Properly fitting sunglasses enhance your style and provide vital protection for your eyes. Finding the right size and shape for your face is crucial to ensure comfort, functionality, and optimal eye care. In this article, I will guide you through the process of sizing sunglasses like a pro, from understanding frame measurements and determining your face shape to choosing the perfect style and assessing fit. Whether lounging by the pool or hitting the slopes, these expert tips will help you master the art of sizing sunglasses.

Why Proper Sizing of Sunglasses is Important

Sunglasses serve a dual purpose: they shield your eyes from harmful UV rays and enhance your visual experience. However, if your sunglasses don't fit properly, they can cause discomfort and provide inadequate protection. Ill-fitting sunglasses can also slide down your nose or dig into your temples, causing distractions and reducing effectiveness.

How To Size Sunglasses To Your Unique Face

Understanding Sunglasses Frame Measurements

When it comes to learning how to size sunglasses, understanding frame measurements is essential. Most sunglasses are labeled with three measurements: lens width, bridge width, and temple length. Lens width refers to the width of each lens, and bridge width is the distance between the lenses, and temple length is the length of the arms that extend from the frame to the back of your ears.

Measure your face using a ruler or tape to find the correct frame size. The lens width is usually the first number in the frame measurement. Measure the width of your eye horizontally, from the outer edge of one eye to the outer edge of the other. This measurement should be similar to the lens width for a comfortable fit.

Next, measure the bridge width by placing the ruler or tape at the top of your nose, where your sunglasses rest. Measure the distance between your eyes, making sure the measurement aligns with the bridge width of the sunglasses you're considering.

Finally, measure your temple length by placing the ruler or tape measure at the side of your head, just above your ear. Measure the distance from that point to the back of your ear. This measurement should match the temple length of your desired sunglasses.

Determining Your Face Shape

Knowing your face shape is crucial for finding the perfect sunglasses. Different face shapes suit different sunglass styles, and understanding your face shape will help you narrow down your options. There are generally six face shapes: oval, round, square, heart, diamond, and oblong.

Stand before a mirror and pull your hair back to determine your face shape. Take note of the broadest part of your face and compare it to the following descriptions:

• Oval Face: An oval face is longer than wide, with balanced proportions and gently rounded features. Oval faces are versatile and can be worn in almost any sunglass style.
• Round Face: Round faces have soft, circular contours with equal width and length. To add definition, opt for sunglasses with angular frames and sharp lines.
• Square Face: Square faces have strong jawlines, equally broad foreheads, and jawbones. Choose sunglasses with round or oval frames to soften your features.
• Heart Face: Heart-shaped faces have broad foreheads and narrow chins. Sunglasses with wider lower edges or aviator styles can help balance your face proportions.
• Diamond Face: Diamond faces have narrow foreheads and chins with wide cheekbones. Look for sunglasses with distinctive brow lines or cat-eye shapes to accentuate your cheekbones.
• Oblong Face: Oblong faces have long, narrow proportions with a straight cheek line. Wide, oversized frames or square-shaped sunglasses can add width to your face.

By identifying your face shape, you can narrow down the sunglass styles that complement your features and enhance your overall look.

How to Size Sunglasses for Your Face Shape

Once you've determined your face shape, it's time to explore the sunglass styles that will flatter your features. Here are some recommendations for each face shape:

Oval Face: Lucky you! You can pull off almost any sunglass style with an oval face shape. Experiment with different shapes, sizes, and designs to find your perfect match.

Round Face: To add angles and definition to your round face, opt for sunglasses with geometric frames, such as square or rectangular shapes. Avoid circular frames that can emphasize the roundness.

Square Face: Soften your strong jawline with round or oval frames. Cat-eye or butterfly-shaped sunglasses can also add a touch of femininity to your square face shape.

Heart Face: Balance your broad forehead and narrow chin with sunglasses that have wider lower edges, such as aviator or butterfly styles. Rimless frames can also create a light and airy look.

Diamond Face: Emphasize your cheekbones with sunglasses with distinctive brow lines, such as cat-eye or retro square frames. Oval-shaped sunglasses can also complement your features.

Oblong Face: Add width to your face with oversized frames or sunglasses with square or rectangular shapes. Avoid narrow frames that can make your face look even longer.

Remember, these are just guidelines, and personal style should always come into play when choosing sunglasses. Trying on different styles will give you a better idea of what suits you best.

How to Measure Your Pupillary Distance (PD)

Pupillary distance (PD) is the distance between the centers of your pupils. This measurement is crucial when ordering sunglasses online, as it ensures that the optical centers of the lenses align with your eyes.

To measure your PD, follow these steps:

1. Stand before a mirror with a ruler or a millimeter tape measure.
2. Hold the ruler horizontally against your brow line, with the zero mark at the center of your right pupil.
3. Look straight ahead and measure the distance from the center of your right pupil to the center of your left pupil.
4. Repeat the measurement a couple of times to ensure accuracy.

Make a note of your PD measurement and use it when shopping for sunglasses online. Getting this measurement right is essential to ensure optimal vision and comfort.

Tips for Finding the Right Sunglasses for Your Nose Bridge

The size and shape of your nose bridge play a significant role in finding sunglasses that fit comfortably. Here are some tips to consider when selecting sunglasses for your nose bridge:

• Wide Nose Bridge: If you have a wider nose bridge, look for sunglasses with adjustable nose pads. These pads allow you to customize the fit and prevent the sunglasses from sliding down.
• Narrow Nose Bridge: Opt for sunglasses with a keyhole bridge or a saddle bridge for a narrow nose bridge. These designs distribute weight evenly and provide a secure fit.
• Low Nose Bridge: If you have a low nose bridge, choose sunglasses with a high bridge or adjustable nose pads. These features can help lift the sunglasses and prevent them from resting on your cheeks.
• High Nose Bridge: Sunglasses with a low bridge or no bridge at all can accommodate a higher nose bridge. Look for styles that sit comfortably without putting pressure on the bridge of your nose.

Try different sunglasses to see how they sit on your nose bridge. Comfort is critical when it comes to finding the perfect fit.

Trying on Sunglasses and Assessing Fit

Once you have determined the right size, shape, and style for your sunglasses, it's time to try them on and assess their fit. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Try Before You Buy: Whenever possible, try on sunglasses before purchasing. This allows you to assess their fit, comfort, and overall appearance.
• Check for Proper Coverage: Sunglasses should cover your eyes entirely and extend to the sides of your face. This ensures maximum protection from UV rays.
• Check for Proper Alignment: The arms of the sunglasses should rest comfortably on your temples without pressing too tightly. The lenses should be aligned with your eyes for optimal vision.
• Check for Stability: Move your head up, down, and side to side to test the stability of the sunglasses. They should stay in place without sliding or bouncing.
• Check for Comfort: Pay attention to any pressure points or discomfort. Sunglasses should feel secure and comfortable, even after extended wear.

By carefully assessing the fit of sunglasses, you can ensure that they look great and provide the necessary protection for your eyes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Sizing Sunglasses

When sizing sunglasses, there are some common mistakes that people often make. By avoiding these pitfalls, you can save yourself from discomfort and ensure a proper fit:

• Choosing the Wrong Frame Size: Selecting sunglasses that are too small or too large for your face can cause discomfort and reduce their effectiveness. Always refer to frame measurements and try on different sizes before deciding.
• Ignoring Face Shape: Different face shapes suit different sunglass styles. Missing your face shape can result in unflattering sunglasses that don't complement your features.
• Neglecting Pupillary Distance: Pupillary distance is crucial for ordering sunglasses online. Neglecting this measurement can lead to poor optical alignment and discomfort.
• Overlooking Nose Bridge Fit: The size and shape of your nose bridge should be considered when choosing sunglasses. Neglecting this aspect can result in sunglasses constantly sliding down or pinching your nose.
• Prioritizing Style Over Function: While style is essential, remember the primary purpose of sunglasses: to protect your eyes from UV rays. Ensure that the sunglasses you choose provide adequate UV protection.

You can ensure a comfortable fit and optimal eye care by avoiding these common mistakes.

The Importance of UV Protection in Sunglasses

Protecting your eyes from harmful UV rays is essential for maintaining good eye health. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation can lead to various eye conditions, including cataracts, macular degeneration, and eye cancer. When choosing sunglasses, looking for those that provide 100% UV protection is essential.

UV protection is achieved through the use of special coatings on the lenses. These coatings block UVA and UVB rays, the two types of UV radiation that can harm your eyes. When purchasing sunglasses, check for labels or markings indicating the UV protection level they provide.

Remember, darker lenses do not necessarily offer better UV protection. The level of UV protection is determined by the coating applied to the lenses, not the color or darkness of the lenses. Always prioritize sunglasses that offer 100% UV protection to safeguard your eyes.

Final Tips for Finding the Perfect Sunglasses Fit

Sizing sunglasses may seem daunting, but with these expert tips, you can master the art with confidence. Remember the following key points when searching for the perfect sunglasses fit:

1. Understand frame measurements and measure your face accurately.
2. Determine your face shape to guide your sunglass style choices.
3. Measure your pupillary distance (PD) for optimal optical alignment.
4. Consider your nose bridge shape and choose sunglasses that fit comfortably.
5. Try on sunglasses and assess their fit, coverage, alignment, stability, and comfort.
6. Avoid common sizing mistakes, such as choosing the wrong frame size or neglecting UV protection.
7. Prioritize sunglasses that offer 100% UV protection to safeguard your eyes.

By following these tips, you can find sunglasses that enhance your style and provide the necessary protection for your eyes. So, go ahead and master the art of sizing sunglasses—you'll be ready to rock any outdoor adventure with confidence and style!

Shop our wide range of sunglasses at BullTru.com and find your perfect fit today!