Choosing the Right Frames for a Contemporary Look

With Spring just around the corner, it may be time to freshen up your look with a new hair style, a few on-trend (but not trendy) pieces to update your wardrobe or a new pair of specs.  Most people over the age of 50 wear glasses at least some of the time and many don’t want the hassle of putting in contact lenses every day.  Fortunately, glasses and frames have come a long way in recent years and the right eyeglass frames can keep you looking relevant, contemporary and even a bit younger!

A strong black frame that fits your face can be quite youthful, but stay away from tortoiseshell if you have gray hair.  If you go for a strong frame, minimize other accessories to maintain a classic, sophisticated look and don’t forget some lipstick to provide balance.  A clear frame can also be both modern and practical, and will go with anything you are wearing.

When you are picking out glasses, enlist the help of a trusted (and stylish) friend to give you an honest opinion.  Ask the salesperson as well; they have fitted hundreds of frames on people of all ages and usually have a good eye for fit and the right shape for your face.  A properly fitted frame will not ride up higher than your brow.   A frame with upturned corners, like a cat eye shape, can lift the face and highlight cheekbones; a narrow face can look modern in rounded frames.

Keep in mind that frames should suit your personality, don’t choose something solely for their fashion credibility, you have to feel good in them as well.  And under no circumstances are glasses to be dangling on a chain, nothing says “grandma’s home” like reading glasses hanging around your neck.

If you have auto-darkening glasses, be sure to take them off for photographs.  They can remain slightly tinted indoors and shadow your eyes.  Better to have a separate pair of dedicated and fun prescription sunglasses and a second pair of regular glasses for use indoors.  Always invest in an anti-reflective coating which will allow your eyes to shine through.

According to the Vision Council of America, your frame should contrast with your face shape and be in scale with your face.  Choose a color that reflects your own coloring; a cool blued-based complexion or a warm, yellow based skin tone.  A blue frame, for example, can really make blue eyes pop, and no need for eyeshadow! 

To learn more about how to choose the right glasses or sunglasses for your complexion or face shape, follow this link to the Vision Council website.