Choosing the Perfect Frames for your eyeglasses
Getting a pair of eyeglasses is as easy as picking one out from a store display. However, this does not necessarily mean you’ll have chosen the right one for you. There are a number of factors you want to consider when shopping for eyeglasses frames.
Why Choosing the Right Eyeglass Frame is Important?
You will be wearing your eyeglasses for the better part of the day and it helps if they are comfortable and stylish. You don’t want beautiful frames that weighs heavily on the bridge of your nose or the back of your ears, but you don’t want an unsightly contraption either - no matter how comfortable it may be. You have to find the right balance between functionality and style.
When choosing eyeglasses, first determine their purpose:
- Are you going to use them every day? If so, you need a sturdy frame.
- Are you going to use them for special occasions, like parties? Then you want a light, possibly colourful, frame.
Consider your lifestyle. Do you work in an indoor environment? Do you engage in sports and outdoor activities? If so, you need frames that can withstand the elements and are not so fragile that they will break easily, what you need are frames that will keep your spectacle lenses intact.
Salespeople or front office staff often meet new people on a daily basis, and looking professional is a must. Your eyeglasses definitely contributes to your overall look, so choosing the right frames is essential. For some, comfort is the main feature they look for in their frames. This includes surgeons or even those who work with heavy equipment, where comfort is crucial to ensure there are no distractions and you can focus on your work.
How to Choose the Right Eyeglass Frame by Face Shape?
Choosing frames for glasses is not a one-size-fits-all matter. Aside from function, face shape and features are important determining factors that affect how a frames look on your face. A pair of eyeglasses may look perfect on one person and look totally out of place on another.
How do you choose the right frame depending on your face shape?
There are seven main face shapes:
- Oval: This is the ideal face shape due to its symmetry. The best frames are those that span (at least) the widest part of the face.
- Heart-shaped (base-up triangle): This shape is wide at the top and narrow at the bottom. Frames that have a wide bottom help offset the narrowness of the lower face.
- Oblong: A face with an oblong shape has a length that is roughly double its width. Frames that are “longer” than they are wide match this face shape best. Aviator glasses are a good example.
- Square: With the jaw and forehead having roughly the same width, a square face is best complemented by narrow frames. These frames add length to the face and soften its angles.
- Diamond: Wide, distinct cheekbones, a narrow forehead, and a narrow jaw line characterise a diamond-shaped face. To balance out the facial features, oval or cat-eye frames are best.
- Round: With smooth lines that make the width and length of the face essentially the same, a round face needs frames that add angles and length. Narrow, rectangular, and rimless frames suit round faces well.
- Base-down triangle: This face shape is wide at the bottom and narrow at the top. A frame that highlights the upper face looks best. Frames with tops that are decorated and heavily coloured suit this face shape.
Frames for Men, Women, and Kids
Frames for men, women, and kids have different looks, structure, and style.
The most common factor is the size. Eyeglasses frames for men are usually larger than those for females. Both are naturally larger than spectacle frames for children. Shape and colour are also determining factors when choosing frames. However, optical shops carry a range of frames that are unisex, suitable for both men and women. For adults, it mainly boils down to personal preferences.
Frames for kids, however, may need more consideration. In addition to the size, the frame should be able to withstand rigorous activity, which children are prone to engage in. For example, frames for kids should not break easily when they are shoved into backpacks and pockets or if they accidentally fall.
Need help choosing your frames?
Visit your nearest optical store for advice and recommendation
