How to Get Your Specs to Work for You!
Your glasses can make or break your whole look. Get them wrong and they’ll be distracting, sometimes even taking away from all the brilliant things you’ve got to say. Get them right, however, and it’s you that people remember, not your frames.
But how do you know if they’re right or wrong? As an image consultant, I’ve seen how transformative glasses can be for someone’s personal style, so I’ve pulled together my best tips and tricks to help you make a confident choice.
Face Shape and Size
The first thing to consider is your face shape. Your glasses should balance and compliment your features. For example, I have a round face, so I lean towards glasses with angles to create more structure. Someone with more angular features, though, would do well with a softer, rounded frame to balance things out.
Scale is important here and it comes down to your physical frame but also your personality. If you have some dramatic or creative elements to your personality, chances are a larger sized spec will suit you regardless of your physical frame size.
Frame Material
Next, think about the frame material. Glasses come in all sorts of finishes: plastic, metal, titanium, wood, and even glass. Each has its own look and feel.
Some people love the lightness of barely-there frames, while others (like me!) want them to feel sturdy and solid. Before you start shopping, ask yourself what you value more: comfort, durability, uniqueness, or statement? Having this in mind before you even try on a pair can save you a lot of decision fatigue.
Colour Counts
Here’s where colour analysis really comes into its own. The frame colour should complement your skin tone, hair colour, and wardrobe.
Do you want a neutral pair that works with most of your outfits, or are you in the mood for a pop of personality? I used to only buy tortoiseshell frames until I discovered they were far too warm for my Winter palette. Once I started wearing frames in shades that truly suited my colouring, it was a complete game-changer.
If you’ve never had a colour analysis, this is a great moment to invest in one, it will help you feel confident not just in glasses, but in every style choice you make.
Comfort and Fit
Even the most stylish frames will end up gathering dust in a drawer if they don’t feel right. Your optical dispenser should always check that:
They don’t pinch your nose.
They’re not pressing on your temples.
They don’t rest on your cheeks.
They sit at the right height on your face.
Don’t be afraid to speak up if something feels off. Comfort is just as important as style.
Try Before You Buy
This is one purchase where you should never rush. Try on several pairs, look at yourself in the mirror from different angles, and, here’s my top tip, take photos.
Looking at the pictures later can often give you a clearer sense of which pair works best. Your decision doesn’t have to happen in a five-minute fitting room frenzy. Give yourself time to think.
Budget Wisely
Think of glasses as an accessory, just as much as a bag, belt, or watch. In fact, your glasses are likely to be the accessory people notice most.
I know an independent dispenser who always asks her clients: “How many pairs of shoes do you own? And who’s looking at your feet?” Point made! If there’s one area worth investing in, it’s the pair of frames sitting on your face every single day.
Whether you want one timeless pair or a few to rotate like outfits, only you can decide your budget.
Personal Choice Matters Most
At the end of the day, finding the right glasses is all about personal choice. Yes, knowing your colours and style personality will help you make a more informed decision, but the most important thing is that you feel confident and comfortable when you wear them.
If you’d like a little support, I’m always happy to offer advice on choosing glasses—it’s one of my favourite styling conversations to have!
I personally buy my glasses from Marie at Forrest Optical Styling Studio. It’s an independent, female-owned business offering virtual appointments for anyone who can’t make it in person. Marie has decades of experience, a brilliant eye for style, and such a warm personality, you’ll be in very safe hands.
In Summary
Consider your face shape to decide on balance or contrast.
Pick a frame material that suits your style and comfort needs.
Use colour analysis to guide you toward frames that light you up.
Check for comfort and fit before committing.
Always try before you buy—and take photos.
Treat glasses as an investment accessory worth budgeting for.
Your glasses should never wear you, they should highlight your individuality and give you confidence every time you put them on.
Ready to Find Your Perfect Pair?
If you’d like more styling advice, you can explore my blogs, or join me over on Instagram for daily style tips and inspiration.
And if glasses shopping is on your to-do list, I’d love to hear what you’re considering, drop me a message any time.
Love
Lucy x