To choose the glasses that suit you best, you first need to fully understand them. The deeper you understand, the more you know what suits you best. You need to understand topics such as the shape of glasses, suitable colors, suitable sizes, and daily maintenance of glasses. The knowledge in this article will make you understand glasses better and make it easier for you to choose the glasses that suit you best.

One of the charms of glasses is that you can create different looks for yourself by wearing or changing different glasses. Different occasions can create different classic images by wearing different glasses. Whether it is traveling or working, you can find a better self through glasses. There are many types of glasses now, including acetate glasses, metal glasses, titanium glasses, hybrid glasses, buffalo horn glasses and wooden glasses made of natural materials, etc. Each type of glasses has different and distinctive characteristics, and also has its own advantages and disadvantages, which increases the difficulty of consumers' choice. This article will help you better understand glasses from the perspective of a glasses manufacturer, so that you can choose glasses that are more suitable for you.

 

Here we divide glasses into nine main types and teach you the impression each type leaves on you. Choose the shape of glasses.

1. Classic glass-shaped glasses frame. It is narrow in width and slightly raised on the edge, giving people an elegant and noble feeling. In Europe and the United States, this shape of glasses is widely regarded as a style that makes women look elegant. Simple metal types also help to enhance your image. The classic glass shape is similar to an inverted triangle with rounded corners and is a classic frame design. It is also called the Boston shape, and it is said that this name comes from its popularity in Boston, USA.

The picture below is a pair of classic cup-shaped acetate glasses, which uses a patchwork process and splices red on both sides to form a lower step and a dislocation effect.

 

2. Round and oval frames have a softening effect. Boston style glasses are an example of classic eyewear that has always been popular. The oval shape, like an egg laid on its side, with soft horizontal lines, gives you a gentle look. Round and oval frames can soften the face shape and create a delicate small face. Round-frame glasses are especially suitable for faces with wide foreheads and high cheekbones. Round frames can soften the lines of the face and make it more harmonious. If you choose a larger round frame, it will not only make your face look thinner, but also give you a cute, intellectual and fashionable look, making it suitable for daily wear.

Pictured below is a pair of round-frame acetate sunglasses.

 

3. Polygonal glasses frames, due to their unique angular design, can effectively modify the lines of different face shapes, and they can be suitable for different face shapes.

Round face: For example, the edges of polygonal glasses frames can neutralize the rounded facial lines, increase the three-dimensional sense, and lengthen the facial proportions.

‌Square face‌: Choose polygonal styles with slightly rounded corners (such as hexagons or octagons), which can soften the edges of the jaw and balance the toughness.

‌Heart-shaped face‌: The polygonal design with a wide top and narrow bottom can balance the proportion of a wide forehead and a pointed chin. A style with a wider bottom is recommended.

‌Diamond face‌: Streamlined polygonal frames (such as cat-eye frames) can weaken the prominence of high cheekbones and enhance the softness of the face.

‌Oval face,‌ is suitable for almost all frame types, and polygonal glasses can highlight the sense of fashion.

In addition, long faces are also suitable for polygonal designs with higher frame heights to avoid horizontal elongation effects.

The picture below is a pair of titanium glasses with polygonal and three-dimensional effects, which are made using a pressing process.

 

4. Square glasses have the power to convey sincerity and boldness. Simple black-rimmed Wellington glasses are also useful in business situations. We also recommend using brow lines and nylon lenses to create a strong look around the eyes, and using frameless lenses to create an intellectual look. Square frames are suitable for round and oval faces, balancing soft lines and adding three-dimensionality.

The picture below is a pair of square acetate sunglasses, which have a clear and bright bevel cut by a diamond knife.

 

5. Cat-eye shape. Cat-eye glasses are characterized by upturned corners, which are usually exaggerated and retro, and may be suitable for people who want to highlight their personality. Then you have to consider different face shapes, such as round face, square face, heart-shaped face, and oval face. Previously, square frames were suitable for round faces and oval faces, but cat-eye frames may also have a modifying effect on round faces, because the upturned design can lengthen the facial lines. For square faces, the curve of cat-eye frames can neutralize the edges, while the chin of heart-shaped faces is pointed, and cat-eye frames can balance the width of the forehead. Cat-eye glasses are more suitable for women.

The picture below shows a pair of acetate sunglasses made of patchwork materials, which are rich in colors consisting of black, red, and cream yellow, and the bevels cut by diamond knives show fashion and luxury.

 

6.Aviator shape. Aviator glasses have a double-bridge design, metal frame and larger trapezoidal or oval lenses, suitable for oval, oval and square faces, especially modern styles can soften the lines of square faces. 

The picture below is a pair of classic double-bridge aviator shape metal sunglasses, the classic combination of gold and black, just like an ancient airplane traveling through modern time and space, showing the dual style of classic and fashion;

 

7. Crown shape. "Pant" is a French word meaning Boston style. Its notable feature is its unique shape, formed by cutting the top in a straight line. It is named because its shape resembles a crown. Crown-shaped glasses are suitable for long faces, square faces and diamond faces.

Long face: Crown frames can effectively shorten the length of the face and make it look more balanced. The characteristic of a long face is that the length is greater than the width, and the width of the crown frame can increase the width of the face to achieve a balanced effect.

Square face: The outline of a square face is relatively tough, and the rounded design of the crown frame can soften the lines of the face and make it look softer.

Diamond face: The cheekbones of a diamond face are more prominent, and the rounded design of the crown frame can effectively soften the lines of the cheekbones and make it look more harmonious.

Below is a pair of crown-shaped carbon fiber glasses, which are flat on the top and have a blue carbon fiber sheet, and the lower half of the frame and the bridge have a brown-yellow striped wood veneer.

 

8. Wellington shape, which is trapezoidal, wider at the top and bottom, with a longer, slightly rounded top edge. This shape is so common that everyone thinks of it when they hear the word "glasses", and it is popular with people of all ages and genders, regardless of the era. The Wellington frame is characterized by a wide top and narrow bottom quadrilateral with rounded edges. This design combines elements of square and round, so it may be suitable for a wide range of face shapes. In terms of applicable face shapes, round and square faces may be suitable because the rounded edges can soften the facial lines, while oval and heart-shaped faces can also be adapted because this frame shape does not destroy the original balance. Long faces may need to be cautious to avoid further elongating the face shape.

Below is a pair of Wellington-shaped acetate glasses, which are slightly squared. Wide at the top and narrow at the bottom, slightly oval or round, is the most popular and common design.

 

9. Eyebrow frame shape. The design features of eyebrow frame glasses mainly include a thin metal or plastic line on the upper edge of the frame extending along the position of the eyebrows, forming a unique decorative effect. This design is not only beautiful and generous, but also can effectively reduce the burden on the bridge of the nose and ears, and improve the comfort of wearing. The lens part of the eyebrow frame usually adopts a fully enclosed or semi-enclosed design, which can provide better protection and stability. Eyebrow frame glasses are suitable for a variety of face shapes, especially those consumers who pursue fashion trends and pay attention to wearing comfort. The following are some specific face shape adaptation suggestions:

‌Oval face shape‌: Eyebrow frame can highlight the advantages of the face and maintain the overall harmonious beauty.

‌Heart-shaped face shape‌: Thin frames, light-colored frames and frameless glasses can set off the facial features and make the face look more harmonious.

‌Square face shape‌: Narrow frame styles and frames with width greater than depth can make the facial lines softer.

‌Diamond face shape‌: Frameless glasses or butterfly-shaped and cat-eye-shaped frames can make the facial contours softer and show unique charm.

‌Long Face‌: Frames with decorative or contrasting temples can add width to the face and enhance the overall look.

Below is a pair of brow-framed metal and acetate sunglasses with acetate panels on the sides that resemble eyebrows. The classic brow-frame glasses are Ray-Ban's brow-frame glasses.

 

The structure of glasses is relatively simple, but people use a variety of materials and create a variety of shapes. Just like the appearance, impression and wearing comfort of each piece of clothing are different. If you understand the characteristics of each type of glasses, choosing glasses will definitely become more pleasant.

There are two main types of frame materials, metal and plastic.

The main metals are:

Titanium alloy: light, corrosion-resistant, anti-allergic, suitable for sensitive skin, common in high-end frames.

Stainless steel: high strength and economical and practical, but slightly heavier than titanium alloy.

Memory metal (such as beta titanium): excellent elasticity, strong resistance to deformation, suitable for sports glasses.

Plastics are mainly:

Acetate: Acetate is mainly made of pulp and cotton, easy to process, and has a variety of colors, patterns and glosses. It can present unique textures through cutting and has a strong sense of fashion. Acetate is one of the most popular glasses materials at present.

TR-90 (super elastic plastic): light and flexible, impact-resistant, suitable for long-term wear or sports scenes.

Bio-based materials: environmentally friendly materials (such as plant-based acetate), taking into account sustainability and comfort.

 

A pair of glasses frames usually consists of the main parts such as the ring, nose pads, studs and temples. In addition to the above parts, there are also temple covers, stud screws, hinge screws, etc. But even if you have worn glasses for many years, you may still not know a lot about the parts of glasses. Here we will list the 8 most important parts of glasses. Understanding these parts will help you better understand a pair of glasses and make better choices.

 

1. Frame. The frame is the frame structure used to fix the lens at the front of the glasses. Its main function is to support the shape of the lens, ensure the optical center position, and provide wearing stability. It also has a decorative function. Its material (such as metal, plastic) and design directly affect the wearing comfort and aesthetics. The frame is the part that surrounds and fixes the lens. This is the key feature that determines the design. It can be roughly divided into a full frame that surrounds the entire frame, a half frame with only an upper frame, and a lower frame with only a lower frame support piece.

2. Temple. The temple is the part that connects the frame on both sides of the glasses and extends behind the ears. It mainly plays a fixing and supporting role to ensure that the glasses are worn stably. Usually made of plastic, metal and other materials, some designs contain hinges to adjust the length, and the end may be equipped with non-slip foot covers, and often printed with brand logos. Temples generally have a certain degree of elasticity so that they can flexibly adapt to the width of anyone's face.

3. Nose pads. The nose pad is the supporting part that contacts the bridge of the nose in the middle of the glasses frame. It is usually made of silicone or soft plastic. It is used to disperse the weight of the glasses, prevent sliding, and reduce pressure on the bridge of the nose. Some designs can adjust the height or angle to fit different nose shapes. Like the temples, this part determines the fit of the glasses. There are fitting types with metal feet and types that are integrated with the frame.

4. Hinge. The hinge is a movable joint component that connects the frame and the temples of the glasses. It is usually made of metal or plastic, allowing the temples to be flexibly opened and closed for easy storage and wearing. Some designs contain spring structures to enhance durability and ensure that they remain stable after repeated opening and closing. The hinge is the part that connects the front frame and the temples. It is the only movable part that can open and close the temples, so load resistance is its most important factor.

5. End piece. The head of the glasses is the reinforcement part of the connection between the frame and the temples. It is usually located at the ends of both sides of the frame. It plays a role in fixing the hinge and enhancing the stability of the structure. Its material (such as metal, plastic) and design affect the smoothness of the opening and closing of the temples and the overall durability of the glasses. Some styles add decorations or brand logos here.

6. Lenses. Glasses lenses are transparent optical elements embedded in the frame. Common materials include resin, glass, and polycarbonate (PC). The core function is to correct vision (such as myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, and presbyopia). At the same time, they can protect against blue light, ultraviolet rays, and glare, and have functions such as impact resistance or discoloration, taking into account both clear vision and eye health. There are also sunglasses that protect eyesight and have decorative functions. Once the lenses are put in, the glasses are complete.

7. Temple tips. The part where the end of the temple touches the top of the ear is usually made of silicone or soft plastic. Its main function is to prevent slipping, disperse pressure, and increase comfort. It may also be printed with brand logos. At present, acetate fiber spleen covers are the most popular.

8. Bridge. The bridge is the arc-shaped connecting part across the bridge of the nose in the middle of the frame. It is said that it is named because it looks like a bridge connecting the left and right sides from below. It is usually made of metal or plastic. Its main function is to support the overall structure of the frame and disperse the weight of the lens on the bridge of the nose to maintain balance. At the same time, its arc design is suitable for the height, width, and narrowness of different nose shapes to ensure stable and comfortable wearing. Some styles incorporate decorative elements here.

 

No matter how well designed the glasses are, they are useless if they are uncomfortable to wear. Just like choosing clothes, you should be careful when choosing the right size of glasses. Here we will learn about the knowledge of glasses size. What parts does the glasses size usually include? What is the function of each part? Common ones include frame width, temple length, nose bridge width, lens height and width, as well as total frame width, length of the curved part of the temple, length of the sleeve, etc. Glasses size is the specific size parameters of each key part of the frame, which directly affects the wearing comfort and visual effect.

 

Frame width: The horizontal distance between the widest parts of the left and right sides of the frame, which determines the overall size of the frame. It needs to match the width of the face. If it is too wide, it will slide off easily, and if it is too narrow, it will cause the head to be clamped.

Temple length: The full length of the temple from the hinge to the end, which controls the fit of the temple around the ear. If it is too long, it will be loose, and if it is too short, it will press the temple.

Nose bridge width: The horizontal distance between the nose pads or the bridge between the two lenses, which is adapted to the width of the nose bridge. If it is too narrow, it will press the nose wings, and if it is too wide, it will slide down easily.

Lens height and width: The vertical and horizontal dimensions of a single lens, which affect the field of vision. If the height is insufficient, it may block the line of sight (such as progressive lenses need to be of sufficient height).

Total frame width: The total span of the outermost ends of the frame, which needs to be coordinated with the face shape. If it is too wide, the face will appear small, and if it is too narrow, the face will appear large.

Temple bending section length: The length of the bending part of the temple end that touches the back of the ear, which determines the fixation effect behind the ear and affects the anti-slip performance and comfort.

 

Stability: Make sure the frame fits the face to avoid slipping or shifting.

Comfort: Distribute the weight to reduce the pressure on the bridge of the nose and ears.

Visual correction: Ensure that the optical center of the lens is aligned with the pupil to improve the accuracy of correction.

Aesthetic fit: Match the proportion of the face shape (such as a round face, choose a wide frame to balance the outline).

 

If you look at the inside of the temple, you will see the brand logo, model name and number engraved on it, indicating the width of the lens, the length of the temple, etc. Knowing the size that suits you will help you choose the glasses that suit you. For example, you can see 4624-145 on the inside of the temple, which is located inside the temple. Do you know what these numbers mean?

46: Indicates the width of the lens.

24: Indicates the closest distance between the left and right lenses.

145: Indicates the length of the temple.

 

1. Refer to the optometry form or professional measurement data (such as the pupil distance needs to match the width of the nose bridge). Make sure your pupil is centered in the lens. When putting on the glasses, make sure the black part of your eye is centered in the lens. Placing the pupil in the center gives a natural look and ensures maximum visibility.

2. When trying on, pay attention to the tightness of the temples, the support of the nose pads, and whether the frame covers the eyebrows/cheekbones. Remember, the reference point is the widest part of your face. The perfect size is equal to the width of your face or slightly narrower. If it is wider than this, the balance of the contour will be lost.

3. The height of the glasses, the most natural frame height is 1/3 of the length from the eyebrows to the chin. If it is too wide or too narrow, it may emphasize your face shape.

4. Special needs (such as sports glasses) require elastic materials and adjustable size designs.

 

Detailed explanation of types and functions of glasses lenses

Glass lenses are divided into many types according to material, function and design. Their core functions are to correct vision, protect eyes and adapt to different scene requirements. The following are the main classifications and functions:

 

1. Resin lenses. Features are light, impact-resistant, and moderately priced, but easy to scratch. Suitable for daily wear, especially for children and sports people, but generally require hard coating. Resin/PC lenses should avoid contact with organic solvents (such as acetone)

2. Glass lenses. Features are high transmittance and scratch resistance, but thick and fragile. Suitable for static scenes that require clear vision such as reading, but because it is too heavy, it is gradually replaced by resin.

3. PC lenses. Features are super impact resistance and lightness, but low Abbe number, that is, slightly obvious dispersion. Suitable for sports glasses, children's frames, safety glasses, etc.

4. High refractive index lenses (1.67/1.74, etc.). The characteristics are high refractive index, thinner and lighter lenses, but high price and low Abbe number. Suitable for high myopia/hyperopia (above -6.00) to improve the problem of thick lenses.

 

Single vision lenses. The function is to correct a single vision problem (myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism), and the degree of the whole field of view is consistent. Suitable for ordinary vision correction, cost-effective. Most myopia glasses now use this type of lens.

Progressive multifocal lenses. The function is to correct long, medium and near distance vision (such as presbyopia + myopia) in the same lens. Suitable for middle-aged and elderly people, need to adapt to the lens transition zone design.

Photochromic lenses. The function is to automatically darken when exposed to ultraviolet rays, transparent indoors, and have both correction and sunglasses functions. Suitable for those who frequently switch scenes outdoors to reduce the trouble of changing lenses.

Polarized lenses. The function is to filter reflected glare (such as water, snow, road reflections) and improve visual clarity. Suitable for driving, fishing, skiing and other strong reflective environments.

Anti-blue light lenses. The function is to block electronic screens (415-455nm harmful blue light) and relieve eye fatigue. Suitable for people who use computers/mobile phones for a long time, please note that some lenses may be slightly yellowish.

Anti-fatigue lenses. The function is to slightly adjust the lower part of the lens to assist and reduce the pressure on the ciliary muscle. It is suitable for people who use their eyes at close range for a long time, such as office work, reading, etc.

Driving lenses. The function is to enhance night contrast and prevent glare. Some lenses combine polarization + blue light protection. Common ones are yellow lenses, which are suitable for driving at night or in strong light environments.

 

Bifocal lenses. The lenses are divided into upper and lower areas, which correct far/near vision respectively. The transition is abrupt and is gradually replaced by progressive lenses.

Aspherical lenses. The curvature of the lens surface changes gradually, reducing edge distortion, thinner and more natural, suitable for medium and high degrees.

Defocus lenses. Mainly used for myopia prevention and control, through peripheral defocus design to delay the deepening of myopia in adolescents, such as "multi-point defocus" and "peripheral defocus" technology.

 

Various coatings can be added to the front and back of the lens, mainly the following types.

Hard coating: Anti-scratch, extend the life of the lens. Commonly used on high-end myopia lenses and sun lenses.

Anti-reflective film: Reduce reflections, increase light transmittance, suitable for night driving, commonly used on sun lenses.

Waterproof and oil-proof film: Easy to clean, reduce water stains and fingerprints. Commonly used on high-end myopia lenses and sun lenses.

Anti-static film: Reduce dust absorption.

Avoid dry wiping of coated lenses, rinse first and then wipe.

 

Choose functions according to needs. For outdoor use, choose photochromic/polarized lenses. For office use, choose blue light protection + anti-fatigue lenses.

Choose materials according to degree: choose resin for low degree and high refractive index for high degree.

Match optometry data: ensure that the optical center of the lens corresponds accurately to the pupil distance.

Brand and after-sales service: high-quality lens brands have more stable craftsmanship and more complete quality assurance, but the price is generally more expensive. Consumers can choose according to their own budget.

In short, the choice of lenses needs to be comprehensive of vision problems, usage scenarios, comfort and budget. It is recommended to customize under the guidance of a professional optometrist to achieve the best visual health effect.

 

Once you choose a pair of suitable glasses, you will want to keep them for a long time. However, after long-term use, the glasses may slip and deform easily. Here are the maintenance suggestions for glasses.

Lens cleaning.

Correct method: rinse the dust on the surface of the lens with clean water, add 1-2 drops of neutral detergent, rub the inside and outside of the lens with your fingers, rinse and gently absorb the moisture in the same direction with a special lens cloth (microfiber). Do not wipe with paper towels or corners of clothes, as friction will scratch the coating. At the same time, alcohol and soapy water are prohibited, which will destroy the anti-reflective and oil-proof and waterproof coating. You should also avoid using high-temperature water for rinsing, as high temperature can easily cause the resin lens to deform.

Storage specifications for glasses.

Folding and storage. Fold the temples with both hands at the hinge to avoid deformation caused by bending the temples with one hand.

Special mirror box: Put the lenses into the hard shell mirror box with the lens facing up, away from hard objects such as keys to prevent damage.

Temporary placement: Place the temples flat on the table with the temples closed, and do not let the lenses touch the table with the bottom facing down.

Glasses usage habits suggestions.

Take off and put on with both hands. Taking off and putting on with one hand may cause the temples to expand outward or the hinges to loosen.

Avoid high temperatures. Do not expose glasses in the car to the sun (resin lenses will deform and frames will debond).

Prevent chemical contact. Stay away from hairspray, perfume, and swimming pool chlorine (corrosion of frame coating or lens coating).

 

Tightness of temples. If the temples expand outward, you can go to the store to adjust the hinges or the curvature of the temples.

Clean nose pads. Use a soft brush to clean the dirt in the gaps of the nose pads. Replace the silicone nose pads in time if they are aging and yellowing.

Tighten the screws. Check whether the hinge screws are loose (tighten with a small screwdriver, not too much).

Recommendations for daily protective measures.

Sports protection. Use non-slip ear hooks or sports straps during strenuous exercise to prevent the frame from falling off.

Anti-fog treatment. In winter, when wearing a mask or entering an environment with a large temperature difference, you can apply anti-fog spray or choose anti-fog lenses.

Anti-scratch. Place the lenses upwards, away from gravel and rough surfaces.

 

Anti-sweat in summer. Wipe the metal frame dry in time after sweating to prevent sweat from corroding the coating.

Anti-static in winter. Wipe with anti-static lens cloth to reduce dust absorption.

 

Deep cleaning every year, it is recommended to go to a professional eyewear store to use an ultrasonic cleaner to remove dirt in the gaps.

Frame shaping. If the frame is severely deformed, such as asymmetric temples, twisted frames, etc., professional tools are required to correct it.

 

In short, reasonable daily maintenance can extend the life of glasses by 2-3 years, and regular inspection and scientific cleaning are the key. If the lens is severely scratched or the frame is deformed and cannot be repaired, it is recommended to replace it in time to avoid affecting vision health.