There’s no doubt that choosing a pair of eyeglasses is a highly personalized decision that no one else can make for you. But when it’s just you and a gazillion pairs of glasses to try on, how do you know where to start?
If you’re getting ready to go in for a new pair of glasses, it helps to have an idea of what kind of glasses might best fit your needs and your face. Here are 3 tips that can help you get started:
1) Consider The Frame Material
Before you even start trying glasses on for looks, ask to try on some frames in different materials to get an idea of the frame that might be most comfortable for you. There are several different types of materials to choose from:
- Titanium and Stainless Steel: These materials are hypoallergenic, lightweight, and durable. Titanium frames are particularly tough and light, a good combination for people who might be less than ginger with their frames.
- Plastic: Plastic frames usually offer a uniform frame that many people find comfortable because of its lightweight nature. Some highly active people, ones who might work out in their glasses, for example, may find that plastic frames slip off their faces. The plastic frame is an ideal choice for fashion seekers who want bright colors or patterns.
- Memory Metals: If you’re searching for a durable pair of glasses for a child or an active adult, memory metal frames are a great choice. These frames can be bent and contorted and then will return to their original shape. While it’s obviously not encouraged to twist your frames for fun, these glasses can hold up to much more abuse than other frames, and will require less adjustments.
2) Consider Your Face Shape
The rule of thumb for glasses is that the shape of frame ought to contrast your face shape. Round faces look better in angular frames, while angular faces benefit from a round frame. If you’re unsure of your face type, don’t be afraid to ask an optician for help.
Frames should also balance with your face’s proportions, though current fashion suggests otherwise. Ultimately, you should choose a frame that feels good and that you like on your face.
3) Be Prepared to Learn About Lenses
You might think that all your work is done when you’ve finally picked out the perfect frames, but you thought wrong. Choosing a lens for your lifestyle and budget can be a little overwhelming if you’re not prepared for all the possible choices.
While all glasses have a lens, there are different lens treatments that your optician will explore with you:
- Anti-reflective coatings are a good choice for most people, particularly those who drive often at night or who work in front of a computer screen.
- Scratch resistant coatings are good for those people who are a little rough on their glasses or may not be as careful when cleaning them.
- Transitional Lenses may be a good choice for people who want one pair of glasses for both indoor and outdoor conditions
- Hydrophobic coatings can help prevent against glasses fogging up for people who live in colder climates or who work out in their glasses.
While picking out the perfect pair of glasses can be a process, it can be a lot easier with a good optician in your corner.