Choosing a frame to suit you

Square faces are generally well-proportioned, tending to have a broad, deep forehead, distinctive jaw line and a square chin. A frame that adds length and softens the angles of the jaw line would compliment a square face. It would be advisable to avoid thin, angular styles, and anything with emphasis on the the bottom of the frame such as a dominant colour. A frame with detail or a distinctive colour at the top will detract from the bottom of the face, including the chin if this part of the face is prominent. An oval or soft rectangular would be an ideal shape to start with.

Rectangular faces are often quite long and have straight lines with sometimes a prominent jaw. Its is best to visually shorten the overall length, by selecting a frame with a high bridge which makes the frame sit further down the face, thereby balancing it. If a frame with more depth and width than usual is selected, this will add width to the overall appearance of the face . Therefore ideal frame shapes would be round, aviator or square with preferably soft angles.

Many people have naturally round faces, with soft features and little definition. The cheekbones are not prominent and the face has a shorter appearance than those with an oval face. By selecting the correct frame, we can add length to the face, increase definition of the cheekbones and try to focus the onlooker’s attention towards the top of the frame as this can help to add definition. Suitable frames would have mid/lower sides and/or mid/lower bridges; also a shallow frame would make the face appear longer.

This is considered to be one of the most desirable shapes as it suits most styles. An oval face is evenly proportioned and can be soft or defined. The line from the temple to the chine slopes inwards rather than continuing in a straight line. It is naturally well balanced as the forehead is only slightly wider than the jaw. Virtually any frame shape is suitable for a client with an oval face. The only styles to avoid would be round or something that’s over-complicated, which may detract from the natural balance of the face.

If you have blonde or fair hair and a pale complexion, a lightweight style with delicate colour effects would compliment your colouring. It would be best to avoid dark or heavy styles as these would appear to be too bold. ‘Cold’ colours such as blues and greens and light-coloured metals should also be avoided as these would appear to drain colour from your complexion.

If you have pale coloured hair and eyes, lighter coloured metal or plastic frames would suit you best, but if you have darker hair and eyes, choose a rich deep colour for your frames.

If you have dark hair and olive, Mediterranean or a light Asian complexion, try metal frames in antique silver or gold colours, as well as softer browns. It is best to avoid pastels and very dark colours.

If you have black hair and dark skin, you can choose from any of the metallic frames. Simple shapes and colours will generally look stunning. It is best to avoid bright colours.

Your hairstyle will have an overall effect on how your spectacles will look. If you have a short, geometric style, reflect the look with angular frames or soften it with an oval shaped frame. Soft, curly hairstyles can be enhanced by delicate shapes, rimless frames or translucent colours.

Prescription lenses for short sight (myopia) can make your eyes appear smaller, so bold make-up will emphasise them. It is better to use lighter colours on the inner corners and darker shades at the outer corners as this will add emphasis and make your eyes appear larger.

If you are long sighted, your prescription lenses could magnify your eyes, so it is best to use make-up sparingly and blend colours carefully.

These lenses can be up to 65% thinner than standard lenses, improving the overall appearance of your glasses and making them more comfortable.

People will be able to see your eyes more clearly if you use lenses with an anti-reflective coating. It enhances the cosmetic appearance greatly and is suitable for all spectacle wearers.

These lenses have an added benefit that not only will they act as a true sunglass, but it is also possible to use them for night driving – so one pair of spectacles could meet all of your visual requirements. These lenses are temperature-dependent, so do discuss the option with your dispenser to see if they are suited to your needs.