There are two kinds of people on this planet. The first group thinks of eyeglasses as a functional tool to enhance their vision. The second group is already on the lookout for the latest trends and styles in eyeglasses.
Here's the thing about glasses – they're no longer restricted to people with vision problems. Today, eyeglasses are considered a sophisticated and stylish accessory that can give you an instant makeover.
But finding the perfect pair of eyeglasses that fits your face is a herculean task, as the blogger Barry Silver points out. Apart from your face shape, hairstyle, and skin tone, you need to weigh in several other parameters to find the right glasses for your face.
Why Eyeglass Measurements Matter
Whether you intend to use your eyewear as a style statement or functional accessory, glasses measurements play a key role in your overall appearance. Also, when you're wearing prescription glasses, a wrong fit can result in various side effects, including blurred vision and headache.
And let's face it – no one looks clumsier than the person who has to constantly push the bridge of their eyeglasses over their nose. If you don't want to be that person, make sure you find the right glasses measurements for your face.
In this article, we'll take a closer look at eyeglass measurements, and understand how you can go about finding the right eyewear to suit your face.
Know What's a Good Fit
Before you dig deeper into glasses measurements for your face, you should have a clear idea of what a good fit means. The main purpose of glasses measurements is to create a sense of balance on your face.
Check the Bridge Fit
If you're trying on a new pair of glasses, start by assessing how the bridge rests on your nose. If your eyeglasses are a good fit, their weight will be evenly distributed on each nose pad. On the other hand, if the frame digs into either side of your nose and leaves red marks, it's too tight for your face.
Watch Your Eye Position
Next, check how the lenses align with your eyes. Ideally, when you look straight, the center of each pupil should line up with the optical center of the corresponding lens. Also, don't choose eyeglass frames that extend above your eyebrows.
Don't Forget Frame Width
It's just as important to compare the width of your face with the total frame width. If you want to create a sense of symmetry on your face, you should avoid frames that are wider than the width of your face at the temples.
Pay Attention to the Temples
The temples or arms of your eyeglasses are important components that influence fit and appearance. Eyeglasses frames of the right size will have temples that gently rest on your ears. The arms shouldn't apply pressure to the side of your face or leave any significant gaps.
Also, the temples should easily extend behind your ears and provide a snug fit by adjusting to the contour of your head.
Move Around
Lastly, try shaking your head or bending forward while wearing the eyeglasses. If you've got the right glasses measurements, your eyewear won't slide or come off despite vigorous movement.
Now that you have a clear idea of what a pair of well-fitting eyeglasses look like, it's time to take a closer look at glasses measurements.
Decoding Glasses Measurements
If you're lucky enough to find a reliable optician, they'll take the burden of eyeglass measurements and fitting off your shoulders. They'll measure various parts of your face and recommend the optimal frame size.
But what happens when you're ordering new frames online? How are you supposed to find the perfect lens width and bridge width that'll suit your face? A simple solution is to reach out for your best-fitting glasses.
Understanding the Numbers on Your Eyeglasses
Check the inside of the temples for three numbers separated by hyphens. The sequence of these parameters represents the lens width, bridge width, and temple length. Next, look for eyeglasses that have similar numbers etched on the temples.
Lens Height Is Important
Apart from these factors, it's also important to consider the lens height. If you have presbyopia, you'll need bifocal or progressive lenses comprising different prescriptions. Choose a frame with sufficient lens height to accommodate the varying magnifications.
Similarly, if you have a prescription with a high Rx power, you'll want a frame with a smaller lens height. It'll help reduce the lens thickness and keep your eyes centered.
Shape Matters Too
Ultimately, the fit of an eyeglasses frame will depend on how well it compliments your facial features. While there are plenty of general conventions about choosing frames according to your face shape, take the liberty to experiment. If the frame fits your face well, you might even be able to rock a pair of round eyeglasses on a round face.
The world of glasses measurements might seem overwhelmingly confusing. But as long as you have a clear understanding of what a well-fitting pair of eyeglasses feels like, you'll find the right one. Also, it's wiser to check with an optician to identify the optimal frame width and lens height for your face.