Category: Eyewear & Sunglasses

Why do some eyeglasses look attractive on display in the optical shop, but not so great when you try them on?
It could be that the frames are the wrong style for your face shape. Your face shape plays a significant role in whether a certain style of glasses will look good on you.
What is my face shape?
To determine your face shape and which eyeglass styles will look best on you, pull your hair away from your face and look directly into a mirror. Take a close look at the overall shape and contours of your face and head.
Here are the seven primary face shapes and the type of eyeglass frames that look best on each shape:
Oval face shape
An oval face shape is considered to be ideal because of its balanced proportions.
To maintain the natural balance of an oval face shape, look for eyeglass frames that are as wide as (or wider than) the broadest part of the face.
Walnut-shaped frames that are not too deep or narrow are a very good choice.
Heart-shaped face
A heart-shaped face has a wide top third and a narrow bottom third.
To reduce the apparent width of the top of the face, choose frame shapes that are wider at the bottom. Thin, light-colored frames and rimless frames that have a light, airy appearance also are good choices.
Oblong face shape
An oblong face shape is longer than it is wide and has a long, straight cheek line.
To make an oblong face appear shorter and more balanced, try frames that have more depth than width.
Frames with decorative or contrasting temples also add width to the face.
Square face shape
A square face shape has a strong jaw and a broad forehead, and the width and length of the face have roughly the same proportions.
To make a square face look longer and soften its angles, try narrow frame styles, frames that have more width than depth, and narrow ovals.
Diamond face shape
Diamond-shaped faces are narrow at the forehead and jawline, and have broad cheekbones that may be high and dramatic. This is the rarest face shape.
To highlight the eyes and soften the cheekbones, try frames that have detailing or distinctive brow lines. Rimless eyeglasses and frames with oval or cat-eye shapes also can be good choices.
Round face shape
A round face shape has curved lines with the width and length in the same proportions and no angles.
To make a round face appear thinner and longer, try angular narrow eyeglass frames to lengthen the face.
Frames with a clear bridge and rectangular frames that are wider than they are deep also can be good choices.
Base-down triangle
A base-down triangular face shape has a narrow forehead and widens at the cheek and chin areas.
To add width and emphasize the narrow upper third of the face, try frames that are heavily accented with color and detailing on the top half (brow) of the frame.
Skin tones, eye color and hair color
When choosing eyeglasses, face shape isn’t the only factor that determines which frames will look best on you — your skin tone, eye color and hair color also play important roles.
The best eyeglasses will complement the coloration of your face, eyes and hair.
Skin tone
Regardless of the color of your skin, skin tones are categorized as either “cool” or “warm.”
A cool complexion has blue or pink undertones, and a warm complexion has a “peaches and cream” or yellow cast. Olive skin is considered cool because it is a mixture of blue and yellow.
Eye color
Eye colors usually are a secondary element in determining your coloring because of the many variations of eye color.
For example, blue eyes can range from a cool almost-violet to a pale blue-gray, which is warm. Brown eyes can vary from a light cider shade (warm) through a medium-brown to a cool almost-black.
Hair color
Hair colors also are considered warm or cool. Strawberry blond, platinum, blue-black, white, auburn, salt-and-pepper and ash brown are cool. Warm hair colors include golden blond, brownish black, brown-gold and “dirty gray.”
Eyeglass frame colors
Once you have determined if you are “warm” or “cool,” then you can find the eyeglass frame colors that will suit you the best.
Examples of frame colors best for warm coloring are: camel, khaki, gold, copper, peach, orange, coral, off-white, fire-engine red, warm blue and blond tortoise.

Premium optical brands are focusing on quality materials and elegant classic design with eyewear style trends in 2020. If you are shopping the luxury high-end side of the market, eyeglass frames are becoming more intricately detailed: lots of clean lines, mixed with filigree and more exotic materials. But done subtly is the secret.

1. Seeing New Tints in Translucent Frames
   Translucent frame colors are clear winners. While untinted clear still remains this season, it’s the crystal tints in burgundy, grey, rose, champagne, citrine, green, and browns that are currently catching eyes. The best designs pair the translucent frames with steel and titanium plated in light gold, silver, or gunmetal that’s shiny, or with a brushed patina. These translucent frames almost act as a neutral, and pair well with most outfits: a great classic to have in your wardrobe.
2. Combination Material Frames go Thin or Bold
   The combination-material vibe stays steady for 2019, but is being combined with exceptionally thin or thick bold looks. Middle-of-the-road constructions are starting to feel bland. Look for very thin translucent acetate combined with thin titanium temples and/or bridge for an on point look. To stand out, spend a little extra and go with higher quality manufacturing. You’ll get thinner frames and more finely-tooled details. Pair these thin frames with a sunglass clip for a functional, on-trend look. Conversely, select a very thick full acetate frame, but not in black—go with crystal pinks, champagne, burgundy and greens. If you go heavier/bold, look for frames with details like sculpted facets, steps, and textures. With these bold looks, don’t go oversize. A tailored fit is best.
3. Lens Shapes Turn a Corner
   When it comes to eyewear shapes, the style trends stay round, or are deep squares. Thick rectangles are still out. Aviators in both metal and acetate are still in, but this season only in the round lens shape, not teardrop. The retro 70s teardrop styles of a few years ago are feeling dated. The trend now is the round aviator, although not perfectly round. This subtle shape change, make all the difference.
4. Lens Treatments & Eyeglass Lens Trends
   IN: Lens Wash
   A light lens tint or “lens wash” has been on trend for a few seasons now and is still going strong. This subtle lens color airs more on the “cool factor” or fashion side of things than for function or sun coverage. Most tints will still have UV/UB protection in them but it won’t really help diminish glare like polarized lenses can. The light tinted lenses bring an extra pop to your frames, and you can wear them indoors because your eyes will still be visible.
   IN: Blue Light Filter
   The blue light filter lens or “computer lens” has been a hot topic this season. Many people are reaching for this lens to help reduce the blue light glare caused by your computer, cell phone or other devices and the sun. This lens has an extra filter imbedded that will help relax your eyes and reduce strain.
   OUT: Flat-based Lenses
   These almost look like a mirror, because the lenses are perfectly flat. These, along w/ bright mirrored lenses, are now dated.
5. Sunglass Trends
   2020 is a mix of multiple decades of style trends when it comes to eyewear: hyper trends that may not last, runway trends, and decade trends. Hyper trends are typically dispensed by lower quality brands trying to churn out the glasses as quickly as possible using the cheapest material and labor available. Runway trends have a bit more longevity, and will last through multiple seasons or a few years. Decade trends are more of your classic styles that stand the test of time and avoid short term trend waves.

It’s hip to be square. And it shows in the wide range of eyeglasses available that complement a square-shaped face. Round and oval glasses are the best choice for people with square faces. These frames will soften and balance your strong jawline and add contrast to your face shape.
Whether you choose round frames for a polished look or go vintage with a pair of browline glasses, your features work best with dark colors and bold styles. But avoid square or rectangular glasses, as they will emphasize the angles of your face. Adding even more angles to your strong and proportioned face can make your face look too wide and rigid.
What is my face shape?
A square face shape has a strong, horizontal jawline, a broad forehead and balanced cheekbones. If this description fits your face, then you are in luck. There are many different eyeglasses styles that will highlight your strong features.
How to pick the right glasses frame for your face
Round glasses
Round frames are a sophisticated, polished look that works well with a square face shape. Try jet black for a modern aesthetic. Or, opt for tortoiseshell frames if you are looking for something more classic. No matter what color you go for, this style works beautifully with a square face shape.
Browline glasses
Channel your inner “Madmen” with a pair of vintage browline glasses. These frames are thicker at the top, mimicking the way the eyebrows frame the face. Their unique design is one of the most flattering choices for square faces.
Oval glasses in a bright color
The best glasses for square faces will soften your strong angles, and oval frames succeed at balancing your face and minimizing your strong features. Look for a pair with some color to make a bold statement.
If you have a square face, you can afford to be adventurous with your eyewear choices. However, there are still some things to keep in mind before you make your selection. It’s best to avoid rectangular or square frames in light colors. Remember to choose frames that balance and contrast your strong features.

Do your eyeglasses slide down your nose or rest too heavily on your cheeks? You may have a low nose bridge.
Whether you pick horn-rimmed, Wayfarer or rectangular eyeglasses, there are plenty of stylish frames specially designed to rest easier on your face. And, you can say “buh-bye” to sliding glasses when you pick the best glasses for your unique features.
LOOKING FOR GLASSES FOR LOW NOSE BRIDGES? Find an eyewear store near you.
Do I have a low nose bridge?
If the bridge of your nose aligns with or just below your pupils, you have a low nose bridge. People with low nose bridges may also have higher cheekbones.
How to pick the right glasses frames for your face
Horn-rimmed frames
Add a touch of geek-chic to your everyday wardrobe when you don a pair of horn-rimmed glasses. You’ll be in good company: Actors Cate Blanchett and Brad Pitt have both been photographed in horn rims.
Wayfarer frames
Popularized by the 1983 movie, “Risky Business,” Wayfarers are a mainstay among stars ranging from Madonna and Debbie Harry to Elvis Costello and Jack Nicholson. The trapezoidal frames rest easy on low nose bridges while adding definition to cheekbones.
Rectangular frames
Just about anyone can rock a pair of rectangular frames, which is a good thing for those with low nose bridges. Rectangular frames add angle to rounder cheeks with a low profile that’s perfect for any style pairing. Emma Stone and Prince William are among famous rectangular jet-setters.
A low nose bridge is nothing to look down at. In fact, you benefit from a bevy of stylish frame options. Take your pick from a selection of curated low-bridge glasses and benefit from better comfort to boot.
While you’re searching for the perfect pair of glasses, make sure you also select the right size according to your pupillary distance and temple width.