With the heat of the summer months looming, designers turn up the volume with statement-making eyewear. From quirky cat-eyes to retro rounds, we had our Fashion Editorial interns weigh in with their picks for the season's hottest high-voltage shades.

“Sunglasses have become my form of armour," says Lori Sherman who “wouldn't battle the city streets with anyone other than Karen Walker”. And like any shield, it's as much about spectacle as it is about serviceability. Big and bold accessories "add an edge to my sometimes conservative wardrobe," not surprising given Sherman's over-the-top selection from Walker. Michelle Alarie was similarly inspired by Alexander Wang's future-tech spin on the cat-eye lens, a great alternative to an understated go-to. Amanda Shirreffs, on the other hand, opted for a more whimsical approach with a haute hippy look from Erdem for Cutler & Gross: “the twist on the classic John Lennon frame paired with Erdem's customized graphic prints are feminine, chic and fabulously quirky”.

“Classic with a twist" is fast becoming the eyewear mantra for summer. Both Ryan Cheung and Nancy Phatsaphaphone went with the tried and true wayfarer frame, but upped the ante with micro-floral and NYC motifs, respectively. Jennifer Martinez was drawn to Tom Ford's aviator incarnation, with a double cross-bridge detail that brings ladylike charm to an oft-masculine frame. Whether for low-key weekends at the cottage or afternoon jaunts about town, statement sunglasses soak up the spotlight this summer. For more inspiring ideas, look for sunglass trends in the upcoming June issue of FLARE.