Splurge vs Save: The Best Frames at Each Price Point
Just like the right shoes or watch can transform an outfit, the perfect pair of sunglasses can make or break your entire look.
From budget-friendly frames that impress without stress to splurge-worthy sunglasses that shield your eyes with a dose of style, there’s a world of eyewear waiting to be discovered.
We’ve gathered our best picks from under NZ$80 all the way to luxury gems over NZ$300—because no matter your budget, your glasses should always make a statement.
Best under NZ$80
Imagine grabbing a pair of glasses that look good with everything in your closet without costing a fortune. That’s what you get with our SmartBuy Collection.
Available exclusively on our website, this line of eyewear has affordable and stylish sunglasses and prescription eyeglasses that can be the perfect accessory for your casual or formal outfit.
Other brands like Polaroid and Privé Revaux offer amazing frames that won’t break the bank.
Polaroid glasses bring sharp clarity and comfort with their polarised sunglasses while blending functionality with a touch of style.
Privé Revaux is perfect for those who love to keep up with trends. Their frames are designed with a bold attitude, offering a variety of shapes and sizes that suit any face and style preference.
Between NZ$80 and NZ$150
In this price range, you’ll find sunglasses that are not only fashionable but also built with durability in mind.
Messy Weekend adds quirkiness to your wardrobe and makes for a great conversation starter.
Their New Depp sunglasses are like that cool T-shirt that grabs everyone’s attention and gets compliments at casual gatherings.
For sports fans, Nike eyewear brings the same commitment to performance and comfort that you expect from their sneakers.
The Livefree Iconic models are like the reliable sports shoes that you can wear on a run and feel just as good wearing them on a busy day.
Between NZ$150 and NZ$300
As you explore the mid-range of eyewear, you’ll find brands that bring style, quality and versatility.
If you’re looking for a pair of glasses that will never go out of style, Ray-Ban is the way to go. Their iconic Clubmaster model is like that classic leather jacket that goes with everything and is always cool.
For those who lean more on the bold side, the Carrera 1069 2M2/08 comes with a comfortable and dynamic frame while keeping your eyes safe from the bright sun.
They make you stand out in the crowd, ideal for days when you want to be noticed.
And for the days when you don’t want the attention, the Kate Spade GeralynS is a classic blend of elegance and femininity.
These frames complement any look without overpowering it and they are ideal for important meetings and coffee dates with your friends.
Over NZ$300
When you step into the pricier eyewear collections, you’re not just purchasing glasses; you’re getting your hands on luxurious fashion pieces.
Iconic brands like Bottega Veneta and Miu Miu make a lasting impression wherever you go.
The Bottega Veneta BV118 and BV1012S models exude elegance and exclusivity with their mirrored lenses and gold metal frames.
Similarly, Miu Miu offers meticulously crafted, colourful designs that are both trendy and timeless.
Chloé and Persol also bring their signature styles to the forefront, offering sunglasses that not only protect your eyes but also serve as a centrepiece of your fashion statement.
These glasses are bold and stand out with unique shapes and luxurious materials, ideal for those who view fashion as an art form.
Final verdict: luxury vs budget?
Choosing between luxury and budget frames often comes down to personal preference and lifestyle needs.
While luxury eyewear offers exclusivity and premium designs, budget-friendly options can also provide style and functionality without compromising on taste.
If you’re new to the eyewear game, you can start with something more affordable to see what suits your face.
You can use our Virtual Try-On tool to try on thousands of frames to see what looks great on you without guessing.
Whether you decide to splurge or save, you’ll find a glasses frame for every budget that matches your personality and needs.