What are Havana-style glasses?
Closely mimicking the tortoiseshell pattern, Havana-style frames are a lighter take on the darker tortoise colours. With its light tan brown, orange and golden tones, the Havana-style brightens the complexion and brings warmth to the face. Coming in a range of styles from a classic round shape to oversized frames, Havana-coloured specs are the ones to have.
What is the difference between the Havana-style and tortoiseshell?
Havana-style frames have long been a popular choice amongst glasses wearers, and it doesn’t seem like they’ll be going out of fashion any time soon. Adapted in the twentieth century from the tortoiseshell design, the Havana colours tend to be brighter, rarely focusing on black tones as their main feature. The style remains a sunny contemporary alternative to the tortoiseshell aesthetic and continues to be a well-loved glasses style for all.
Here’s a rundown of some of our favourite Havana-style frames, with tips on how to style them for both everyday wear and special occasions - are you ready to get the look?
Oversized, square frames
While glasses might only be a small accessory, these Aurora frames will make a big statement. The deep square frames and strong browline mean the silhouette is suited to most face shapes. In true Havana-style, the glasses are completed in glossy acetate, with signature orange tones running through them. Pair these glasses with a tan blazer and jeans for the ultimate business-casual style.
Honey-coloured frames
For statement frames with softer edges, go for these Specsavers Salama silhouettes. Their golden honey colour lightens up the traditional Havana-style even more, complementing all complexions and brightening up your day - making them the perfect accessory for a barbecue with friends or family this social season (even when the weather is gloomy). If you’ve got a round, heart-shaped, or oval face, these frames will suit you best.
Looking forward to your next social event of the season but struggling with what sunglasses to pair with your new outfit? Read our style guide here.
Sleek, rectangular designs
These gorgeous Karen Millen glasses definitely bring the glitz and glam. The rectangular frames are coupled with golden honeycomb detailing along the sides to create a classic and refined aesthetic. Ideal to be paired with a cocktail dress and gold accessories to create an all-around elegant outfit.
If the gold touches aren’t really for you, then go for these Specsavers Kamaria frames — since they’re more simple and understated, they make the perfect everyday staple. Still embodying the Havana-style design, the strong rectangular shape of the Kamaria glasses will best suit those with square, triangle or rectangle face shapes. Perfect for a day-to-night look, where you can wear them to the office and to after-work drinks.
Struggling to find the perfect rectangle specs for you? Check out our style run-down of rectangle glasses for more inspiration on these angular frames.
Round and retro glasses
If you’re looking for more of a vintage aesthetic, then these Levi’s 06 glasses are the ones to get. Paired with a vintage sweater, denim jacket and oversized jeans, these Havana-style specs will complete the retro look. If you want to browse some more designer frames, check out the favourites from the new Levi’s edit.
Looking for a more subtle touch of the Havana-style? Go for these Specsavers India glasses. Thin, wire specs are all the rage right now, and the frames’ pale gold rims compliment the golden tones of the Havana-style well. They’re minimalistic and have a subtle homage to the retro, round design — the everyday classics that everyone needs.
If you’re a fan of this 90s style, then visit our blog for more inspiration on throwback frames.
If you’re still not sure what design of glasses to go for, you can use our guides on advice on choosing glasses specifically for your hair colour and face shape. Or fancy seeing what one of these Havana-style frames look like on you? Try our virtual try-on tool to see which style you like best.
Love the Havana-style but are looking for a new pair of sunglasses for the pockets of sunshine we’re getting this summer? Well, why not consider tinting your lenses? Check out our sun tints and UV options here to turn your everyday glasses into a staple pair of sunnies.
For more information on the latest trends and style inspiration, check out our #LoveGlasses blog.
