Meet Nonna Donata, 79 years young and a fearless fashion icon who proves age is no barrier to bold style. Her obsession? Eccentric, Made in Italy eyewear that turns heads and rewrites every rule of aging gracefully. From oversized frames to jewel-toned lenses, Donata’s eyewear collection is as fierce as her personality. In this video, get inspired by her top style tips for owning your look, embracing your quirks, and rocking statement glasses with unapologetic flair.
Nonna Donata’s Eyewear Style Tips – Bold Made-in-Italy Fashion at 79
At 79 years old, Nonna Donata doesn’t just wear glasses—she makes them part of her identity. Her passion for eccentric, Made-in-Italy eyewear is a masterclass in style, confidence, and not giving a damn about age restrictions. In a world where trends come and go, Nonna Donata has stayed true to what works: bold frames, unapologetic flair, and the kind of attitude you can’t manufacture.
These eyewear style tips are not about blending in—they’re about standing out, no matter how old you are. So if you’ve ever wondered how to rock a pair of glasses like a true Italian nonna with a flair for fashion, take a page out of Donata’s book. She’s living proof that fabulous never fades.
1. Let Your Glasses Do the Talking
Before you open your mouth, your glasses should speak volumes. Nonna Donata believes that eyewear isn’t just an accessory—it’s a statement of identity. Whether she’s walking to the market or sitting front row at a family dinner, her glasses enter the room before she does.
She chooses oversized frames, unusual shapes, and textured finishes that start conversations without saying a word. Her motto? If you’re not catching stares, change your frames.
2. Made in Italy or Nothing at All
Every pair of glasses in Nonna Donata’s collection is proudly Made in Italy. Why? Because Italian eyewear isn’t just about fashion—it’s about heritage, craftsmanship, and soul. Brands from the Veneto and Belluno regions have been handcrafting eyewear for generations, and she refuses to compromise on quality.
From acetate to hand-polished metals, the materials matter. For Nonna, if it doesn’t carry the signature finesse of Italian artistry, it doesn’t touch her face.
3. Oversized = Overstated, In The Best Way
Donata swears by oversized frames. They’re theatrical, dramatic, and bold—just like her. Big glasses frame her expressions, elevate her cheekbones, and give her an air of mystery that only age and elegance can deliver.
She often pairs her frames with red lipstick and a silk scarf tied tightly around her head. The look is cinematic, like she’s walked straight out of a Fellini film.
Oversized doesn’t mean clumsy. Nonna knows how to balance proportions with her petite frame. It’s all about confidence, posture, and owning the look.
4. Match Your Mood, Not Your Outfit
Forget color-coordinating your glasses to your dress. Donata styles her glasses according to how she feels that day.
Feeling spicy? She grabs her leopard-print cat-eyes. Feeling wise and whimsical? Translucent lavender frames. Melancholic on a rainy Tuscan day? Matte black squares with gold detailing.
For her, glasses are emotional extensions. Every day is a performance, and her eyewear is the costume.
5. Vintage is Visionary
Nonna Donata doesn’t chase trends—she digs through vintage markets, flea stores, and old optician shops in Florence. She believes some of the best frames were made 30 or 40 years ago when design took risks and quality was king.
Her oldest pair? A 1960s round frame in tortoiseshell with gold arms. Still flawless. Still fierce. Still Made in Italy.
Don’t be afraid of vintage. A little repair here and there, and you’ve got something nobody else in the world owns.
6. Eyewear Is a Crown for the Eyes
To Donata, glasses aren’t functional—they’re regal. She calls them “corone per gli occhi”—crowns for the eyes. Whether it’s gem-studded corners, gold-plated arms, or hand-painted details, she treats eyewear like royalty.
She styles them with chunky jewelry, brooches, or earrings that match the mood of the glasses. Her fashion rule? If you’re going to frame your face, make it majestic.
7. Don’t Hide Behind the Frames—Shine Through Them
A lot of people think big glasses hide your face. Donata thinks they frame it better. Her tip is to always keep your skin glowing and your brows brushed. A bold frame draws attention to the eyes, so she uses minimal makeup—just a strong brow pencil, some blush, and lipstick.
She’s also big on eye contact. Even behind tinted lenses, she meets your gaze with purpose. The secret isn’t in the lenses—it’s in the presence behind them.
8. Change Frames Like You Change Shoes
One pair of glasses for everything? Not in Donata’s world. She rotates between at least ten pairs in a given week, switching depending on her outfit, mood, or the occasion.
Just like you wouldn’t wear flip-flops to the opera, you shouldn’t wear dull frames to a fabulous dinner. Donata keeps her eyewear wardrobe diverse: pastel acetate for the market, red velvet-trimmed frames for aperitivo hour, and metallic geometric designs for when she’s feeling particularly avant-garde.
Eyewear is personal. It’s okay to be a little eccentric.
9. Invest in Craft, Not Logos
She doesn’t care for brand names unless they stand for quality. She buys from small Italian artisans, independent designers, and opticians who still shape lenses by hand. Donata believes you should invest in story, not status.
Her best pieces don’t scream a logo—they whisper authenticity. She encourages everyone to seek the soul of a product, not the stamp.
10. Own Your Age with Style
Donata’s style isn’t about looking younger—it’s about looking stronger, prouder, bolder. Her frames celebrate her laugh lines, not hide them. She’s earned every wrinkle and wears them like medals.
She doesn’t try to copy what the younger generation is wearing. Instead, she shows them how it’s really done—with originality, class, and a touch of rebellion.
Final Words from Nonna Donata
“I wear glasses to see the world, yes. But more importantly, I wear them so the world sees me.”
She’s not an influencer, not on TikTok, not posing for clout. But she influences every single person who walks past her in the piazza. She reminds us that real style isn’t about age, trends, or approval—it’s about expression.
So if you’re reaching for the same safe pair of glasses every day, ask yourself—what would Donata do?
Probably grab something eccentric, Made in Italy, and fabulous.
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