frames offer UV protection and can be matched to a plethora of outfits. The frame shape is guaranteed to stay in style, so your $13 investment will go a long way. Looking to hide a hangover? These dark frames can help.
Best cheap sunglasses for classic beauties
$49.99
These designer Ralph by Ralph Lauren frames are perfect for the naturally gorgeous woman who doesn’t need much to complement a look. Their monotone, neutral color goes with nearly every skin tone, so you don’t have to stress about buying them online. Plus, the butterfly style is made with a variety of face shapes in mind and designed to fit women with an attitude.
Best cheap sunglasses for athletes
$48.00
Sunski sunglasses are known for fusing innovation and performance in their styles. Although this fashionable pair sports an affordable price tag, they don’t skimp on the extras. The smart polarized lenses offer optimal UV protection, and the polycarbonate frames ensure that they don’t feel heavy as you go about your athletic pursuits.
Best cheap sunglasses for toddlers with an attitude
$29.99
Your saucy toddler can express her personality with these super fun pineapple-shaped shades from GlamBaby. The glitter frames have rhinestone accents that will make her feel like a true star. Perfect for ages three to six, these shades offer 100 percent UV protection essential for developing eyes.
Best cheap sunglasses for those who love the ’80s
$42.00
These wraparound shades are not for wallflowers. If you want to take center stage with some serious ’80s-inspired style, look no further than these Rad + Refined rainbow reflective lenses with lightning-bolt legs. This retro but wallet-friendly choice is sure to turn heads and start conversations. Speaking of your favorite decade, these 18 pictures will definitely bring you back to the ’80s.
Best cheap sunglasses for male fashionistas
$49.99
Men love designer wares at a discount, too! If that describes the guy in your life, pick up a pair of these Armani Exchange shades. They feature an army-green frame with mirrored dark violet and red lenses, and their rectangle shape is perfect for urban sophisticates who like to stay in step with style trends.
Best cheap sunglasses for the wild at heart
$14.99
These fun feline-inspired shades are great for women who like to walk on the wild side every now and then—without sacrificing UV protection. The bold leopard print gives the wearer a sharp look, and metal and plastic make these sunglasses durable but affordable. Check out these other simple fashion upgrades that will make you look expensive.
Best cheap sunglasses for hippies
$16.99
These awesome gold-rimmed shades with petite black lenses from Target are reminiscent of popular ’70s styles. The circular shape gives this style a retro vibe, but they still feel fashionable and of-the-moment. At less than $20 a pop, you’ll be able to express yourself affordably.
Best cheap sunglasses for men with prescriptions
$35.95
Zenni comes through again with a fashionable and functional choice for men who like to stretch a dollar. These gunmetal glasses have an updated aviator shape that can be customized according to the wearer’s prescription; a bifocal option is also available for less than $40. By the way, here’s how to keep your face mask from fogging up your glasses.
Want more deals and product picks sent directly to your inbox? Sign up for the Stuff We Love newsletter!
