5 Best Designer Dupe Sunglasses for Under $50

If you’ve been on TikTok for more than five seconds, you’re familiar with the term “dupes,” which stands for duplicates. Designer clothes are out of most people’s price range, so clothing companies like Shein and H&M will release clothes with the same vibes as top designer styles for a fraction of the price.

While the term dupes is common in clothes, there are also dupes of designer shades. And while dupe clothes tend to be much poorer quality than the actual designer clothes, that’s not the case with sunglasses. Dupe sunglasses are made just as well, and sometimes better, than their designer counterparts.

So, let’s dig into why you shouldn’t shop designer sunglasses and the best 5 designer dupe sunglasses on the market for under $50.

Why You Shouldn't Shop Designer Sunglasses

Expensive Designer Shades are Out

While maybe it was cool for older generations to wear expensive shades, Gen Z and millennials know better. Sunglasses are at the end of the day, an accessory, and it’s much better to put your money toward staple wardrobe pieces that will last season after season.

Because let’s be honest: even if you are a tidy person who puts everything back in its place, it’s easy to lose a pair of sunglasses. Maybe you forget to take them off before going on a roller coaster and they fly off, or you leave them by the pool after you jump in at an acquaintance’s beach party.

Sunglasses are much easier to lose, so it’s better to spend less on them so it doesn’t hurt your wallet too much when it happens. 

Supporting Small Businesses Is In

The shocking truth behind designer sunglasses is that there’s a massive eyewear monopoly that controls the prices. Luxottica, an Italian company, owns 80% of the sunglasses market. Because they have such a huge market share, they can control the prices. 

Instead, opt to buy sunglasses from a small business like Warby Parker or WMP Eyewear. Small businesses have generated 12.9 million new jobs in the last 25 years. Plus, when you shop small, you’re keeping the money in your community (or close by). The sales tax generated from small businesses goes to the city and county the shop is located in. 

Dupes of Designer Shades

Your Favorite Cat Eye

Cat eyes gained popularity in the 1960s when Audrey Hepburn wore them in Breakfast at Tiffany’s, and they’ve stayed in style ever since.

Burberry sells a classic pair of cat eyes, with thick acetate frames that come in three colors and feature “Burberry” written in the arms. A great way to flex if you want people to know you dropped $330 on a pair of designer frames.

But if you’re looking for some designer-inspired sunglasses with all the vibes of these Burberry sunglasses, then check out WMP Eyewear’s Sophia. These trendy shades offer the same boxy cat eye shape but with the added option of pink mirror, gradient brown, or black lenses. Plus, these polarized shades are a fraction of the price at only $40.

Ford vs. Ferrari Inspired

If you want to feel just like Matt Damon in Ford vs. Ferrari, then you’ll be tempted to purchase the Entourage of 7 Beacon 10-20 Vintage-Amber Limited Edition frames. While these clear-tinted plastic unisex frames look awesome, there’s nothing in the product listing that specifies UV protection. So for almost $300, you don’t even know if they’re protecting your eyes.

For an almost identical dupe option that offers 100% UVA/UVB protection and polarization, check out Abner. These glasses feature the same green lenses with transparent champagne crystal frames but cost under $40.

Single Bridge Aviator Sunglasses

While classic aviators with a double nose bridge have been out since the 30s, more modern options with a single bridge have also come onto the scene. Persol’s PO3302S polarized sunglasses feature a single nose bridge and the option to add a prescription, which can be helpful for people who wear glasses.

However, Persol’s come in at $395 when they’re full price, while similar single bridge aviators like Emerson cost only $39. Emerson features a slightly squarer frame but still offers polarization and 100% UV protection. And with six different frame colors and lens combinations, there’s an Emerson for everyone.

Semi-Rimless Designer Dupe

Maui Jim sunglasses can be seen on celebrities at the CMAs or wealthy fathers on vacation. Their semi-rimless styles like Kawika feature a thick top half of the frame and wire on the bottom half of the lenses. These frames cost $319 before you add a prescription.

For a similar dupe at a fraction of the cost, check out Jaxon. These semi-rimless sunglasses come in four colors and feature that same cool square lens as the Maui Jim’s, yet won’t break the bank. You can travel without the stress of losing Jaxon, since they only cost $45.

Plus, Jaxon’s also polarized with an anti-glare coating and offers 100% protection from UV rays so you can enjoy all day out on the beach, stress-free.

Square Designer Sunglasses Dupe

ROKA is a small business that makes great sunglasses for the outdoors. If you need a sturdy square pair that’s polarized for bright light conditions, Roka’s Rory 2.0 could work for you if you have $220 just sitting around. 

If you want a dupe pair of sunglasses inspired by Rory 2.0, try WMP Eyewear’s Nick. These casual square shades feature sturdy polycarbonate frames and 100% UVA/UVB protection. With five cool colors at only $39, you could get every pair of Nick for less than one pair of Rokas.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Designer Sunglass Dupe?

When choosing a designer sunglasses dupe, consider the UV protection, frame material, and lens material. Check for a sticker or read the online product description to ensure that the lenses offer 100% UVA/UVB protection or are rated up to 400.

Then, choose frame materials like acetate or polycarbonate for plastic-looking frames, or titanium, stainless steel, or aluminum frames for metal ones. Look for polycarbonate lenses with anti-scratch, anti-glare, and polarization for the best protection.

Can I Expect the Same Level of UV Protection From Designer Sunglass Dupes as the Original Brands?

Yes, you can expect the same level of UV protection for designer sunglasses dupes as the original brands. However, you can’t assume that any pair of sunglasses, designer or not, offers high-quality eye care like UV protection. 

Always check for a sticker or in the product description for any pair of sunglasses to ensure that it offers 100% UVA/UVB protection or is rated to protect up to 400 UV.

Are Designer Sunglass Dupes Made With Similar Materials and Craftsmanship?

Yes, many designer sunglass dupes are made with similar materials and craftsmanship. Stores like WMP Eyewear offer designer dupes at low prices because they have a much smaller markup than big designer brands.

However, if you’re shopping from fast fashion houses like Shein or H&M, those sunglasses may not be as high of quality as designer ones.