As spring finally tiptoes in, we are fully embracing the extra hours of daylight, and moodboarding the spring outfits we’re ready to take out for a spin in the sunshine. And nothing brings a warm-weather energy to an outfit like a new pair of great sunglasses. It’s the one accessory that can instantly update literally any look.
Sure, sunglasses are seasonless, but there’s something about picking up a new pair ahead of the summer that just hits different. This season, we’re zeroing in on Canadian brands offering excellent sunnies, because shopping local is very much top of mind, and we have amazing Canadian talent — including spectacular eyewear brands — right here.
From modern twists on classic styles to bold, trendy frames, we’ve found your next pair of sunglasses from local brands.
Kits
Based in Vancouver, Kits offers a rich selection of sunnies for the whole family — yes, even the kids. Alongside international designer labels, their in-house line delivers both trend-forward and timeless styles. Best part? Your wallet won’t even flinch.
Marsquest
Looking for eyewear that can keep up with your adventurous lifestyle? Try Marsquest. Founded in Toronto, the brand delivers eyewear made for motion, whether you’re hitting the slopes, training for a marathon or just walking the dog. From sporty shades to everyday styles in bold neon colours, these frames are built for wherever life takes you.
Bonlook
Back in 2011, Montreal’s Sophie Boulanger and her brother Louis-Félix hoped to revolutionize the way people shop for eyewear, changing it up as if it was any accessory in your wardrobe. Enter Bonlook. Over the years, the brand has made the process of shopping for glasses more streamlined and affordable, without compromising style (case in point: These pearly cat-eye sunnies from its latest Mediterranean-inspired collection). And every style is available with or without prescription lenses, including progressive, degressive and anti-fatigue.
Maguire
When editor-fave Montreal footwear brand Maguire expanded into sunglasses a few summers ago, their first pair was just as covetable as their beautifully-designed heels, sandals and sneakers. Since then, they’ve launched various frames in small batches. Our latest love is the Yoshi style, which is available in four colours and monochromatic tinted lenses. Plus, they’re all made out of recycled plastic.
Jenny Bird
Ever since beloved Toronto jewelry designer Jenny Bird stepped into eyewear, we have been hooked. Made with sustainable materials like biodegradable acetate and recycled steel, these sunglasses are designed to complement your outfit — just like your favourite hoops and dainty ring stacks do. Available in four cool silhouettes, each an unexpected twist on classics like the cat eye or the aviator, each style is available in a variety of fashionable colours and classic black.
Dynamite
This Montreal-based fashion retailer always has its finger on the pulse when it comes to designing on-trend pieces, and you might as well pick up a pair of sunnies to go with your look. Its in-house frames feature silhouettes all the It girls are wearing, from slim oval-shaped sunglasses to oversized retro shades.
Fellow Earthlings
If you’re looking to stand out with a one-of-a-kind design, Fellow Earthlings is one to keep an eye on. Handmade on Prince Edward Island by husband-and-wife duo Christopher and Sydney Seggie, Fellow Earthlings has been making waves in the fashion industry by crafting eyewear on an intimate scale using recycled acetate. The brand even runs an in-house recycling program to transform its own manufacturing waste into new frames.
Bôhten
Founded by brothers Nana Boateng Osei and Nana Kwadwo Osei, Bôhten eyewear is all about blending the founders’ African culture with contemporary design principles to create frames that are both cutting-edge and deeply rooted. Fun fact: The Canadian eyewear brand collaborated with Marvel Studios to co-design a “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever”-inspired capsule collection in 2022. Made by world-class engineers and artisans, each pair makes a statement.
Joe Fresh
If you’re after trendy sunglasses that won’t break the bank, head to Joe Fresh for a seasonal lineup of on-trend styles and fresh takes on classic silhouettes. This oval wire-framed silhouette calls to mind the style that off-duty models like Kendall Jenner and Hailey Bieber gravitate toward. They offer 100% UV protection and a chic gradient lens, all for under $20.
Jimmy Mac
Founded in Regina by optician Jeff McNamara, Jimmy Mac Eyewear started with just eight frames. Its gender-free designs now span a wide range of shapes, sizes and silhouettes, so you’re bound to find a style that suits. Plus, with its collection of UV-protected shades, you have the option to add your prescription, so you don’t have to sacrifice style for being able to see.
Kraywoods
Designed and assembled in Canada, Kraywoods’ eyewear is inspired by Canada’s beautiful natural landscape: each pair is made with premium materials and features sustainably-sourced natural wood in some way. Plus, with every purchase, a tree is planted in your name and the brand will send you a signed certificate to mark the moment.
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