Spring’s hottest shape in sunglasses is the circle. Reminiscent of John Lennon’s signature specs, round frames have been popping up on more than a few celebrities over the last year, but this season round will be the frame du jour.

In February, Ray-Ban launched the exact style Lennon used to wear ($145). These are obviously the most authentic in style and shape and would work for anyone who consistently rocks a classic Ray-Ban aviator but wants to switch things up for spring. Chanel is also making a gold metal pair ($290), but they’re not so perfectly round. They’re a cross between an aviator and a round shape, with gorgeous amber-colored lenses that will look so chic through summer. And if less flashy is more your speed, Persol has a matte silver pair with tortoise arms ($205) that are a little more on the masculine side, but would work for a woman as well.

For a not-so-literal interpretation of the trend, I love the oversized black acetate round frames from Proenza Schouler ($310), and so do a slew of young celebs, especially the pint-sized Mary-Kate Olsen, who almost always wears a pair of round frames to suit her haute hippie look. Persol also has a cute pair in a tortoise frame ($235) that are a little more classic and preppy than the Proenza Schouler version, and the speckled color adds an interesting detail to any look.

Because Lady Gaga has also been a huge fan of round sunglasses, there are sure to be more exaggerated styles out there as we roll into summer.

For something a tiny bit over the top but still wearable, zebra-striped round glasses from Ralph Lauren Collection ($250) are sure to turn a few heads.

Round sunglasses, more than any other shape of shades, have an immediate impact on your look and can take a totally simple outfit into the 1960s or Ozzy Osbourne territory. So tread lightly. A quirky tortoiseshell pair with rounded lenses or something in an oversized acetate can look fresh and on trend, while metal frames with colored lenses (like Olsen wears in one of her more literal looks) can seem more like the groupie who got left behind.

By Melissa Magsaysay

(Los Angeles Times)

(McClatchy-Tribune Information Services)