Embracing Your First Time Glasses At 40+

By Julia Rees, Senior Managing Editor

Posted on 7 min read

Welcome back to The Code of Style, and this feature about Embracing Your First Time Glasses At 40+.

Are glasses a fashion statement? Of course they are! Yet, when it comes to corrective glasses, opinions are divided. Iris Apfel has tought us an important lesson in eyewear. Wearing glasses can be just as fashionable as it is practical. The centenarian with a knack for fashion and interior design has made glasses an incourtournable element of her media personality. And, truth be told, we could all learn a tip or two from Iris when it comes to sporting a pair of glasses. 

Indeed, navigating the world of eyewear isn’t just about picking out the trendiest frames or the most affordable options. It’s about understanding that eyewear is an integral part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle—a lifestyle that encompasses both physical and emotional well-being. In other words, you can’t neglect the importance of seeking the guidance of a specialist optometrist when it comes to selecting the right eyewear. Whether it’s obtaining a prescription for corrective lenses or figuring out whether contact lenses or surgery would be better for you, consulting with a professional will help you figure out how to approach eyesight correction. 

For many adults, the need for glasses, particularly as they reach the stage of presbyopia, can be met with mixed emotions. It’s not uncommon to experience feelings of self-consciousness, shame, or even discomfort—especially for those who have never required corrective eyewear before. However, it’s essential to recognize that needing glasses is nothing to be ashamed of. Instead, it’s an opportunity to embrace a tool that not only improves your vision but also enhances your overall quality of life.

Besides, finding the right pair of glasses isn’t just about functionality; it’s about choosing frames that you genuinely love and that instill a sense of confidence within you. After all, when you feel good about the glasses you wear, you’re more likely to wear them consistently, ensuring that your eyes receive the care and protection they deserve. 

So, whether you’re in search of the perfect pair of prescription lenses or simply looking to elevate your eyewear game, remember that the journey begins with finding glasses that not only meet your visual needs but also reflect your unique style and personality.


Embracing Your First Time Glasses At 40+

Embracing Your First Time Glasses At 40+

Choose frames that complement your face shape

You’ve probably noticed that frames come in different shapes. So understanding how they complement your face shape will make a huge difference. Yet, if you have not used much eyewear until now, it is fair to say that you may need a little help. 

Different face shapes pair best with specific frame styles , and this is what will enhance your features and achieve a balanced look. For instance, round faces can benefit from angular frames like square or rectangular shapes to add definition. Bu opposition, angular faces work best with softer, rounded frames to soften harsh angles.

A brief reminder on how to identify your face shape: Use the proportions of your forehead, cheekbones, and jawline. Whether your face is round, oval, square, heart-shaped, or diamond-shaped, there are frames tailored to enhance your unique features.

Consider your skin tone

Your skin tone is key to finding the perfect match when it comes to fashion. You’ve probably heard it about jewelry or even figuring out the right outfit. But this is true for eyewear too. 

Warm skin tones tend to pair well with frames in earthy tones like gold, tortoiseshell, or warm browns, while cooler skin tones often complement silver, black, or jewel-toned frames.

So, this brings us to a popular test, which is finding your skin undertonewhether it’s warm, cool, or neutral. In essence, warm undertones have hints of yellow or peach, while cool undertones have hints of pink or blue.

Embracing Your First Time Glasses At 40+

If you’re looking to make a statement with vibrant frames like style icon Iris Apfel, opt for colors that contrast with your skin tone without clashing. 

For warm undertones, consider bold hues like red, orange, or warm blues, while cool undertones can rock shades like purple, teal, or cool greens. 

Pay attention to frame size

Here’s there’s no mystery. The ratio of frame size to face size is essential. For instance, frames that are too large can overwhelm your features, while frames that are too small may appear insignificant or out of proportion.

Yet, there’s another thing to bear in mind here. Depending on the prescription, you may need to look for medium to large frame sizes to accommodate thicker lenses or specific lens shapes. 

What difference does it truly make? It is as much a point of comfort as fashion and function. So, it may be worth checking with an optician which frames would be suitable for your prescription. This gives you the opportunity to try out the right types of frames for your needs. 

Coordinate with your wardrobe

Coordinating your eyewear with your wardrobe isn’t just about matching colors; it’s about finding frames that seamlessly integrate with your personal style. As Iris Apfel shows, your glasses are an extension of your fashion identity.

Ideally, you want to have more than one pair of glasses. Just as you wouldn’t wear the same outfit every day, having multiple pairs of glasses lets you switch up your look to suit different occasions, moods, or outfits.

Think about lifestyle and activities

Are you an active person who loves outdoors activities? For individuals with active lifestyles, durable and lightweight frames with features like spring hinges or sports-specific designs are a must-have. They bring the flexibility and durability you need for active hobbies. 

Besides, if you spend a significant amount of time outdoors, you want to look for frames with UV protection and polarized lenses. 

Additionally, wraparound frames offer added coverage and protection from wind and debris, making them ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. So, if you’re someone who enjoys outdoors running or climbing, you may want to invest in a sporty pair of glasses. You can still have another pair for everyday use. 

Experiment with different materials

Every material has different pros and cons. 

Plastic frames are lightweight and come in a variety of colors and styles, offering a balance between durability and fashion-forward designs. 

On the other hand, metal frames, such as titanium or stainless steel, are known for their strength and durability, making them ideal for those seeking long-lasting eyewear.

For individuals prioritizing sustainability, materials like recycled plastic or eco-friendly acetate offer a more environmentally conscious option. These materials not only reduce waste but also provide stylish and durable alternatives for eco-conscious consumers.

Pay attention to bridge fit

The bridge fit of your glasses plays a role in both comfort and functionality. The bridge is the part of the frame that rests on your nose. So, a proper fit ensures that your glasses stay in place without slipping or causing discomfort. Some frames come with adjustable nose pads that can be tailored to your nose shape for a customized fit.

Not every frame has an adjustable bridge fit. So, some frame shapes and styles may not be suitable for all nose types. For example, frames with adjustable nose pads are ideal for accommodating a narrow nose, providing stability and preventing sliding. Frames with wider bridges or saddle bridges are better suited for larger noses, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit without pinching. 

Consider lens shape

The shape of your lenses can affect both the vision correction and your overall appearance. You know the drill, round lenses can soften angular features, while rectangular lenses can add definition to softer facial structures.

However, depending on the level of correction you need, you may not be able to wear all lens shapes. 

High prescriptions, for example, may require thicker lenses, making certain shapes less practical or aesthetically pleasing.

Besides, the lens shape can affect peripheral vision and comfort, so it’s important to choose a shape that not only complements your face but also meets your visual needs. 

Accessorize

Accessories are a fantastic way to personalize your glasses and make them uniquely yours. They add flair to your eyewear but they also serve practical purposes. 

What are some of the most popular accessories for glasses? Chains or straps are great for added security. So you don’t have to worry about dropping or misplacing your glasses. 

But you can also look for fun accessories, like colorful cases or lens cloths. Whether you prefer minimalist, sleek designs or bold, statement-making pieces, there are accessories available to suit every taste and need. 

Regular maintenance

You can’t have glasses without knowing how to take care of them. Thankfully, this isn’t rocket science. To maintain your glasses, clean them regularly with a microfiber cloth and a mild cleaning solution to remove dirt, oil, and smudges. When transporting them, always store them in a protective case to prevent scratches and damage.

Embracing Your First Time Glasses At 40+

You can come across some mishaps that are easy to troubleshoot. Common maintenance issues include loose screws, bent frames, or scratched lenses. Fortunately, many opticians offer repair services to address these issues promptly. Whether it’s tightening screws, adjusting frames, or replacing lenses, seeking professional assistance ensures that your glasses remain in optimal condition for clear vision and lasting style.

In Conclusion :
Embracing Your First Time Glasses At 40+.

Have you reached the age of eyewear wisdom and style? Congratulations, this is the opportunity for you to make a fashion statement while complimenting your look. Eyewear can be stylish, fun, and versatile, and even if you have never worn glasses before, you’ll soon find a way to express your personality through them. 

We hope you found this article about Embracing Your First Time Glasses At 40+ helpful and you can have a look here for more of our health and wellness features.

I’m Julia, the Senior Managing Editor and I can’t wait to share some more articles with you again soon! In the meantime you can find more style, lifestyle and travel inspiration on  “The Velvet Runway” .

Thank you for reading 

Website: The Velvet Runway  , Instagram : @thevelvetrunway

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