Sunglasses Frames

Choosing sunglasses that suit your face shape and style can be easier than trying on every pair in the store until you find a good match. You can determine which sunglasses frames are best for you, before you even go shopping!

Frames For Your Lifestyle

First, consider what you'll be using the sunglasses for. Today, many frames are suited for either an active day of skiing or relaxing on the beach. Designer sunglasses often can be worn for sports and activities or everyday use. However, some styles are still suited for a certain purpose: polarized wraparound shades for sailing, or amber-tinted sunglasses for winter sports. If you're just want sunglasses for everyday use, plastic frames are affordable and lightweight. For sports or winter activities, polycarbonate frames are an ideal choice as they are stronger and will hold up to impacts that will break plastic frames.

When you see a pair of sunglasses, look on the inside of the frames, where you'll see some numbers. The first number is the manufacturers number, followed by the color number and then the size of the actual lens. Next, you'll see the bridge size, which will tell you the width of the bridge of the frames across your nose. Last is the temple length, which is the length of the arm (from front to back). If you have an older pair of sunglasses that you want to replace, you can simply write down these numbers, and look for similar styles when you're shopping.

Sunglasses For Your Face Shape

Your face shape plays a big role in finding sunglasses frames that will suit you. If your face is square-shaped, a round or oval shaped pair of sunglasses will look better on your face than squared frames. Match the frame size to the size of your face: if you have a larger face, go for larger frames, but if your face is more petite, buy smaller sized sunglasses. Some frames that are perfect for square-shaped faces are the Ralph Lauren 876/S and Dragon Spree.

For an oblong face, you should opt for bigger sunglasses that will cover more of your face area. This will help draw attention away from the length of your face, while smaller sunglasses will only accentuate a long or angular face shape. Fortunately, big, bold sunglasses frames are in, so try on the Christian Dior Ragga 1 or various Michael Kors shades in a color and style you like.

Try Them On!

Try out some styles based on your face shape, activities and lifestyle, and make a decision based on what you feel comfortable in. You might find a pair of rimless sunglasses you love right away, or have to shop around for the perfect Jackie O sunglasses to complete a formal outfit. There are so many styles of sunglasses frames, and it's easy to find one that complements your taste and facial features if you know what you're looking for.