The Venice Film Festival has always been about far more than cinema. Between photocalls, lagoon arrivals and gala evenings, the Mostra remains one of the most anticipated style moments of the season, one where sunglasses become the detail that tells the whole story.
This year's guests proved once again that the right pair of sunglasses can elevate any outfit. From understated minimalism to bolder, more sculptural shapes, Venice 2026 showcased the eyewear trends set to define the season, through a curated selection of celebrities, designers and timeless styles.
Retro elegance on the red carpet
Among the most refined looks spotted at the lagoon arrivals were the Chloé CH0286S 002, worn by Amal Clooney. A feminine, retro-inspired frame that pairs soft lines with balanced proportions, perfect for an entrance that leaves no room for error. The result is a look that's understated yet unforgettable, striking a fine balance between romance and precision.
Bottega Veneta's minimal signature
Minimalism continues to be one of the Festival's most beloved signatures. Claire Foy proved it with not one but two Bottega Veneta looks: the BV1513S 001 for her lagoon arrival and the BV1492S 001 on the red carpet. Both models lean into clean lines and an essential aesthetic, confirming the house as a reference point for contemporary, timeless luxury.
Choosing two different frames for two distinct moments of the day shows how well the same brand can move between registers, from easy daytime style to formal evening wear.
Sporty and sophisticated
Sport-inspired frames continue to win over the men's red carpet. Jack O'Connell chose the Prada Linea Rossa PSB08S 1AB09U, a model that blends performance and design in a sharp, technical silhouette. The result is a versatile accessory, one that brings a contemporary edge even to more formal looks.
Colour and personality
No festival edit would be complete without a statement piece: J Balvin stepped out in the Miu Miu MU A56S 5AK90L, a frame that plays with colour and shape for maximum visual impact. A choice that confirms how sunglasses can become a true style statement, well beyond their protective function.
The icon that never fades
Some models remain a constant, season after season. Maggie Gyllenhaal went for a true classic, the Ray-Ban Wayfarer, proving once again that the brand's most iconic silhouette remains synonymous with an essential, instantly recognisable style, from the red carpet to everyday life.
Contemporary romanticism
Closing the edit is Emilia Schüle, in the Miu Miu MU B14SU 26N80Q, seen here in a different colourway from the one currently available online. The model captures the house's distinctive language, balancing retro romanticism with contemporary experimentation, in a shape that flatters the face without ever feeling excessive.
From Chloé's retro lines to Bottega Veneta's minimalism, by way of sporty frames, bold colour statements and timeless classics, Venice 2026 confirmed once again that a great pair of sunglasses is an essential piece of style, on the red carpet and beyond.
