The Better To See You With…
Girls Who Wear Glasses: Eyewear As An Accessory
I’d been feeling a little strain in my left eye for some time, so scheduled an eye exam last month. I wasn’t surprised to learn that my prescription had changed, but was surprised when the doctor told me my distance vision had actually improved, so my old prescription was now too strong. Not that I need an excuse to look for some new frames. 😉I consider eyewear an accessory, and since I wear it daily, want to get it right.
Eyewear can be expensive, (though there are more and more lower-cost options like Warby Parker and Costco). But updating your frames periodically is one of the best ways to keep your look current and modern. It’s a worthwhile style investment. Be sure the frames are a good fit for your face (width and overall size), but don’t be afraid to try something a little bold.
Ever since my friend D. introduced me to SEE Eyewear, they’ve been my go-to for fun, reasonably priced glasses. (No, this isn’t a sponsored post; I’m just a fan.) And when I’m in Paris, I always make time to visit Jimmy Fairly.
I tried on several pairs at SEE. I’d intended to take photos to show some comparisons, but I was on my own, the store was busy, and the lighting was…challenging for photos. There were a lot of “maybe’s,” but when I put on this pair, it was an instant YES!
The color is a spot-on match for one of my best colors in the Spring palette, “Cinnamon.” So as an accessory, this eyewear coordinates beautifully with the rest of my wardrobe! The nose bridge fits perfectly and comfortably, and I love the shape, which is a little retro, but not too literally so.
This is model #0530 from the “Core” Collection. I don’t see it online but if there’s a store near you, check to see if they have in stock.
I opted for Transitions lenses, as they’re so convenient for travel. These don’t get super dark, so I’m not completely blind when I go from outdoors to indoors.
More Budget-Friendly Frames
Maquillage
This is the makeup I’ve been wearing most days:
- Makeover Workshop Tinted Primer in “Light”
- Makeover Workshop Cheeky Glow Creme Blush in “Dahlia”
- Chantecaille Waterproof Brow Definer in “Light Taupe”
- Charlotte Tilbury Full Fat Lashes Mascara
- Chantecaille Lip Chic (“Geranium” for a more natural look, “Mandarin” for more impact) Am wearing Mandarin here.
C’est tout.
And Speaking of Color…
I’ve (finally!) updated my SHOP page with some new-for-Spring styles. Tried something new this time, and have organized by color. Take a look, and let me know what you think.
Do you have a favorite eyewear designer or shop?
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I’ve had that same situation, my distance prescription has improved as my close-up sight gets worse. I now have one eye with no distance correction at all.
I’ve conquered the online eyeglass market pretty well. My prescription isn’t strong. Once you have you PD and get familiar with frame sizes -bigger tends to be better for progressive lenses- it’s fun, and a savings. The PD I’ve measured myself and the one I got at the Eye doctor were identical. Measure carefully and a couple of times.
I’ve had success with Zenni, Wherelight, and several other online retailers. Wherelight takes a long time to deliver, so don’t order from there unless you can wait. Zenni is good because you can also order music or computer strength glasses. My mother wears tri-focals and she had a good result with larger frames – there isn’t a progressive tri-focal so the lenses are lined. I have some frames that I paid a lot of money for and had those lenses replaced at Lensable. That cost more than Zenni, but the lenses I got were particularly good. So if you have high-end frames consider just getting new lenses.
I have been wearing frames from Cartier for the past few years. I spent a fortune on a pair of frames that only frame the edges of the lenses. they are platinum and I love them! You used to wear Charlotte Tilbury Light Wonder as a foundation. why did you stop? I bought it a year ago on your recommendation and I still love it!
Hi Linda, I still wear the Light Wonder too. I just wear this one if I’m going to be running errands and such in daylight, as it provides a little extra SPF.
If you only need reading glasses, Izipizi, from France, has some great styles and colours.
Anne & Valentin frames. Only available at upscale shops and also a store in NewYork. Best frames ever but expensive.
Absolutely agree but sometimes dificult to find. I want to try on before purchasing.
I too am a fan; picked mine up in Paris and go back to the same shop each visit for an update. Very comfortable and so stylish.
I’ve had good experience with Warby Parker, starting with the opportunity to order frames by mail to try on at home to the actual in shop ordering process. Very fast, high quality, I’m sold. No more buying glasses at the eye doctor, I save hundreds of dollars at WP. Their pricing is set, progressive bifocals $299 for any frame.
I’d like to hear more about the Transitions lenses. Will the lenses darken enough for driving? Have they improved the speed at which they change? I also wear prescription eyewear and would love more affordable options for variety. My current pair by Face a Face Paris was north of $1k.
Hi Marguerite, they will darken in direct light, but since most auto glass has filters, they don’t darken as much in the car as outside. I find they’re fine for driving. And for me, the convenience of not having to switch glasses while driving is worth it.
I now have two pairs of Transitions lenses. I fought buying them for years because I associated them with “old people.” Now that I’m one of them (ha!), I gave in and with stylish frames, I love them! I think Transitions have come a long way through the years and change color pretty quickly. I especially appreciate them when going in and out of stores, as I don’t have to continually change from prescription sunglasses to regular glasses in order to see. Also, since macular degeneration runs in my family, I appreciate the extra protection from the sun when I otherwise wouldn’t think to wear sunglasses.
Awhile ago…when people had the of lenses that darkened in sunlight, they never quite lightened enough inside…is that no longer an issue? If so, would love to try this type of lenses
Yes, that was the case with the early Transitions lenses. But the new ones are much better and more responsive, and do lighten completely indoors now.
I have some vision problems that means I have 4 types of glasses: 1 for computer work, 1 for reading, 1 with clear lens for distance, and 1 for distance sunglasses. When I go out, I must always have the distance glasses with me. I have no interest in progressive lenses, and my eye doctor doesn’t think I would like them anyway. I tried transition lenses and hated them! So, with all these issues, I buy the cheapest glasses I can find at Eyecare Express: 2 pr for 59.95, though you have to pay extra for tinted lenses and lightweight material. Of course, the advertised price is intended to get you in the door, where they tempt you with more expensive frames, and they only have about 1/2 dozen choices in the cheap lens. I check their offerings regularly, and buy only when I find cheap frames I like! But, I get a lot of compliments on the pair I wear now, the squared frame is shaded grey to bright yellow-gold. Eventually, I’ll lose them because I’m careless, so I’m now shopping for a replacement to keep in reserve.
I like Lafont frames, I have a small face and many of their styles fit and they have fun and funky styles and colors.
I like the color board, and the start, showing the colors of the year.
Oh, if you noted which colors suited which seasons, that could be helpful. Thanks.
Hi Eileen, once I’ve had my color training, I plan to do that. 😉
I love your new frames Susan! You look pretty in them. For a long time I have been interested in buying classes online to save money and every time I buy a new pair it seems to be close to $1000. My one question is what do you do if the frames need to be adjusted or tightened?
Thanks! I’ve usually bought my frames in person, because I do need to have the ear pieces adjusted. But I suppose if you purchased online, you could always ask a local optical shop to make the adjustments for you.
For a fee each time, after signing a release form. Some won’t do it at all. This service free for customers, but not for others.
I guess it depends on the shop.
Having a small face, I can wear children’s frames so can buy very nice ones more cheaply. I fell in love with a pair of Anne et Valentin, bright red (but good for a spring!) with blue ear pieces. I sympathise with the four pair commenter. My fine glasses are for reading when my contacts are out, my computer pair is 25+ years old, for wearing over contacts multiple pair from Peeperspecs live in various rooms. Too many eye problems for one pair, for sure.
Susan, the frame color is lovely on you. I resist wearing spring colors; although that would appear to be my season, I prefer autumn, but as usual you influenced me.
I love your new frames Susan! You look pretty in them. What do you do if you purchase eye glasses on line but need adjustments or later on tightening?
Because of the harsh outdoor temperatures, extreme sun due to altitude, and rapidly changing weather, Transition lenses lose their ability to transition where I live. They just don’t work very well for very long. I’m back to sunglasses and glasses. I get polarized lenses with a dark tint for sun. Much better, but less convenient.
Hey Susan, I know that you are going to Puerto Vallarta soon and I was wondering what activities you’re planning… I am going next week and I don’t want to miss anything!!!
Hi Mary Ann, we haven’t really planned anything. We’ll mostly be spending time with my BIL and SIL, and probably just doing a lot of relaxing on the beach.
I’m 59 (well, 60 in 13 days!) and the opthamologist just told me I have to get rid of my readers. I’ve always had trouble finding sunglasses I like and have no idea on where to start determining what kind of glasses would look good on me. Can anyone direct me to some good sites for considering face shape, skin tone, width and height, and whatever else I need to consider? Thanks so much!
Oh, I will also need progressives so I need to understand if that impacts my choice.
Yes, with progressive lenses the frames/lenses will need to be a certain depth to accommodate the dual prescription. So very small, narrow shapes may not work.
Jan, I have seen the suggestion to go to a high-end optical retailer and “shop” for frames there. Try on and experiment. With the information you gain, you might end up purchasing there, or you might want to see if there are less expensive similar options elsewhere. Hope this suggestion helps!
Hi Jan, I’m going to recommend this blog post from my friend Imogen: https://insideoutstyleblog.com/2014/09/5-essential-factors-to-consider-when-choosing-glasses-frames.html
She covers it pretty comprehensively. But there’s also no substitute for just trying things on and seeing what feels most comfortable and that you like best.
Can I ask where your hoop earrings are from? I’ve been searching for a replacement pair and haven’t found anything quite right, but yours look like they might fit the bill!
Also, the new glasses are great!
Hi Alice, thanks! These earrings are a few years old, but I managed to track down a pair here: https://shopstyle.it/l/bedxm
That is so sweet of you, thank you!!
Timely article Sue! I’ve been looking for a new eyewear shop here in Sarasota, Florida and SEE ticked all the boxes for me!
Love your new glasses.
Many thanks!, Paula
Do you happen to know if SEE accepts vision insurance? They do have very cool styles/colors.
They do and I believe you can get more information online.
Great resources – but don’t forget Costco which often has a small selection of designer frames which differ from store to store. If you see a frame you like, buy it as one may be all they have and the stock changes frequently. One can purchase frames, take them home to try out in different light, etc. and then either return the frames or take them back to the store and order the lenses. I have even purchased frames elsewhere and had the lenses done at Costco as I have found they do an excellent job.
My favorite brand (not available at Costco) is Wissig – a German maker with some 200 different acetates – you essentially design your own frames with one color/pattern for the frame and another for the temples.
SEE is the best! I have bought several pair at my local store in Seattle. Great customer service as well as great design!
I really love those glasses on you. The colour wouldn’t work for me, but today I saw some bordeaux frames (not heavy) that suit me very well. I bought the readers but will take them in when shopping for prescription frames to express what I want. I want them a bit owly but hate heavy masculine frames.
Another idea ( one I got from my twenty something son) is to consider good quality sunglass frames to use for a regular prescription. He was wanting RayBan frames, yes the geeky Buddy Holly type but also on a budget so was checking out Costco and lamenting to the sales associate that they had the right frames but unfortunately only as sunglasses. No problem, they order the prescription lenses to fit the sunglasses frame et voilà my son was very happy. I did the same thing after finding an elegant pair of a Italian sunglasses. They are now my progressives but because I also wear contacts I can recycle my frames as sunglasses. Costco always gives you back the original dark lenses with the purchase so you can have them put them back in when needed .
I have worn RayBan frames for regular glasses and liked them a lot for the fashion and the comfort. My suggestion is to pay close attention to your eyebrow and circles under your eyes (if you have them). The wrong frame can underline the dark circles under the eye and the right frame can hide them. Depending on the lens and its effect on the appearance of the eye, a frame that covers the eye brow can create an illusion of no brows. Since I wear my glasses during all waking hours, I view the cost of the frames as per day and not the initial payment for the frame. It is not the cost of the frame, but how the frame looks and will wear day after day for the next year.
Hi Jo – you are so right on this. The frames I had prior my current Anne and Valentin were cat eye (which I loved) and I think a medium size….I sometimes felt like my eyes were “lost” in them. I love my larger square ones now BUT the bottom of the frame falls slightly below the dark circles under my eyes so feel like the frame emphasizes the dark circles. Realize my next pair need to fall right where the dark circles are or slightly above to hopefully cover them up a bit. I am picky about frames…as you said when you wear them EVERY single day (and spend alot…I need bifocals) they are to be something I really love
Thank you very much for the tip about See. They have a store fairly close to me and I have never heard of them before. I will definitely check them out.
These glasses are perfect for you! As my appointment with the Red Leopard ladies gets closer and closer, my excitement level keeps going up and up. You were so well-dressed before but now there is a glow and a cheekiness I didn’t see before. Can’t wait to see what they do for this old woman. My appointment is the Monday after Easter so maybe I’ll bump into you in London. Hope so!