Frame Sizing Isn't What it Seems:
Let me throw a wrench to everything you might think you know about finding the right "size" glasses. While many people think a couple of simple numbers can determine the needed frame size, more often that not, that's just not the case. The numbers I'm referring to are the A or Eye size (Lens width), and the DBL or Bridge size (distance between the two lenses). While these numbers can be helpful guidelines, not all frames with the same numbers will fit the same way. Just like your clothes don't all fit exactly the same even with the same waist measure, neither do all frames.
Why Don't The Numbers Tell Me the Right Size?
This is a great question, and comes down to the wide array of materials used to make the frames! The distance from the edge of the lens to where the temple (arms, bows, whatever you want to call them) go back to the head and thickness of the temples themselves are just a couple of the factors. Add in different bridge designs with the same width and totally different fits and construction, and things get hairy quickly!
So, How Can I Even Figure Out What To Buy?
Pay close attention to the actual construction of the frame. Opticians know these tricks well and our staff is happy to assist if needed, just send us a picture, and what it is you personally want out of your next eyewear function and style wise. For a guideline for yourself though, look at the material thickness from the outer lens to the edge, this can be just one or two millimeters, on up to several or as much as ten or more millimeters in the cases of some specialty designs for high prescriptions! Next pay attention to the thickness of the material in the bridge, and the way it tapers. These subtle cues can give you a great impression of how the frame will fit on you with just a little visualization!
Does a Frame Always Need to Fit Perfectly?
Contrary to the optical worlds opinion, NO. You don't need perfect central alignment, or frames exactly the width of your head. What you do need, are certain lines to flow well with your face, colors that work for your complexion and wardrobe, and knowing whether you want to have a look that is bold and oversized, or small petite and minimal, or any combination of the two. There is a fine line between oversized and TOO BIG, so do dredge into this area with caution. This is where we come in, if you're not sure, let us help!
What if I Like Really Different?
Welcome to the party, you're one of us. We understand trendsetters and fashion forward styles are not something the everyday eye will find pleasing, and we're not going to talk you out of that gorgeous vintage cat eye shape in blazing pink colors, or whatever your heart desires, as long as it really is a good look for you in color tones and style choice! Frames built for the world of high fashion are some of our favorites, and personally our staff rocks some of the wildest things out there! Whether you like the basics, or something as wild as a rimless with dragon shaped lenses, we're not judging!
Full Video showing many of the differences and what "proper" sizing looks like:
