At Tiger Specs we know that choosing the right reading glasses can be a bit of a mine field, especially when we stock such a great range of different shapes and styles of readers.
So this month we thought that we would take a look at how to choose the perfect pair of reading specs.
We will look at everything: shape, style, materials and how to choose based on not only what you think is on trend but also factors such as face shape, hairstyle and of course what occasion the glasses are for.
Understanding Face Shape
When choosing the perfect pair of glasses, face shape plays a key role. Certain frame styles can highlight your best features, bring balance to your proportions or add definition where you want it most. While personal taste always comes first, knowing your face shape can give you a helpful starting point when exploring different styles.
Here’s a quick guide to identifying your face shape and what typically suits each one:
Round Face
Features: Soft curves, equal width and length, rounded chin and cheeks.
Best styles: Angular frames such as rectangular or square shapes help add definition and make the face appear longer and slimmer. Avoid overly round frames, which can exaggerate roundness.
Why not try the super cool Toast range? They come in a range of colours and have all the angular appeal you need to suit a round face.
Oval Face
Features: Balanced proportions, slightly narrower jawline, gently curved chin.
Best styles: Most frame shapes work well with oval faces. Try square, round, cat eye or geometric styles to experiment with your look, just make sure the frames are in proportion to your face.
If you are blessed with an oval face we think that the quirky and cool Patchwork reading glasses. After all pretty much everything suits you!
Square Face
Features: Strong jawline, broad forehead, straight sides.
Best styles: Round or oval frames soften the angularity of square faces. Look for frames with curved lines or thinner rims to add contrast and balance.
One of our favourite styles for someone with a square face is the Oskar range. With its soft curves and range of colours it’s the perfect choice for your angular features.
Heart-Shaped Face
Features: Wider forehead, high cheekbones, narrow chin.
Best styles: Cat eye, round or oval frames complement this shape beautifully. Lighter-coloured or rimless frames can help draw attention away from the forehead and toward the eyes.
Why not consider our Lala range of readers? Stylish, comfortable and perfect for your heart shaped face.
Diamond Face
Features: Narrow forehead and chin, prominent cheekbones.
Best styles: Oval or cat eye frames help soften angular cheekbones and add width to the forehead and jaw. Look for styles that highlight the eyes and upper face.
If you have been blessed with a diamond shaped face we think we have the perfect of reading specs for you.
The Espresso frames are just right.
What to Consider Beyond Face Shape
While face shape is a helpful guide, it’s not the only factor to think about when choosing the perfect pair of glasses. The colour of the frames, your hair and skin tone, your personal style and even how you plan to use your glasses can all play an important role in finding the right fit for you.
Start with Colour
Just as certain clothing shades complement your complexion, so too can glasses frames. People with warmer skin tones – those with golden, peachy or olive undertones – tend to suit colours like tortoiseshell, honey, warm greens and soft reds. Cooler undertones – skin with pink, red or bluish hues – are often best matched with deep jewel tones, navy, silver or black.
If your skin tone is neutral, you’ll likely find that you can pull off both warm and cool shades, which opens up plenty of options.
Hair Colour and Personal Style are Just as Influential
Someone with brightly coloured or bold hair might want to choose glasses that complement or contrast without clashing, while someone with a more neutral tone might opt for a frame that becomes the focal point. And of course, your general style matters too.
Are you more classic and understated? A simple frame in black or brown might be your go-to. Prefer to express yourself through colour and accessories? Try something patterned, geometric or unexpected.
Finally, Think About How You’ll Actually Use Your Glasses.
If you need them primarily for reading, you’ll want something lightweight and comfortable, especially for long stints with a book or newspaper.
For screen use, blue light filtering glasses are worth considering – they help reduce eye strain, may prevent headaches and even support better sleep, especially if you’re working into the evening. For time outdoors, glasses with tinted lenses and full UV protection are a must.
And if you’re simply looking to switch up your look or make a fashion statement, let your imagination lead the way – whether that means going bold with colour or trying out an unusual frame shape.
Ultimately, the right pair of glasses should suit your life as much as your face – practical, comfortable, and an extension of your personal style.
And don’t forget that at Tiger Specs with give you access to the latest in glasses buying tech. Our free Reading Glasses Try on App is available for both Android and IOS phones so that you can see just which glasses from our range suite your face shape and your personal style.