You can call them ‘glasses,’ ‘spectacles’, ‘specs’ or ‘eyewear,’. Whatever you call them there is nothing else that combines fashion and function so completely as a new pair of glasses.

Glasses do more than just correct vision, they become part of your identity and shape how you are perceived.

With so much on the line, it’s understandable that many people are apprehensive about selecting a new pair of glasses.

To relieve some of that tension, Eyecare Plus has put together this handy guide that hopefully will help you buy the glasses you need to see better – and look better.

The most important thing

Before you can even start your search, the most important thing you need is an up-to-date prescription and a comprehensive eye exam.

An Eyecare Plus exam allows our optometrist to explore your eye health, your lifestyle and your vision needs – all vital information that will guide your search for glasses that will suit you best.

The second-most important thing

Prescription in hand, now it’s time for the second-most important thing to bring with you when choosing frames: an open mind.

In general, people grow comfortable with the type of glasses they have worn in the past and think they are the only style that will work for them.

But the style of frames you choose is never a foregone conclusion. Embrace the ‘try on’ system and allow yourself to be surprised.

There have been thousands of new styles developed since you purchased your last set of frames, and it is also likely that your appearance has changed over the years. Try on new styles, colours, and shapes you’ve never worn before. If you let go of preconceived ideas, you’ll be surprised with what you come up with.

Frame size matters

There is a dizzying array of spectacle frames out there, but it helps to know one secret that will help you get the perfectly fitting pair: your frame size.

There are three little numbers printed on the inside of most frame arms (‘52-17-140’ or something like that). You’ve probably seen them before and thought nothing of them.

These mysterious numbers are the three main measurements in spectacle sizes: eye size, bridge width and arm (temple) length.

• Eye size

The first number is a two-digit number that shows the eye size. This is the horizontal size of the lenses on your frame. That size varies from 40mm to 62 mm.

What the number actually means: the larger the eye size, the larger the frame.

• The bridge size & measurement

The second number is also a two-digit number which shows the bridge width, which is the gap above your nose between the lenses. That number varies from 14mm to 24 mm.

What the number actually means: when the bridge number is too big, the glasses will slide down your nose. If the bridge number is too small, it will pinch your nose.

• The arms (or temples) length

The final, three-digit number is the arm (or temple) length, as measured from frame hinge to the end of the arm. That number varies from 120 mm to 150 mm.

What the number actually means: the larger your head is, the larger this number needs to be to fit comfortably on your face.

As you go through the selection process, consider how each set of frames feels on the bridge of your nose, your brow and the space around your ears. Note the sizes that feel right.

As with shoes, a good rule of thumb for buying new frames is: never sacrifice comfort and fit for style.