5 Essentials for Buying Glasses Online

1. Frame Width

The width of your glasses is one of the first things you’ll notice when trying on a new pair. Measured from hinge to hinge, it typically ranges between 125 mm and 150 mm. Ideally, your frame should be about the same width as your face at the temples. Frames that are too wide can make your eyes sit off-centre in the lenses.

2. Lens Width

The overall frame width usually isn’t marked on your glasses, but you will find three key measurements printed on the inside of the temple arm. If you check an old pair, you’ll spot a set of numbers 44 22-145. These numbers represent the lens width, bridge width, and temple length, in that order.

3. Bridge Width

The second number printed on the inside of the temple arm is the bridge width, which measures the distance between the two lenses. This measurement is important for both comfort and fit. If the bridge is too narrow the frame can pinch your nose, leading to discomfort, redness, or even headaches.

4. Temple Length

The temple, or temple arm, is the part of your glasses that extends from the frame front to wrap around the back of your ear. It’s typically the last number in the sequence printed on the inside of the temple arm. Getting the right temple length is important for a secure, comfortable fit.

5. Face Shape

Once you’ve sorted out your frame measurements, you’re well on your way to finding a great-fitting pair of glasses. However, there’s one more factor to keep in mind your face shape. Different frame styles tend to complement certain face shapes better than others, so it’s helpful to have a general idea of your face.

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