Lately, I’ve found myself scrolling endlessly through high-fashion websites, admiring designer accessories with jaw-dropping price tags. This obsession isn’t new—when I was a kid, I watched runway shows on the Style Network while my friends were watching cartoons. I’ve always loved bold, outrageous fashion, even if it’s not always practical for everyday wear.
But who says we can’t add a touch of designer glam to our wardrobes? Accessories are the perfect way to experiment!
So today, let’s recreate luxury-inspired sunglasses—no designer budget needed. Using old jewelry, forgotten accessories, and a little creativity, we’ll transform basic sunglasses into statement-making pieces inspired by Dolce & Gabbana, Chanel, and Miu Miu.
And the best part? You probably already have everything you need!
Dolce & Gabbana-Inspired Chain Sunglasses
Dolce & Gabbana is known for ornate, baroque-inspired designs, and their gold chain sunglasses are no exception. But at $433 a pair, they’re more of a fantasy than a reality. Luckily, we can DIY our own version using an old chain bracelet and a pair of sunglasses!
What You’ll Need
✔️ Old Sunglasses (preferably in beige or gold tones)
✔️ An Old Chain Bracelet
✔️ Jewelry Pliers
✔️ Jewelry & Metal Adhesive
How to Make It
1️⃣ Disassemble the Bracelet – Use jewelry pliers to remove the clasp and separate the chain into individual links.
2️⃣ Measure & Trim – Lay the chain across the top edge of your sunglasses and trim it to the perfect length.
3️⃣ Smooth the Edges – If the chain has sharp edges, use pliers to flatten and smooth them.
4️⃣ Glue It in Place – Apply a thin layer of metal adhesive along the top of your sunglasses. Let it sit for 5 minutes until slightly tacky.
5️⃣ Attach the Chain – Carefully press the chain onto the adhesive and hold it in place. Let dry for several hours.
✨ And just like that—you’ve got designer-inspired sunglasses for a fraction of the cost!
Chanel-Inspired Pearl & Leather Sunglasses
There’s something timeless and effortlessly chic about Chanel’s pearl-adorned accessories. These round pearl-trimmed sunglasses have a vintage 1960s vibe that’s perfect for anyone who loves classic, statement fashion.
What You’ll Need
✔️ Round Sunglasses
✔️ Pearl Beads
✔️ Faux Leather Strip (¼-inch wide)
✔️ 18-Gauge Jewelry Wire
✔️ Jewelry Adhesive
✔️ Jewelry Pliers
How to Make It
1️⃣ Create a Wire Base – Cut a length of jewelry wire and bend a small loop at one end using pliers.
2️⃣ Thread the Beads & Leather –
-
Punch a hole through the faux leather strip and thread it onto the wire.
-
Add a pearl bead, then wrap the leather strip around it, puncturing another hole at the top.
-
Continue this pattern until you have enough pearls to circle the lens of your sunglasses.
3️⃣ Adjust the Shape – Carefully bend the wire into a circle, matching the shape of your lenses.
4️⃣ Secure the Ends – Thread the wire through the starting loop and twist it tightly to hold everything in place.
5️⃣ Attach to Sunglasses – Use jewelry adhesive to glue the pearl-and-leather frame around the rim of your sunglasses.
6️⃣ Let It Dry – Allow several hours for the adhesive to fully set before wearing.
✨ The result? A stunning, Chanel-inspired pair of sunglasses that looks effortlessly elegant!
Miu Miu-Inspired Rhinestone Cat-Eye Sunglasses
Miu Miu is all about bold, glamorous, and ultra-feminine designs. Their rhinestone-adorned sunglasses are perfect for making a statement—but instead of splurging, let’s recreate the look using old earrings!
What You’ll Need
✔️ Black Cat-Eye Sunglasses
✔️ An Old Pair of Rhinestone Earrings
✔️ Jewelry Pliers
✔️ Jewelry Adhesive
✔️ A Soft Dish Towel (for cushioning)
How to Make It
1️⃣ Remove Earring Hooks – Use pliers to detach the earring posts, so you’re left with just the decorative rhinestone sections.
2️⃣ Reshape the Earrings –
-
Place the earrings on a soft dish towel to protect the rhinestones.
-
Carefully bend the metal using pliers to match the curve of your sunglasses.
3️⃣ Glue the Rhinestones – Apply a thin layer of adhesive along the rim of your sunglasses. Press the reshaped earrings into place.
4️⃣ Secure & Let Dry – Hold for a few minutes, then let dry completely before wearing.
✨ Now you’ve got a pair of ultra-glam sunglasses fit for a fashion runway!
Final Thoughts: Reinvent Your Accessories!
Who says you need to spend a fortune on high fashion? Sometimes, the most stylish pieces come from reimagining what you already own.
Whether you love gold chains, pearls, or rhinestones, these DIYs let you experiment with luxury trends without the high price tag. Plus, it’s a fun way to repurpose old jewelry and create something unique to your personal style.
💬 Which DIY sunglasses are your favorite? Let me know in the comments! And if you try this project, be sure to share your creations—I’d love to see them!
Happy crafting! 🕶✨
