06 Jul 2026
If you’ve been watching the football this summer, you may have noticed something other than spectacular goals and last-minute drama.
Several of the TV pundits seem to have developed a taste for chunky glasses with yellow-tinted lenses.
Former England internationals Ian Wright and Micah Richards are among those who’ve been spotted sporting the look in the studio, prompting plenty of discussion online. Is it simply a style statement? Are yellow lenses making a comeback? Or is this the start of the next eyewear trend?
From us at EYES on St Albans, the answer might just be…
“About time.”
“We’ve been putting colour into people’s eyewear for years,” says Jez Levy. “It’s nice to see the football world catching up.”
People are becoming much more confident about expressing their personality through their eyewear, and sport has always had a habit of influencing fashion.
The chunky frames certainly aren’t new to EYES.
Jez’s own JL SPEX collection, handmade in Italy and named after some of St Albans’ best-loved pubs, was designed to celebrate bold shapes, exceptional craftsmanship and a quietly rebellious attitude. Those thicker acetate frames also happen to be the perfect partner for coloured lenses.
And yellow?
It’s a fascinating choice.
Soft yellow tints can make the world feel brighter, improve contrast in certain conditions and are often chosen by people who simply enjoy the way they look. They’re not designed to turn night into day or magically improve your football skills, but they do offer a distinctive look that has become increasingly popular both on and off the pitch.
With Essilor’s extensive collection of tinted lenses, customers can choose from a wide range of colours to create something that’s completely their own, whether that’s a subtle yellow, a warm amber, classic grey, striking blue or something altogether bolder.
“The right tint can completely change the personality of a frame,” says Jez. “It’s another way of making your glasses feel like they belong to you.”
Could yellow become this summer’s must-have look?
Time will tell.
If football pundits have taught us anything over the years, it’s that fans are never shy about borrowing a bit of style from the studio.
Fortunately, there’s plenty of inspiration closer to home too.
As pre-season gets underway at the mighty Clarence Park, supporters will once again be gathering to cheer on St Albans City FC, catching up with friends and enjoying everything that makes local football special.
For EYES on St Albans, that’s what it really all comes back to.
Eyewear has always been about more than simply seeing clearly.
It’s about confidence.
It’s about individuality.
It’s about community.
Whether you’re watching the World Cup from your sofa, cheering on the Saints from the terraces at Clarence Park or simply enjoying a sunny afternoon in St Albans, perhaps it’s time to be a little braver with your glasses.
After all, football isn’t the only thing that looks better with a bit of colour.
Spex, hugs and rock & roll.
