How to Choose Great Pairs of Eyeglass Frames

Eyeglass frames come in plenty of colors, shapes and designs.

Having to wear eyeglasses doesn't mean you have to sacrifice your individual fashion sense. Nowadays, eyeglass frames are designed specifically to satisfy the tastes of the wearer. Frames are available in different shapes, colors and patterns designed to fit different lifestyles, personalities and face shapes. With the wide range of frame options, there's bound to be the perfect pair for everyone.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

1. Determine what shape of frames look best on your face. Going to your local vision center and trying on different shapes will help. Butterfly-shaped frames complement oval and heart-shaped faces. Rectangular frames help slim a round face, while cat-eye frames help create curved angles in square faces. Relying on the advice of the salesperson or optician is a good idea; she knows what will work for you.

2. Choose the style that you're looking for. Determine whether you want a style that's chic, masculine, bold or basic, for example. Some frames come with a patterned design, such as leopard, or stud-like decorations along the temple. If you choose a trendy pair of frames, remember that they may go out of style quickly.

3. Pick a frame color. Frames are available in all kinds of colors, including bright solids and wild multicolor combinations. Commonly, bold color choices are selected to match outfits or as a way to express individual style. Blond, brown and black hair works well with bronze and coral shades, while auburn and platinum hair looks good with black and blue frames.

4. Decide what type of material you want your frames to be made from. You'll have a choice of metal or plastic. Metal frames, which typically have a more conservative look, are resilient. They also usually have nose pads, which can be adjusted to make the frames fit comfortably. Plastic frames, however, offer more style and color choices.

5. Pick the designer you're most interested in. Some popular frame designers include Ralph Lauren and Prada that offers classic and fashionable styles.

6. Figure out your price range to determine which selections are best for your budget. Prada, for example, is typically a more expensive brand. Ask the salesperson or optician to show you frames in a range of prices.

References

• LensCrafters
• LensCrafters: What's Your Face Shape?
• EyeTopics: Choosing Eyeglass Frame Colors