There are 3 key trends dominating eyewear fashion at the moment, and these are the styles of reading glasses you need to be seen in right now…
1. The return of the ’80s
Fashion is knee deep into an ‘80s revival, and reading glasses are no exception. From wayfarers to aviators to oversized “grandpa glasses”, retro is ruling the roost.
Let’s start with those big, plastic frames you might remember from The Golden Girls, or mums in 80s films. Think giant round specs that seemed to take up half of their face. These styles are affectionately dubbed ‘grandpa glasses’ now, and they’ve become a firm favourite on fashion feeds everywhere.
Oversized and unapologetically bold, these reading glasses offer a brilliant mix of nostalgia and statement style. Plus, they’re practical as you get loads of lens space, which means more comfortable reading.
Then there’s aviator reading glasses, featuring frames with that classic double bridge and teardrop shape. Once the reserve of pilots and Tom Selleck, aviator reading glasses are now cropping up in every stylish setting, from Soho cafes to smart workspaces. They’re lightweight, flattering, and every time you put them on you're guaranteed to feel just a little bit cooler.
Lastly, there’s the wayfarer style frame. Tom Cruise immortalised them in 80s film Risky Business, and the chunky rectangular shape remains one of the most wearable and timeless silhouettes. As reading glasses, they're versatile, flattering on most face shapes, and give off just the right amount of retro swagger.
2. Less is more
Sometimes, simplicity says it all. The current minimalist reading glasses trend is all about clean lines, and considered design. These frames are for those who value form and function, a durable product with refined materials, and clever shaping.
Think classic shapes, like rounded rectangles or soft squares. These reading glasses speak volumes without shouting. They're not about following trends; they're about transcending them.
3. Silent luxury
This one’s for those in the know. Silent luxury isn’t flashy or logo-heavy, it’s about impeccable quality, discreet design, and timeless appeal. It’s the eyewear equivalent of a beautifully tailored coat or the perfect white shirt.
Reading glasses that fall into this category are refined but unfussy. You won’t find gold monograms or bold branding, just high quality materials, subtle finishes, and comfort that speaks of thoughtful design. These are glasses that whisper taste, not trend.
Whether you’re channelling your inner '80s icon, stripping it back with minimalist style, or investing in quiet luxury, there’s a pair of reading glasses out there that perfectly match your mood.
Explore London Mole’s collection and find your perfect frame.