Prada sunglasses design codes
Founded in Milan in 1913, Prada is known for an intellectual, slightly unexpected approach to luxury, and its eyewear follows the same line. Rather than heavy ornament, the frames rely on shape and material to make their point.
- The triangle logo: the enamelled inverted triangle, the same emblem found on the house's nylon and leather Prada bags, often sits on the temples as the only branding.
- Sculpted acetate: thick, polished frames in black, tortoiseshell and clear or tonal colours, frequently with bevelled edges that catch the light.
- Geometric shapes: strong rectangles, softened squares, cat-eyes and oversized silhouettes are recurring house shapes.
- Linea Rossa: the sport-led line, recognisable by its red stripe detail, with lighter wraparound and shield frames suited to active days.
How to choose Prada shades for someone else
Start with how the recipient already dresses. Someone with a minimal, tailored wardrobe tends to suit a black rectangular or square acetate frame; a person who enjoys a statement will appreciate an oversized or cat-eye shape; for someone who cycles, golfs or spends weekends outdoors, a Linea Rossa frame makes more sense.
Face shape is a useful rule of thumb: angular frames balance rounder faces, while softer shapes suit stronger jawlines. If you are unsure, look at the sunglasses they wear now and stay close to that shape.
Reading frame size: the three numbers printed inside the temple are lens width, bridge width and temple length, in millimetres. Matching these to a pair they already wear comfortably is the most reliable way to get the fit right. Compare the approach of other houses in our wider sunglasses guide, or see the more graphic frames on our LOEWE sunglasses page.
Price depends mainly on materials, lens technology and how sculptural the frame is; as a broad guide, plan for a budget in the several-thousand-rand range.
Care, and why they make a considered gift
Sunglasses are one of the few luxury pieces used almost daily in South Africa, which is what makes them a good gift: practical in a summer Christmas or a coastal holiday, and personal without needing a clothing size.
To keep them in good condition:
- Clean lenses with a microfibre cloth and lens spray, never a shirt hem or paper towel.
- Store them in their case, lenses facing up when set down.
- Do not leave them on a car dashboard, where heat can warp acetate.
- Open and close them with both hands to protect the hinges.
If you have a particular shape or colour in mind, tell us what you are looking for and we will come back with options.