fashion

'After looking everywhere for elevated summer sunglasses, I finally found THE pair.'

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A great pair of sunglasses is the ultimate style shortcut.

Just ask Mamamia fashion contributor Annabel Falco, who recently shared an Instagram post about how her new shades were taking her everyday looks to chic new levels.

The Brisbane stylist purchased a pair of oversized sunglasses and said they're the missing piece that will transform any basic look.

Watch: Are skinny jeans making a comeback? Our fashion experts discuss. Post continues below.


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"Sunglasses are the biggest hack in my world," Falco shared, before demonstrating the effect her new shades had on her simple outfit of a striped tee and black pants.

"There are moments where I feel a little boring in my outfits… this one item is going to make my entire wardrobe feel fresh."

Falco's shades are from cult eyewear brand Chimi, and fall into the category of what I'm calling "shield" sunglasses.

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Image: Instagram/@annabelfalco.

A more rounded, futuristic-looking version of the ever-popular aviators, they're the shape that's set to be everywhere this summer.

And after eyeing off the style for months, this was the final sign that I need a pair in my line-up.

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Luxury bands including Tom Ford, Loewe, Phoebe Philo and Bottega Veneta have all come out with similar style.

Plus, celebrities including Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Rihanna and Kris Jenner have worn the fashion-forward shape.

Rosie Huntington-Whiteley wears shield-style sunglasses.Rosie Huntington-Whiteley wears shield-style sunglasses. Image: Instagram/@rosiehuntingtonwhiteley.

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On the local front, we've also seen Zoe Foster Blake and Pip Edwards get around the trend.

Earlier this year, Melbourne fashion tastemaker Rozalia Russian designed a pair in collaboration with Soda Shades, and local sunnies brand Luv Lou recently partnered with artist Ash Holmes on a collection of shield shades in four chic colours.

So safe to say, they're having a moment.

Image: Instagram/@annabelfalco, @rozalia_russian.

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The good news is, this style suits everyone — although it looks bold (and that's the point), the shield is surprisingly wearable. Like the aviator, it works for all face shapes and looks good with any outfit, from activewear to more formal fits.

And while Annabel's exact pair are unfortunately now sold out (that's what happens when you post about the perfect new season accessory), I've tracked down similar styles to get the look — from budget finds to investment options.

Shop shield sunglasses.

& Other Stories Chunky Aviator Sunglasses, $65.

Image: The Iconic.

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Cotton On Ivy Aviator Sunglasses, $20.

Image: Cotton On.

Luv Lou x Ash Holmes The Ash in Dark Chocolate, $190.

Image: Luv Lou.

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Rozalia Russian X Soda Shades - Shade 004, $189.

Rozalia Russian X Soda Shades - Shade 004Image: Soda Shades.

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Quay Chart Topper, $124.

Quay Chart Topper sunglassesImage: Quay.

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Poppy Lissiman Bibi, $260.

Image: Poppy Lissiman.

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Valley Bang, $260.

Image: The Iconic.

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Feature image: Instagram/@chimi.

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