Sunglasses have become an essential style element over the years, ever since actors such as James Dean made them enduringly popular, and can be used to complement any number of looks. Depending on where you happen to be in the world, the sunshine could well be drawing in already, or if you’re preparing for a holiday or a move abroad, why not invest in a new pair of frames?

Dolce & Gabbana
DG 4127 (£192)

Versace
VE 4221 (£164)

Versace
VE 2124 (£156)

Versace
VE 2123B (£156)

Versace
VE 4222 (£182)

Ralph Lauren
RL 8077W (£118)

Ralph Lauren
RL 8084 (£118)

Polo Ralph Lauren
PH 3063 (£116)

Versace
VE 4223 (£156)

Dolce & Gabbana
DG 4129 (£225)

Dolce & Gabbana
DG 2102 (£190)

Where to wear them this summer

Whitehaven, Australia (top)
Australia is a country not exactly lacking in pristine beaches, but Whitehaven in Queensland is probably the pick of the bunch. Azure waters glisten alongside famously pristine white sands, as distant islands float on the horizon. Not an ideal location for surfers – the waves aren’t generally too impressive – but Whitehaven is a rarity among beaches: clean, hot and not overly busy.

Palawan, the Philippines
The islands making up Palawan in the Pacific are surprisingly lacking (at least by comparison to other similar locations) in tourist activity, and between them offer enough sun-kissed beaches to last a lifetime. With well over 1,500 islands, beach seekers are spoilt for choice. The joy lies in finding your own unoccupied spot, although Honda Bay is a perfectly good setting for those who don’t mind more tourist activity.

Tayrona, Colombia
Unorthodox perhaps in terms of beach recommendations, Tayrona beach actually sits inside the protected Tayrona National Park on the northern tip of Colombia’s Caribbean region. As the area is protected, you won’t find resorts or tourists galore, but what you will find is staggering natural beauty, made all the more pleasant by its tropical remoteness.