Frame Measurements

The diagram below illustrates the fundamental elements and component parts which make up the spectacle frame. In terms of the fitting of the spectacle frame, the bridge is perhaps the most important part to consider when choosing your frames, because it is here that the major bearing surface and area of contact between the front and the face is situated. The bridge design should facilitate a comfortable and supportive fit which will maintain the position of the lenses over your eyes with a natural gaze.

The Bridge Width

The bridge width is the minimum horizontal distance between the nasal surfaces of the rims on a plastic or metal frame, or the minimum horizontal distance between the nasal surfaces of the lenses in rimless frames. If a frame has adjustable nose pads on metal arms various modifications can be made in order to achieve a satisfactory fit;

Increasing the distance between the pads may be appropriate in cases when:

The frame size is sitting too high on the face
The bifocal segments or distance section of a progressive (Varifocal) lens are too high
The bridge is too small a fitting for the nose
The distance from the eye to the lens is too great

Decreasing the distance between the pads may be appropriate in cases when:

The frame sits too low on the face
The bifocal segments or distance section of a progressive (Varifocal) lens are too low
The bridge is too low for the nose
The lenses are sitting too close to the eyes and lashes

The Lens Width

The lens width is the distance between the vertical sides of a rectangle containing the lens shape (in mm), the diagram above illustrates this. The sizes for the lens width and bridge width can usually be found on your current glasses by looking on the inside of the frame (usually printed on the arms or the bridge)

The Arm Length

The arm length is measured from the dowel point to the extreme end of the side, this is made up of the length to the bend and the length of the drop to give the overall length of side.

When choosing a new spectacle frame check your current frame sizes by looking for the printed measurements (usually found on the arm or bridge), for example:

52-16-135
52 (mm) will represent the lens width
16 (mm) will represent the bridge width
135 (mm) will represent the overall length of the arm

Below is how we would measure the arm length

Overall Frame Width

Another measurement to consider would be the overall width of the frames, the diagram above illustrates this, it is important to note, aside from two times the lens width plus the bridge width the overall width is also dictated by factors such as the thickness of the rims of the frames and how swept out the lugs are from the frame. Our measurements give an approximate indication to the overall width taking into consideration the lenses and bridge not the lugs of the frame, this measurement is approximate and will vary according to the type and design of the frames.

The Perfect Frame for you!

The shape of your face is the most important factor when choosing frames. The following descriptions should help you decide which frame design is right for you.

Round Faces
Rectangular frames would be most suitable.

Oval Faces
Most frames will suit this face shape. Size is the most important point when deciding on frames.

Triangular Faces
Rectangular frames would be most suitable.

Square Faces
Oval Shaped or Round Frames would be most suitable.

Rectangular Faces
Oval and Round frames would be most suitable with medium or larger size models.

Face Shapes and Glasses

Choosing new Spectacles can be a long process, and ultimately can make an enormous impact on the way you look, just like having your hair done or updating your wardrobe. Spectacles are no longer seen as a devise to aid your vision, in this constantly growing fashion conscious world we live in, they are a reflection of your personal image or a decorative piece of jewellery to enhance your facial features.

In the Spectacles market today there are literally hundreds of styles, shapes, materials, colours and sizes to bear in mind, however here at SelectSpecs.com we have a great range of Spectacles for you to choose from to meet your individual requirements.

All our Spectacles are inclusive of Prescription lenses for distance or reading complete with any coatings you would normally pay extra for in the shops. There are simple add-on prices for special lenses and finishes, so you will always know in advance exactly what you are paying for, there are no hidden costs involved at SelectSpecs.com.

Generally one pair of Spectacles is just not enough these days, many people like to have a few pairs for different occasions, one for work, one for leisure, a special pair for going out, or perhaps a different pair for driving. No matter what your Prescription, colour preferences or budget, here at SelectSpecs.com we are confident we have a style and lenses to meet your needs - but where do you start?

Think about the image you want to project to people in your environment, if you mostly wear your Spectacles at work, you may want to choose a traditional classic style, however if you are unreserved and love bright clothes, make a statement and choose a pair of Spectacles to match.

If you want Spectacles for everyday use, to be worn for any occasion, it may be wise to follow our guide for face shapes and colours, because no two people are exactly the same, the key is to emphasise your best features and draw attention away from points which aren't so good.

Face Shapes and Colours

What shape is your face? Have a look in the mirror, hold back your hair if need be, and study the shape. Generally people's faces can be a combination of different shapes, so use this information only as a guide, not as a rule.

Square Face Shape

A square face has a broad, deep forehead, wide jaw line and square chin. Choose round style frames to soften the jaw line.

TRY: Round and oval style frames with sides set at the top of the frame.

AVOID: Thin, angular and square styles, and those with colour emphasis on the bottom rim.

» See below for examples of celebrities with Square Face Shapes


Sandra Bullock	Demi Moore	Kim Cattrall

Round Face Shape

A round face is fairly short with a wide forehead, often with full cheeks and a rounded chin.

TRY: Styles that are wider than they are deep, and square or upswept shapes that draw attention to your upper face. Choose styles with high set sides, and those with colour or decoration on the temples.

AVOID: Small and round shapes and very large frames which will make your face look rounder.

» See below for examples of celebrities with Round Face Shapes


Uma Thurman	Vanessa Willams	Cameron Diaz

Oval Face Shape

An oval face is well balanced and softly rounded; the forehead is slightly wider than the jaw, which curves gently, and the cheekbones are high. An oval face looks good in most styles, so be adventurous!

TRY: Modern small, geometric styles.

AVOID: Styles that are uncomfortable to wear or that you feel do not suit your face.

» See below for examples of celebrities with Oval Face Shapes


Julia Roberts	Charlize Theron	Beyonce Knowles

Long Face Shape

A long face has high cheekbones and a deep forehead. You can balance the face's narrowness with the right frame style. A style with all over colour will suit you.

TRY: Wide frames and those with a strong top line. A larger, square frame can give balance to a long, oval face.

AVOID: Small, square shapes.

Triangular Face Shape

This type of face shape has a comparatively narrow forehead and eye line, broadening to the jaw line.

TRY: Bold styles as they will add balance to the face.

AVOID: Small Narrow frames.

Heart Shaped Face

A heart-Shaped face has a broad forehead, tapering to a small neat chin and mouth. Choose smaller styles without decorative detail on the temples.

TRY: Slender, rounded or square styles, with lower set sides.

AVOID: Styles which are wider at the top; these will reflect the face shape rather than balance it.

» See below for examples of celebrities with Heart Shaped Faces