Frames come in an infinite number of shapes,
sizes, styles, colors, and levels of quality. So how
does one decide what frame to purchase? The certified opticians
on our staff are trained to help you make this decision. We
display over 700 frames in various styles and price ranges. Hopefully
you will find the information here helpful in your decision
making process.
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IDENTIFYING
YOUR FACE SHAPE |
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The shape of a face is generally described
as either angular (square/oblong) or curvilinear (round/oval).
Although most faces are a blend of the two types, one quality
will always dominate, giving the face the total appearance
of being angular or curvilinear. Face shapes can be divided
into several general shapes; your face shape will help to
determine the appropriate eyeglass frame shape to complement
your features.
OVAL FACES
The oval face is considered to be the ideal
shape because of its balanced proportions. The oval face
is neither curvilinear nor angular. The ideal should be
to keep the oval's natural balance. Look for frames that
are:
1) as
wide as, or wider than, the broadest part of the face
2) almond or walnut-shaped frames that
are neither too deep nor too narrow so they do not upset facial balance
Almost any frame style will
compliment the balanced proportions of a typical oval face.
The goal in frame selection is to preserve the appearance
without altering proportions.
LONG, NARROW FACES
Base-Up shaped faces have a very wide top
third and small bottom third. The goal should be to
minimize the width of the top half of the face. Look for
frames that are:
1) relatively
large frames with horizontal lines
2) soft corners or curving lines
3) darker color will shorten distance from
chin to hairline
Angular frames accentuate the length
of a narrow face. Rounded or oval frames, particularly with
the extra emphasis of dark color, will shorten the apparent
distance from chin to hairline.
SQUARE FACES
The square face is characterized by a strong
jaw line and a broad forehead. Width and length are in the
same proportions. The objective is to make the face look
longer and soften the angles. Look for:
1) curvilinear,
narrow styles that soften facial angles
2) frames
that are wider than the widest part of the face
3) frames
that have more width than depth
4) narrow
ovals
A prominent jawline is distinctively
masculine–angular frames with severe
design will brighten the image. Frames that are rounded and have a greater than
normal width (from temple to temple) will make a square facial outline less obvious.
ROUND FACES
A round face has curvilinear lines
with the width and length in the same proportions and
no angles. The ideal frame should make the face appear
longer and thinner. Look for:
1) angular, narrow frames that will
lengthen the face
2) high or mid-height temples, which help create a longer profile
3) a clear bridge that widens the eyes
4) colored temples to add width
5) frames that are wider than they are deep, such as an octagonal shape
Soft contoured frames will keep a rounder appearance; bolder shapes and striking
colors will make the face appear longer. Aviator style frames are a favorite.”
One crucial step in the process of frame
selection is identifying what activities your eyewear is going
to be used for, in other words your lifestyle. The individual
that is using them for sports or is involved in construction
has different needs than the individual that works in an office
environment. Of course many individuals have several
components to their lifestyle and require eyewear to fit those
needs i.e. an individual that works in an office but plays
racquetball would benefit from two pair of glasses.
Although there are many shapes, sizes
and colors, frames typically fall into one of 5 categories:
1. Drill Mount frames have holes
drilled into the lenses to mount the frame on the lens. These
are the lightest frames available.
2. Rimless frames generally
have a frame for the top of the lens and a nylon line
that fits into a groove for the bottom of the lens.
3. Metal frames are made from
various alloy's, the lightest and strongest being Titanium.
4. Zyl
frames are made from various plastic polymers in a variety
of colors and styles.
5. Specialty frames are designed
for sports activities.
