Let's face it: finding the right prescription glasses can be a unique challenge.
Fashion, function, and fit are all important factors to consider when shopping for glasses online. You'll want a pair of frames that not only look great but feel great while they're on, too.
From the lens prescription to frame choice, achieving the right fit for your face shape is a multi-step process that all starts with gathering the right measurements.
Here's what you need to know about how to gather the right measurements to accommodate your face shape and other factors to consider when shopping for your next pair of prescription eyeglasses.
Key takeaways:
- Bridge width, temple length, and face width can all impact frame sizing.
- Taking proper measurements is the first step toward achieving the perfect fit with your eyeglasses.
- A trained eye specialist can perform an eye exam, take face measurements, and help you find the right pair.
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Achieving the perfect fit
Beyond fashion and function, the single most important thing to pay attention to when shopping for new glasses is their fit.
Getting to know your measurements and making sure they are taken correctly is an important component of proper eye care.
Glasses typically come with their measurements inscribed directly onto the frame and/or arm. You may find up to three unique numbers on the frames of your glasses, which stand for lens width, bridge width, and temple width.
Familiarizing yourself with these numbers and what they mean can ensure you pick the right pair of frames every time.
Bonus: How to Choose Glasses in 4 Steps
How to measure a face for glasses frames
Taking proper measurements of your face is crucial for achieving the perfect glasses fit.
Even a difference of a few millimeters can significantly impact how they appear on your face, how they fit, and most importantly, how they affect your vision.
Inaccurate measurements can also cause physical discomfort, including sensations of pressure or pinching.
Taking measurements
The following measurements can help you determine the right eyeglasses for your face shape.
Bridge width
Despite its name, bridge measurement doesn’t just measure your bridge. Instead, it is used to represent the shortest span between the lenses in your glasses frames.
To determine bridge size, you’ll want to observe the position of your nose bridge. For example, if it sits above the pupils, you may require a larger bridge in your glasses. If it sits below the pupils, a smaller, narrower one may make for a better fit.
Temple length
This measures each temple of your glasses, beginning at the screw that attaches it to the main body of the frame, to the tip of the arm that extends behind your ear.
To get this measurement, place a ruler horizontally across your face in the area just below your eyes. Then, measure the distance between your left and right temples. This figure can help you determine the total frame width of your glasses.
Face width
Lens width, or “eye size,” is always represented by the first measurement in the sequence of numbers inscribed on your glasses. It can tell you each lens’ width in millimeters and accounts only for the measurement of the width of the clear lens in your glasses, rather than the surrounding frame.
To estimate lens width, subtract your bridge width plus about 6 mm from your total frame width, then divide the result by two.
Face shape
In addition to your facial measurements, there are other factors to consider when searching for the perfect glasses, including your face shape. Some of the most common face shapes include:
- Round
- Oval
- Square
- Heart-shaped
- Diamond
- Rectangle
Thicker frames can look great on those with long jaws and those with round face shapes, while circular or oval frames can flatter square, rectangular, and heart-shaped faces.
Whether you have a round face and cheeks, an oval face, or a square face, there is a pair of eyeglasses designed to flatter your unique facial features and sense of style.
Oculus Eyecare
Scheduling an appointment with your local eye doctor or optometrist can help you finally find glasses that meet your unique needs for style, comfort, and function.
Oculus Eyecare carries an extensive collection of high-quality frames, helping glasses wearers find their perfect pair.
Conclusion
If you are tired of scouring the internet for the perfect new pair of glasses, only to be disappointed with the fit when they arrive, you're not alone.
Taking proper measurements ensures you find a pair of frames that fits well and helps you feel your most confident.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How do I know my face size for glasses?
A: To figure out your face size for eyeglasses, take proper measurements of temple-to-temple width. You can do this by placing a ruler across your face, just below your eyes, and measuring between your temples in millimeters. This number can be used to help you find a frame with a similar total width.
Q: How do I figure out my face shape?
A: To determine your face shape, you can take measurements such as your face length, forehead width, cheekbone width, and jawline width.
You can then use these measurements to match descriptions of different face shapes, including oval, round, square, rectangle, heart-shaped, and diamond.
Q: What is the golden ratio for face shapes?
A: Some studies have shown that the “golden ratio” for face shapes is when the width is approximately 1.618 times the width of the mouth. This ratio is said to create balance across facial features, making for a proportionate and aesthetically pleasing appearance.
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Oculus Eyecare is Seattle’s premier optometry practice and optical boutique for those looking to see and be seen in a new way. Located in South Lake Union on Denny Way, Oculus Eyecare offers comprehensive eye care services and exams for individuals and families in Seattle. Click here to schedule an appointment or a personal styling session. To stay connected and learn more, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X/Twitter.