How to Choose Stylish Eyeglass Frames

For some of us, eyeglasses are a necessity. But that doesn't mean they have to be boring. Glasses are a personal accessory, much like a handbag, jewelry, or hat. They provide an opportunity to enhance your features and express your personal style. Follow the steps below to pick a stylish pair of eyeglasses.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. 
    

   Do a little research before you go shopping. Some optical stores stock standard, run-of-the-mill frames. They might be fine if you're looking for something utilitarian, but you are after the latest, coolest frames! Check out local optical stores' websites to get an idea of what kinds of brands they carry, which will give you a sense of how current their stock is. Ask friends who have cool glasses where they bought them.

2. Bring a friend. Now that you've decided on a few stores to check out, bring along someone whose opinion you really trust. Someone who will give an honest opinion. This way, when you've narrowed it down to two or three frames, your friend can help you make the final decision.

3. 
    

   Consider which 'look' you are going for: sleek frames, nerdy frames, retro frames, etc. Do you want glasses that make a real statement with color or have eye-catching details? Or do you want very minimal frames that almost disappear? But DON'T limit yourself. Try on as many different kinds of frames as possible. You might be surprised at how great a particular pair looks, even if it wasn't what you initially had in mind.

4. Take advantage of the sales people. Yes, their main objective is to SELL, so don't get talked into buying the most expensive pair, but they have a lot of experience choosing frames to complement different face shapes. As I mentioned before, they might direct you to something you wouldn't have picked, but ends up looking amazing.

Tips & Warnings

• Check out vintage stores! Some carry really cool, old school frames. Most optometrists should be able to fit lenses for them.
• When you go shopping for eyeglass frames, make sure you look the way you usually do; as in, you are wearing your hair in your normal style and are dressed in clothes in which you feel comfortable. If you show up looking sloppy, chances are you won't like any frames you see on your face.
• No matter how hot you look in a pair of glasses, the bottom line is comfort.
• Once you find frames you like, check to see if they are sold online. Often you can find them for much cheaper, though it is a bit of a risk to order them sight unseen.