Summer dresses in crush-worthy prints, sandals fit for a goddess, and the crown jewel in any summer wardrobe: a pair of statement sunglasses. Luckily, Toulouse brand Anne et Valentin–masters of the whimsical with theatrical lines and flamboyant shades–has launched brand new colours and designs for SS22. So, whether you’re beach bound or daydreaming of picnics and riverside spritzes, Taank stylist Leanne has you covered with her pick of the hottest collection in town.

MODEL: SCARLETT

COLOUR: 21D02

New colour alert! We’re dying over this lush petrol blue offset by contrasting cream that draws the eyes down to pretty half-moon details on the tips of the arms. This gorgeous cool shade looks stunning against warmer summer skin tones. This super feminine 50’s throwback is very much on-trend and puts us in mind of the golden age of cruising and far-flung escapades. The classic upswept concept delivers plenty of ‘va-va-voom’ and gives your features a little lift (and who doesn’t want that?). Grab your headscarf, and let’s go!

MODEL: SCHIAMMA

COLOUR: 21D01

Brimming with drama and presence, these panto frames blend structure with full-bodied voluptuousness. The top-heavy brow flows into slender curves punctuated by angles on the bridge and arms while retaining a pleasing ‘weight’. And that colour! Another new release for the summer, translucent khaki (everywhere this season), is a beautiful neutral on most skin shades and is especially good at neutralising red tones. Again, the elegant almond shape lifts the face, but thanks to the keyhole bridge, it sits lower on the face than Scarlett, making it perfect for people with more angular jawlines.  

MODEL: SHERYL 

COLOUR: 21D04

If there’s another colour that screams summer louder than this incredible candy floss-meets-watermelon hue, we’ve yet to find it. Making its debut in SS22, this pink lemonade shade with a retro-style hexagonal shape reminds us of a 1950s funfair complete with boiled sweets and stolen kisses on the big wheel. They look dreamy on fair skin tones, and the design’s strong horizontal lines add a flattering lift to faces with oval and round jawlines. Best of all, these frames transcend the generation gap to look incredible on people of all ages.  

MODEL: SILENT

COLOUR: 21D18

These vintage-style rounds are special. Not only do they sport a fresh new raspberry hue from the Anne et Valentin atelier but also a brand new shape. And how edible is that hot pink? We’re thinking macarons, blackcurrant ice cream, and pomegranate rose gin fizz. Add the geometric designs on the arms, which taper to gorgeous metal detailing, and these frames have all the hallmarks of a classic. This pink suits most skin tones while the curves offset square jawlines beautifully. Eternally cool, even with all eyes on them, they give nothing away. 

MODEL: STARR

COLOUR: 9D11

If you love a bold shape minus the ‘volume’, these tortoiseshell beauties may be the ones for you. Cut a mysterious figure with a classic look with neutral colouring and bold mottling that is anything but shy and retiring. One of the great things about these (and there are many) is that they go with absolutely anything and can easily be dressed up and down. The amber hues would look best on olive skin tones, while the relaxed shape suits most faces, particularly those with sharp and square jawlines.

MODEL: STOIK

COLOUR: 20D08

Leanne says, “I love these frames, and their 60s feel!” And we all agree. The contrast between the glossy black front and the statement sides is pure art. The print is reminiscent of a giraffe. A black and white giraffe. Does that work? Well, you know what we mean. And this summer, prints are hot to trot, so this is a great way to get on board with a trend without going over the top. If you’re petite, this is the perfect frame for you. Compact with just the right amount of quirky, these sleek rounds are subtle, strong, and incredibly versatile.  

Ready to launch your love affair with big, bold frames but not sure where to start? We’ve got you covered in our guide to statement sunglasses for newbies to connoisseurs.