Finding The Right Frames For Your Face
It’s easy to make fun of the idea that Superman can hide his identity behind a pair of glasses.
However, anyone who wears glasses knows that they can make a major difference to the way someone’s face looks. They’re almost like a customizable facial feature! This is why it’s so important to choose the right frames for your face when you’re shopping for new glasses.
Whether you’re getting new glasses because your old pair broke, your prescription is out-of-date, or you’re simply looking to make a change, there will always be a few different factors to consider when selecting the perfect frames.
The Importance Of Face Shape
Everyone is different, and that includes face shape. Most faces fit into one of four main categories, although they could be a blend of two or more.
- Square: strong jawline and forehead, similar width and length
- Round: full cheeks, rounded hairline and jawline, similar width and length
- Oval: rounded hairline and jawline, greater length than width
- “Heart-shaped”: wide cheeks and forehead, narrow chin
An easy way to figure out your face shape is to look in the mirror, close one eye, and (using a washable marker) draw the outline of your face. Whichever shape the outline most closely resembles is your face shape! If you’re still not sure, your local Vision Source® member optometrist can help you out when you come in for your next appointment.
The Main Variables In Frame Selection
The most basic principle to follow when choosing glasses is to look for frames that will balance out the shape of your face. Putting square glasses on a square face only emphasizes the shape, but glasses that are more rounded will create a softer appearance. Likewise, rectangular glasses balance out a round face.
For more tips on matching frames to face shape, check out this short video:
Size matters as much as shape. If your glasses are too large or too small, they won’t be flattering. The size of the lenses should be proportionate to the size of the wearer’s face. People with smaller faces will look better in smaller glasses, where people with larger faces will look better in larger glasses. That’s why old glasses from high school don’t look as good on adults!
Last But Not Least: Style
Vintage, modern, hipster, chic—frames come not just in many shapes and sizes, but in many styles. Matching our frames to the size and shape of our faces is all very well, but most of us are more interested in making sure our frames match our sense of fashion. That’s why your optometrist gives you so many to choose from at their practice!
We’ll Help You Find Frames You Love!
If you need further assistance in choosing the most flattering and stylish frames, schedule an appointment and your optometrist will help you find the best ones for you. We at Vision Source® want to make sure you not only find frames that you love, but frames that love you back! We can’t wait for you to see how you look in your new glasses!
We’re excited to help you choose your perfect frames!
Find a Vision Source® practice near you using our search tool.