Whether you’re getting your first ever pair or are looking to switch up your style, choosing a new pair of glasses can be hard (even if it’s fun!). There’s a lot to consider, and it can take a considerable amount of time and effort before you’re walking out of the opticians with the ideal pair.
In many ways, getting the lenses right is the easy part, given the fact that the process is guided by a professional optometrist. It’s an objective decision, whereas which glasses you like and which suit you is subjective.
Fear not, though; this article is here to help you. Here’s what you need to know to find the right glasses for your face shape and style!
Understanding Face Shape
There are a surprising number of different face shapes across the population, and determining which type you have is very important in understanding which glasses will suit you best.
Rounder faces feature a smoother mandibular curve (jaw line) and typically a more tapered forehead, whereas square faces are the opposite – broader jaws with a similarly broad forehead. Then, there are oval-shaped faces, which tend to have a longer vertical dimension and a narrower chin.
There are also heart and diamond shapes, with the former exhibiting a wider forehead and narrower chin, and the latter being widest at the cheekbones.
The Right Glasses for the Right Shape
Generally, glasses that are going to complement your facial features are actually those that deemphasise the most prominent parts. For example, if you have a square-shaped face, you should usually be looking for round frames, and if you have a round face, square frames will fit best.
Diamond and heart-shaped faces should try to detract from a wider forehead with frames that have extra width at the bottom, and narrower frames to fit best with wider cheekbones, respectively. Some face shapes, like oval faces, can look great with virtually any style.
It’ll take a while to get right, so try on several different pairs and take your time.
Don’t Forget About Your Personal Style
Sometimes, you can spend such a long time getting the face shape relationship right that you neglect to consider whether you actually like the glasses. Be sure to choose something that fits in with your own personal style; this is something you’ll discover instinctively and from gathering feedback from others.
If you’re struggling to choose, Ray-Ban glasses tend to strike a nice balance between professional and stylish, so starting there may be a good bet. Think carefully about where you’ll be wearing your new glasses, and what sort of clothes you’ll be pairing them with most frequently.
Wrapping Up
This is only a rough guide, but it should give you a good head start at finding the right pair. The assistants at the opticians will be able to help you in each of the above categories, and be sure to gather feedback from your friends and family. Most importantly, though, prioritize your gut feeling. If a style resonates with you, go for it!
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