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Picking the best frames for your face

By Julie Gordon | jgordon@am-ny.com

December 24, 2007

When you put on a pair of glasses, they aren't just an accessory that compliments your outfit; it's the accessory everyone immediately notices when they approach you.

That's why it's crucial to find frames that are not only stylish, but that suit your face shape, coloring and overall style. Designer Robert Marc explains how.

Which glasses shapes work best with which face shapes?
The key to finding a flattering pair of glasses is to pick a frame shape that contrasts with your face shape to create the right balance of angles and curves. If you don't know what your face shape is, trace the outline of your face in a mirror or photograph. Your face should fall into one of the following categories: oval, round, heart, square. Oval faces can wear any shape, as long as the frame size is in scale and balance for you. If your face is oval but long and thin, choose a deeper and slightly wider frame. Rectangular, angular frames are a great compliment for round faces as they can add structure and definition and also have a slimming effect. For heart faces, a bowtie or almond-shaped frame will create a balanced look. Soft, horizontal frames will work best for square faces, as they

will soften an angled jaw line.

How can you emphasize high cheekbones?
Angular frames with an upsweep along the bottom accentuate the cheekbones and give you an instant face-lift.

What are the most important factors to consider when purchasing glasses?
There are people who spend a lot of money collecting shoes, handbags and jewelry, but only own one pair of glasses that they wear everywhere. Practically speaking, eyewear is the most important and crucial accessory because your face is the first thing people see. In other words, a great pair of glasses has more potential than any other accessory to drastically improve your overall style. Have 20/20 vision? Do as the trendsetters do and get clear, non-prescription lenses.

Just like you wouldn't wear the same pair of shoes to brunch, the beach or to a fancy cocktail party, it is necessary to have a wardrobe of eyewear to have choices to go with every occasion and outfit. The best way to build a wardrobe is to avoid buying frames that look too similar to another one you already own and going slightly beyond your comfort zone to discover a style that is different but still you.

How does face size play into the picture?
Choose frames that are in proportion and balance for you, and keep in mind that even if a certain "look" is popular, it will not work on everyone. For example, large, retro glasses are having a fashion moment, but if you have a small face, don't get a frame too big that it swallows up half your face or slides down your nose. Pay attention to how a frame fits on your face. A good rule of thumb is to find frames where your eyes are vertically centered in the lens and horizontally slightly in from the center.

Is there anyone who cannot or should not wear plastic? Wire? Why?
Anyone can wear plastic or wire frames; the material used in high-end eyewear these days is so technologically advanced that one can find an extraordinary range of colors, textures, finishes and styles in both plastic and metal frames. The bigger issue is frame color.

How can someone have fun with trends while staying office-appropriate?
Eyewear is an accessory that in its very nature exudes professionalism and intelligence. Especially in offices with strict dress codes, eyewear might be the only accessory you can express your personality with. Picking a frame with a classic color on the outside but a bright color or pattern on the inside will allow you to have a little fun while still looking professional.

Which eye colors go best with which frame colors?
As a designer, my philosophy is that eyewear should accentuate and enhance one's features rather than overshadow them. Eye color is extremely important when shopping for glasses, as you want your eyes to be the center of attention. If your eyes are black, brown or hazel, a tortoise frame will bring out the deep, rich color of your eyes. If you have blue eyes, picking a frame with a blue lining will really make those eyes pop. For green eyes, a clear plastic frame will make a statement. By choosing the right color, you will get as many if not more compliments on your eyes as you do on your fabulous glasses.

How about skin tone?
Bright colors such as blond, gold, pink and white are flattering on olive or bronze skin. If you have rosy or fair skin, colors such as deep colors such as black, brown, burgundy and silver are becoming. Tortoise-colored plastic frames come in unlimited shades from light to dark, as well browns and rose tones, which means that anyone can easily find a shade of tortoise that complements their skin tone. Our new topaz, tourmaline and lucite frames are great for all skin tones as they illuminate the face and give off a healthy, youthful glow.

Any other tips?
Always have anti-reflection coating applied to your lenses. This will allow everyone to see your eyes and ensure that you look great in photos.