Fortunately, there is a way for you to incorporate steampunk fashion into your daily wear. And, no–don’t worry. You will still completely look as if you fit in the modern world while maintaining the air of adventure and mystery with you. How so? By wearing steampunk glasses.
That’s correct. There are actually what you call steampunk sunglasses. They are your regular sunglasses, except this pair of accessories still has a hint of the bygone days with them without going over the top.
In this post, I’m going to cover what to look for in steampunk sunglasses, where to find them, and style inspirations from the awesome folks on how to use the eyewear. And we will also list a collection of the best steampunk sunglasses that we definitely recommend. Here it is!
What To Look for in Steampunk Glasses
Steampunk sunglasses differs from the steampunk goggles for one major reason: goggles are mostly used for costume, and rarely are they worn to help people see better. Therefore, choosing a pair of steampunk sunglasses can be trickier than picking a pair of goggles from a novelty store. There are plenty of considerations to think about, not just the style. When choosing a pair of sunglasses, you will have to choose a pair that is right for you.
Since there is a good chance you will be wearing your steampunk glasses more frequently than a pair of goggles, there are a few things you should consider besides the design, particularly the fit and prescription. To make things easier, we made a short checklist of what to look for when buying steampunk sunglasses or glasses:
Design
For sunglasses and sunglass to fit the steampunk category, they must of course meet the steampunk look. When people talk about steampunk, they often associate it with vintage, retro, or anachronistic design. Thus, to achieve the steampunk look, getting vintage-looking glasses is recommended.
Round-rimmed glasses or sunglasses with curved brow bar is the most common design for steampunk sunglasses, which actually became popular in the early to middle 20th century instead of the Victorian Era. Although there were a variety of styles that became popular during this time period, round-rimmed glasses seemed to be the most trendy.
Material
If you plan to use your steampunk sunglasses for daily wear, you should consider buying one made from a durable material, whether made from plastic or metal. Carefully read the description and reviews to see if it can cause allergic reactions.
Colors
Colors do actually go a long way. The right color of the lens or frame can make you stand out. Choose a fashionable color that suits your taste. Remember that since you’re aiming for a steampunk look, it might be best to get one with shades of copper, silver, or black. Steampunk style is also known for its charming eccentricity, so a little splash of color wouldn’t hurt.
Size
If possible, make sure that the glasses fit you: meaning, it’s not too big, it’s not too small. Again, a careful survey of the sizes in the item description could help you figure it out if the glasses fit you.
Reading customer reviews could also help you know how most people find the glasses. If it’s too small for many people and a lot of them complained that it seemed to be made for children, then it might be true.
Prescription
If you’re using prescription glasses, it might be best to check with your eye doctor first before buying them, especially if you are planning to use them frequently. Again, carefully check the item description and even the reviews, especially if the seller claims it’s a prescription glasses.
Price
More expensive glasses tend to have better quality, but it’s not always the case. Depending on your usage and budget, you don’t need to buy hundreds of dollars worth of glasses when good ones with a lower price point will do.
Features
Find out what features the sunglasses or glasses have. If possible, get one with the polarized lens to reduce eyestrain and glare.
Style
Of course, at the end of the day, your personal taste will determine which steampunk glasses you would like to get for yourself. Fortunately, there are plenty of glasses available online with various designs, so you can be stylish while staying unique.
Steampunk Glasses Examples
We scoured Instagram to find folks who pulled off the steampunk look with the use of glasses or sunglasses. Here are some of the best ones:
Steampunk Sunglasses by scarletcatcheen
Instagram user @scarletcatcheen added sunglasses to her steampunk-inspired outfit instead of goggles.
Steampunk Sunglasses by janehaasphotography
In this photoshoot, Instagram user @janehaasphotography borrowed elements from steampunk, gothic, and modern fashion to create this stylish look.
Steampunk Sunglasses by wanderings_in_wonderland
Instagram user @wanderings_in_wonderland rocked the steampunk look on this one with the blue-colored sunglasses.
Best Steampunk Glasses
Gradient Tinted Lenses Steampunk Sunglasses
One look at these tinted lenses would certainly make anyone find out more about it. It’s simple yet classy and elegant.
Polarized Steampunk Sunglasses With UVA and UVB
Made from metal alloy and featuring polarized lenses, this is one steampunk sunglass that you can wear anywhere comfortably, even outdoors. Moreover, it also looks great with its retro design, which is available in many colors.
Round Polarized Steampunk Resin Glasses
These glasses may remind you more of cyberpunk, but if you are going for a more unique look, then you should definitely consider getting one. It has a wide variety of designs to choose from as well, ranging from the classic to the more futuristic.
Polarized Metal Steampunk Sunglasses
This particular pair of sunglasses has many designs and colors to choose from. If you need a variety of steampunk glasses, we would recommend you checking this one out.
Stylish Retro Steampunk Sunglasses Round Frame
These retro sunglasses are available in many different styles and colors, this fantastic eyewear lets you show your love for steampunk and will surely get you a compliment or two.
Flip-Up Steampunk Sunglasses
Want to add more flair to your steampunk-inspired look? These flip-up retro steampunk sunglasses will certainly do the job. Made from metal, you are sure that it won’t break instantly with the constant closing and opening of the lid.
Steampunk Glasses With Side Shield
Glasses with side shields may be a bit closer to the cinder goggles of the Victorian Era, because this feature is built also to protect the sides of the eyes and not just the front. If that’s the style you are going for, you should check out this one.
Round Elegant Steampunk Glasses
For a more elegant look, take a look at this beautiful pair of glasses. It comes in different designs and lens colors with an ornate frame.
Classy Steampunk Sunglasses
Nothing beats classic style. If you are looking for a good old sunglasses to use to complete your steampunk outfit, add this elegant pair to your list.