Types of Glasses Frames available at Larry Zunde Optometrists in Bedfordview

Author: Larry Zunde (Optometrist)

Date published: 06 May 2026

Choosing glasses frames is more personal than most people realize in 2026. 

It’s not just about correcting your vision — it’s about finding a pair that feels like you. 

With over 30 years in optometry, I’ve seen firsthand how the right frame can shift someone’s confidence completely.

This guide I wrote covers everything: frame types, materials, shapes, and how to pick what actually works for your face and lifestyle.

Frame Types

Let’s start with Frame Types. Think of frame types as the skeleton or blueprint of your glasses. 

Before worrying about colour or shape, it helps to know what structural options are on the table.

Full Rim

Full rim frames completely surround the lens. 

They’re the most popular choice — and for good reason. 

Durable, secure, and compatible with virtually any prescription strength, including high prescriptions that need thicker lenses.

Semi-Rimless

Semi-rimless frames hold the lens from the top only, secured by a nylon gut at the bottom.

The result? A lighter, airier look that still has structure. Great if you want something less bulky without going fully frameless.

Rimless

No frame at all — just lenses mounted directly to the bridge and temples. 

Rimless glasses are as subtle as eyewear gets. They tend to work best with milder prescriptions and suit people who prefer a barely-there, minimalist aesthetic. High density lenses must be used, which is a bit more expensive.

Low Bridge

Low bridge frames are built for flatter nose bridges — a detail many people don’t even consider until frames keep sliding down. These sit comfortably and put that constant push-up habit to rest.

Wire

Wire frames use thin metal loops to hold the lenses. Lightweight, classic, and understated. They’ve made a serious comeback and work well in both professional and casual settings.

Frame Materials

Next we will look at frame material that affects how your frames feel, how long they last, and how they look. Here’s a plain-English breakdown.

Plastic

Plastic frames — often made from acetate — are versatile, colourful, and accessible. 

A great starting point for anyone trying a bold or patterned frame for the first time. Lightweight and available in a huge range of styles and colours.

Metal

Metal frames offer a cleaner, more refined look. 

Slim, adjustable, and built to last with minimal upkeep. A solid all-rounder for both prescription eyewear and sunglasses. Nose pads are utilised with this type.

Wooden Texture

Wood-effect frames are a real head-turner. They carry a warm, earthy aesthetic that stands apart from standard options. 

Often acetate with a wood-grain finish — striking without being over the top.

Titanium

Titanium is the premium pick. Incredibly lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and hypoallergenic — ideal for people with sensitive skin. 

If you want frames that hold their shape for years, titanium is worth the investment.

Frame Shapes

Lastly, the Frame Shape is the part and where things get personal. The right frame shape should complement your face, not compete with it.

Oval

Softly curved and widely flattering. Oval frames work on most face shapes and give a polished, professional feel without looking stiff or overdone.

Round

Round frames add softness to angular faces. Think vintage, artistic, relaxed. They pair particularly well with square or rectangular face shapes where balance is the goal.

Rectangle

Sharp, defined, and timeless. Rectangular frames add structure to rounder faces and project a confident, no-nonsense presence — popular in professional settings for good reason.

Square

Strong angles, bold lines. Square frames make a statement and work best on oval or heart-shaped faces where the geometry creates contrast rather than competition.

Large

Large frames make an impact. They suit bigger face shapes or anyone whose eyewear should be a conversation starter. In sunglass form, extra coverage is a bonus.

Horn

Horn-rimmed frames have thick, prominent upper edges. They carry a classic, intellectual character that’s been in and out of fashion for decades — currently very much back. Great for adding presence to a face.

Cat Eye

Cat-eye frames angle upward at the outer corners. Playful and feminine by design, they flatter rounder or heart-shaped faces by drawing the eye upward and outward.

Oversized

Bold, confident, and unapologetically glamorous. Oversized frames work especially well as prescription sunglasses and suit oval face shapes in particular.

Geometric

Hexagonal, octagonal, angular cuts — geometric frames are for people who want their eyewear to say something deliberate. They add edge and pair well with minimal, understated outfits.

Browline

Browline frames have thick upper portions that echo the natural brow line. Structured with a retro feel, they’ve held their appeal across generations and work on most face shapes.

How to Choose the Best Frame for You?

Start with your face shape — oval, round, square, heart, or oblong. 

The general rule is simple: contrast your shape. Round face? Go angular. Strong jaw? Try something softer.

After that, think about your lifestyle. Active? You need something durable. 

Office-based? Lightweight and comfortable wins. 

And prescription matters — stronger scripts pair better with full rim frames that disguise lens thickness.

Try before you commit. What looks good on a shelf and what works on your face are often two different things entirely.

Types of Glasses Frames for Men

Men tend to gravitate toward rectangle, square, browline, and wire frames. 

These shapes project confidence and hold up well across professional and casual settings. Titanium and metal materials are a popular pick for their durability and clean finish. 

Rimless styles also appeal to men who prefer eyewear that works quietly in the background.

Types of Glasses Frames for Women

Women have a wider pool of popular styles — from cat-eye and oversized to round and geometric. 

Acetate frames in bold colours, tortoiseshell, and patterns remain consistently in demand. 

Really, the choice comes down to your face shape, personal taste, and occasion. 

Many women keep more than one pair for exactly that reason.

What Frames Can You Get from Larry Zunde Optometrists in Bedfordview?

At Larry Zunde Optometrists, we carry prescription eyewear frames across all the types, materials, and shapes covered in this guide. 

Whether you want something classic and understated — or something that makes people ask where did you get those? — there’s a pair here worth considering.

With over three decades fitting frames for the Bedfordview community, I’m here to help you find what works. 

Not just for your prescription, but for you.

Visit us at 95 Boeing Road East, Bedfordview, or call 011 454 3929 to book your eye exam and frame choice..

About the Author:

Larry Zunde is an optometrist with over 30 years experience at Larry Zunde Optometrists situated in Bedfordview.

His optometric training included an emphasis on eye exams, contact lenses fitting, ocular disease and low vision specialist.

His optometric training also included  working at St. Johns Eye Hospital, part of Baragwanath Academic Hospital, whilst doing his military service.

How Often Should You Update Your Prescription Lenses?

Author: Larry Zunde (Optometrist)

Date published: 20 March 2026

Learn how Often by age you should You Update Your Prescription Lenses?

You squint at your screen. 

You push your glasses up your nose for the fifth time today. 

You’ve been blaming the lighting, the font size, the screen brightness. But here’s the honest truth — it might just be that your prescription needs an update.

You see outdated prescription lenses are one of the most overlooked causes of daily eye strain, persistent headaches, and blurry vision. 

And yet, so many people hold onto their glasses and Frames long after they’ve stopped doing their job properly.

So, how often should you update your prescription lenses?

 The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. But there are clear guidelines that can protect your eyes and genuinely improve your daily quality of life. 

After more than 30 years in optometry here in Bedfordview, I’ve seen firsthand what happens when people delay updating their lenses. Let’s get into it.

General Guidelines: How Often Should You Schedule an Exam?

Lets first start with the basics and that the Eye exam in general as this will guide us to the next steps.

The general rule of thumb is a comprehensive eye exam every one to two years for most adults. 

That’s not an arbitrary number. Vision can shift gradually — so gradually that you may not notice until the problem has compounded.

For children, annual eye exams are especially important. 

Their visual system is still developing, and a missed prescription change can quietly affect learning, concentration, and even behaviour at school. 

For adults over 60, yearly visits are strongly recommended, as the risk of age-related eye conditions like Glaucoma as well as Macular Degeneration, increases significantly.

Think of your eye exam like a car service. You don’t wait until the engine fails. You stick to the schedule so small problems don’t become expensive ones.

Lifespan of Sight: Vision Changes from Ages 20 to 60+

Your prescription is not a fixed thing. It’s a moving target throughout your life, and each decade brings its own changes.

In your 20s, most people have relatively stable vision.

An eye exam every two years is usually sufficient.

That said, myopia — short-sightedness — often progresses in this decade, particularly with rising screen use.

In your 30s, vision tends to stabilise for many people.

But this is also when digital eye strain and dry eye become more common, especially for those working long hours on screens.

In your 40s, presbyopia enters the picture. 

This is the gradual loss of your eye’s ability to focus at near. 

Reading a restaurant menu suddenly becomes an arm-extension workout. 

If you’ve never needed glasses before, this decade may be your first introduction. Annual exams become more valuable here.

From 50 onwards, the pace of change picks up. 

Cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration become real risks. 

By 60 and beyond, yearly exams aren’t just helpful — they’re essential for catching conditions early, before they affect your independence.

Red Flags: Signs Your Current Lenses Are Failing You

Your eyes will tell you when something is off. 

The problem is, life gets busy, and we find ways to adapt instead of address.

Here are the clearest signs your prescription lenses need updating:

• Frequent headaches, especially after reading or prolonged screen time
• Blurry or double vision, even with your glasses on
• Squinting to see clearly at a distance or up close
• Eye fatigue and strain that builds throughout the day
• Difficulty driving at night, including halos or glare around headlights
• Holding objects further away — or closer — to bring them into focus

If you’re ticking more than one or two of these boxes, your current lenses are likely no longer correcting your vision accurately. 

Wearing outdated prescription lenses can be like running a race with a stone in your shoe. 

You can push through, but you’ll pay for it eventually.

Don’t ignore the signs. Your eyes are giving you a clear message.

Lifestyle Factors: When Your Routine Demands a New Prescription lens

Your daily routine plays a bigger role in your visual health than most people realize.

Increased screen time is one of the biggest drivers of prescription changes today.

Extended hours on digital devices place sustained demand on your focusing system. 

Many patients find their prescription shifts more frequently after taking on screen-heavy roles or moving to remote work.

Pregnancy can temporarily alter your vision due to hormonal changes and fluid shifts in the body. Always mention this to your optometrist — it matters more than you think.

Diabetes and high blood pressure are both known to affect your prescription. 

Blood sugar fluctuations cause the lens inside your eye to swell and change shape, making your vision inconsistent. 

If you’ve recently been diagnosed or had changes in your treatment, a prescription check is a good idea.

High-performance sport is another overlooked factor. 

If you play cricket, paddle, or any activity requiring sharp distance vision, precision counts. 

Even a subtle shift in your refractive error can affect your performance — and your safety.

Simply put, if your life has changed significantly — new job, new health status, new demands on your eyes — your prescription may have shifted too.

Your vision is one of your most valuable assets. 

Don’t wait for a crisis to take care of it. A comprehensive eye exam every one to two years — or sooner if something feels off — is one of the best investments you can make.

If you can’t remember when you last had your eyes tested, that’s probably your answer right there.

Book your eye exam at Larry Zunde Optometrists in Bedfordview.

We’ll give your vision the attention it deserves.

📞 011 454 3929 | 95 Boeing Rd East, Bedfordview, Germiston

About the Author:

Larry Zunde is an optometrist with over 30 years experience at Larry Zunde Optometrists situated in Bedfordview.

His optometric training included an emphasis on eye exams, contact lenses fitting, ocular disease and low vision specialist.

His optometric training also included  working at St. Johns Eye Hospital, part of Baragwanath Academic Hospital, whilst doing his military service.

5 Signs You Need to Update Your Spectacle Prescription in 2026

TL;DR / take the Quiz : Headaches, blurry vision, squinting, poor night vision, and eye fatigue are clear signs your glasses prescription may be outdated. Regular eye exams protect clarity, comfort, and long-term eye health.

Take the QUIZ here >>

Author: Larry Zunde (Optometrist)

Date published: 05 January 2026

The 5 Signs It’s Time to Update Your Eye Prescription this new year

1. Frequent Headaches

Think of your eyes as hardworking employees. 

If they’re constantly overworked, they’ll complain—and headaches are their way of filing a grievance. 

When your prescription is outdated, your eyes strain to focus at its best, and the muscles around them tighten. 

That tension builds into dull, persistent headaches.

I once had a patient who swore her headaches were from stress at work. 

After updating her prescription, she came back smiling: “Turns out it wasn’t my boss—it was my old prescription glasses!” 

That’s how powerful the right lenses can be.

2. Blurry or Distorted Vision

Blurry vision is like trying to view an amazing landscape through a foggy window. 

If text looks fuzzy or road signs seem harder to read, your lenses may not match your current prescription. 

Even small changes in eyesight can cause noticeable blur, especially in low light or when switching focus between near and far objects.

Clear vision isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity for safety and confidence.

3. Increased Squinting

“Why are you squinting again?” If you’ve heard this from a friend or family member, it’s a sign worth paying attention to. 

Squinting is your body’s attempt to sharpen focus. 

But while it may help temporarily, it strains your eyes and facial muscles. Over time, this habit leads to discomfort and fatigue.

Squinting should never be your default solution. Glasses are meant to do the heavy lifting for you.

4. Difficulty with Night Vision

Did you know that driving at night becomes more challenging with an outdated prescription. 

Glare from headlights, halos around streetlights, or reduced contrast sensitivity are all warning signs.

One patient described night driving with old lenses as “like being caught in a light show I didn’t sign up for.” 

Once her prescription was updated, those distracting halos disappeared, and she felt safe behind the wheel again.

5. Eye Fatigue and Dryness

If your eyes feel tired, sore, or unusually dry after daily tasks, they may be compensating for an incorrect prescription. 

This fatigue builds gradually, making it easy to overlook until discomfort becomes routine.

Eye strain is common in today’s digital world. But if fatigue persists even after breaks, your glasses likely need updating.

When to Update Your Glasses Prescription?

The best time to update is when you notice any of the signs above—or if it’s been more than a year since your last comprehensive eye exam. 

Vision changes are often subtle, but waiting too long impacts productivity, safety, and comfort.

Optometrists recommend annual checkups for most adults. 

Children and seniors may need more frequent updates.

How Often Does Your Prescription Glasses Change?

For most adults, prescriptions change every 1–2 years. 

View our Full post here on how often you should update your prescription lenses.

Children and older adults may require updates more frequently due to faster shifts in eye health. Lifestyle factors—like increased screen use or medical conditions such as diabetes—can also accelerate changes.

Regular monitoring helps catch these changes early.

Getting Used to New Prescription Glasses?

So you have gotten your brand NEW pair of prescription lenses and just like most things in life, adjusting to them can take a few days to two weeks. 

During this period, your brain and eyes recalibrate to the updated prescription. 

Experiencing mild dizziness or depth perception changes in this adjustment period is normal.

If discomfort persists beyond two weeks, consult your optometrist. 

Proper fitting and lens quality make adaptation smoother.

The Importance of Regular Eye Exams in Updating Your Glasses Prescription

Comprehensive eye exams are about more than sharper vision—they safeguard overall health. 

Optometrists can detect early signs of conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, or macular degeneration.

Routine exams confirm your prescription is accurate, pressures are normal and your eye is healthy. Prevention is always better than cure.

Benefits of Upgrading Your Prescription Glasses in 2026

Modern lenses in 2026 offer more than clarity. Upgrades include:

• Blue-light filtering for digital comfort.
• Lightweight, durable materials for everyday wear.
• Advanced coatings that resist scratches, glare, and smudges.
• Stylish designs that combine fashion with function.

Updating your prescription means you’re seeing better and protecting your eyes with the latest technology.

What Happens During a Prescription Lenses Upgrade Check at Larry Zunde Optometrists in Bedfordview?

At Larry Zunde Optometrists, the process is straightforward and a breeze:

• Step 1: A comprehensive eye exam to measure your current vision.
• Step 2: Discussion of lifestyle needs—whether you drive often, spend hours on screens, or enjoy outdoor sports.
• Step 3: Lens recommendations matched to your prescription and daily habits.
• Step 4: Fitting and adjustment to guarantee comfort and accuracy.
• Step 5: New Glasses Frames try on to see what suits you best.

The goal is simple: to give you lenses that match your life, not just your eyes.

Give us a CALL to schedule your prescription lenses update

Updating your glasses prescription isn’t just about sharper vision—it’s about comfort, safety, and long-term eye health. 

If you’ve noticed headaches, blurry vision, or night-driving struggles, don’t wait.

Book your next eye exam and enjoy the clarity you deserve at 011 454-3929

———————–

About the Author:

Larry Zunde is an optometrist with over 30 years experience at Larry Zunde Optometrists situated in Bedfordview.

His optometric training included an emphasis on eye exams, contact lenses fitting, ocular disease and low vision specialist. His optometric training also included  working at St. Johns Eye Hospital, part of Baragwanath Academic Hospital, whilst doing his military service.

Seven Types of Lens Coatings to Consider before Buying your next pair of prescription glasses

image source

Author: Larry Zunde (Optometrist)

Date published: 24 June 2025

If you are about to purchase your next pair of prescription lenses, it pays to know that not all are created equal.

You see when it comes to choosing your next pair of glasses or updating your prescription glasses, there’s more to think about than just the frame. Lens coatings play a big role in how your glasses look, feel, and perform. 

From reducing glare to protecting your eyes from UV damage, here are seven types of coatings worth knowing about along with some pros and cons of each.

1. Anti-Reflective (AR) Coating

Also known as anti-glare coating, AR is a must-have for anyone who spends time in front of screens or behind the wheel at night. 

It helps eliminate harsh reflections from both the front and back of your lenses, making your vision clearer and your lenses almost invisible to others. This coating improves contrast and makes eye contact easier—great for both your function and fashion.

It’s especially beneficial for high-index, polycarbonate, or aspheric lenses, which naturally reflect more light. Whether you’re taking Zoom calls or night driving, this coating reduces halo effects and light flares for a much more comfortable experience.

Pro: Significantly reduces glare and reflections for clearer vision and better aesthetics.
Con: Can smudge easily and requires regular cleaning to stay clear.

2. Scratch-Resistant Coating

Scratches may not affect the structure of your lenses, but they can definitely interfere with how well you see—and they’re annoying. A scratch-resistant coating gives your lenses a tougher surface, helping to guard against everyday mishaps like dropping your glasses or cleaning them with the wrong cloth.

Most modern lenses, including high-index, polycarbonate, and Trivex, come with this coating built in. It’s especially important for kids’ eyewear, which often takes more of a beating. 

While it won’t make lenses scratch-proof, it gives you a fighting chance against scuffs and scrapes.

Pro: Greatly improves lens durability and keeps vision clear for longer.
Con: Won’t prevent all scratches, especially deep ones caused by accidents.

image source

3. UV Coating

You wouldn’t go out in the sun without sunscreen—so why expose your precious eyes to UV rays without some level of protection?

UV coating blocks 100% of harmful UVA and UVB rays that can contribute to long-term eye damage like cataracts and macular degeneration.

Thankfully, most high-index plastic lenses and many sunglasses come with UV protection built in. 

However, standard plastic (CR-39) lenses usually need a special UV-blocking coating added, so it’s worth checking before you buy. This coating is invisible but powerful, giving your eyes the protection they deserve.

Pro: Shields your eyes from harmful sun exposure that can lead to serious eye conditions.
Con: Not always included in cheaper lenses—must request it if choosing CR-39 plastic.

image source

4. Photochromic Treatment

Wish your glasses could adapt like sunglasses when you step outside? Photochromic lenses do exactly that. Also known by brand names like Transitions, these lenses darken in sunlight and lighten indoors, offering convenient protection from glare and UV rays without switching between two pairs of glasses.

They’re great for people with light sensitivity or those who want the flexibility of one pair of specs that does it all. 

Available in most lens materials, photochromic lenses are practical and stylish—but keep in mind that they may not darken fully inside cars due to UV-blocking windshields.

Pro: Offers a convenient all-in-one solution that adapts to changing light.
Con: Doesn’t darken fully inside most cars due to limited UV exposure.

5. Anti-Fog Coating

We know that few things are more irritating than foggy lenses. 

Whether it’s wintertime or you’re just stepping out of the gym, fogged-up glasses can be a real nuisance. 

Anti-fog coatings help keep your vision clear by preventing moisture condensation on the lens surface.

This is especially useful for people who wear masks, work in humid environments, or play sports. While some anti-fog solutions come in the form of wipes or sprays, newer coatings are embedded into the lens, offering long-lasting fog resistance without extra maintenance.

Pro: Keeps your lenses clear in all types of weather or during workouts.
Con: Permanent anti-fog coatings may not be available with all lens types.

6. Tinted Lenses

Tinted lenses aren’t just a fashion statement—they can actually help your vision in specific situations. Yellow or amber tints may improve contrast in low-light or hazy conditions, while grey tints are ideal for outdoor use since they reduce brightness without distorting color.

Tints also come in a range of cosmetic colors to suit your personal style. More importantly, specially designed tints can reduce eye strain caused by long hours at the computer, helping with what’s known as Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS). Whether for sport, style, or screen time, there’s likely a tint that fits your needs.

Pro: Enhances contrast, reduces brightness, and adds personal flair.
Con: May not be ideal for all lighting conditions—some tints can distort colors.

7. Mirror Coating

Want to add a bold, reflective finish to your lenses? Mirror coatings not only look cool, but they also help reflect more light, making them popular for sunglasses, especially in bright outdoor settings like beaches or ski slopes.

These coatings come in fun metallic shades like silver, gold, and blue, and are usually applied over a tinted lens. Besides the aesthetic appeal, mirror coatings reduce glare and increase privacy by hiding your eyes.

Keep in mind, though, they scratch more easily than other coatings and may need extra care.

Pro: Looks stylish and helps reduce glare in very bright conditions.
Con: More prone to scratches and requires gentle handling.

If you’re unsure which lens coatings are right for you, your optometrist can help guide you based on your lifestyle and vision needs. 

Remember—great lenses are more than just prescriptions; they’re about performance, protection, and personal comfort.

Also you have the option of combining any of the above for further eye comfort.

About the Author:

Larry Zunde is an optometrist with over 30 years experience at Larry Zunde Optometrists situated in Bedfordview.

His optometric training included an emphasis on eye exams, contact lenses fitting, ocular disease and low vision specialist. His optometric training also included  working at St. Johns Eye Hospital, part of Baragwanath Academic Hospital, whilst doing his military service.

3 Tips to choosing the best Glasses for your face shape

By Larry Zunde (Optometrist)

Choosing the right pair of glasses is like finding the perfect pair of pants —it can make all the difference in how you feel and look.
With over 30 years as an optometrist,  I’ve seen the magic that happens when someone finds their perfect match of frames for their face shape. Let’s dive into the world of face shapes and discover help you answer the question: What are the best glasses for my face shape?

Lets identifying Your Face Shape

First things first, you need to know your face shape. It’s like knowing your body type before shopping for new clothes. So to sum up , the 5 basic or main face shapes are:

• Round
• Oval
• Square
• Heart
• Diamond

Each face shape mentioned above has its own unique features and look, and so finding the right frames can highlight your best features, and this is our main goal at the end of the day along with making you feel comfortable.

Best glasses for Round Faces

Round faces are all about soft curves with similar width and height. Our goal here is to add some definition and elongation, so your frame complements the shape of your face.

Recommended Frames:

Rectangular Frames: These add structure and length to your face. Think of them as a sharp suit that adds instant polish.
Angular Frames: Sharp angles can do a great job to give some contrast to the softness of your face.
Cat-Eye Frames: These types of frames will lift your features and add a touch of vintage chic.

Avoid:
Round Frames: They can make your face look even rounder and this is something we must try to avoid.

Glasses for Oval Faces

Next on our list are oval faces. They are well-proportioned with high cheekbones and a slightly narrower forehead and jawline. This shape is the universal donor of the eyewear world—most styles look great and it’s tough to go wrong if you’re fortunate to have this face type.

Recommended Frames for oval faces:

Wide Frames: They enhance the natural balance of your face.
Geometric Shapes: These add interesting angles and make your features stand out.
Oversized Frames: Ready to make a bold statement? This will work well and without overwhelming your face.

Avoid:
Frames Too Large or Small: They can throw off your natural harmony.

When selecting frames for oval face types, there is no real right or wrong. It’s like having a blank canvas—you can experiment with different styles and shapes until you find something that makes you look and feel great.

Glasses for Square Faces

Square faces have strong jawlines, broad foreheads, and angular features. Our goal here is to soften those angles and add some curves as this will give you that amazing balance to your look.

Recommended Frames:

Round Frames: They soften sharp angles and add a gentle contrast.
Oval Frames: These frames create a harmonious look and balance out the angular features.
Cat-Eye Frames: They lift and soften the jawline, adding a touch of playfulness.
Avoid:

Angular Frames: They can make your face look too square and we would want to avoid this.

A patient that came in with a square face found her perfect pair in a round frame that softened her features and made her eyes stand out. The before and after look was something special

Glasses for Heart-Shaped Faces

Heart-shaped faces have a broad forehead, a narrow chin line and high cheekbones. Our objective to make you look awesome is to balance the width of the forehead with your narrow chin.

Recommended Frames:

Bottom-Heavy Frames: These frames work well to add width to the lower part of your face, balancing out the top.
Oval Frames: They balance proportions and soften the overall look.
Light-Colored Frames: These minimize the width of your forehead.
Avoid:
Top-Heavy Frames: They can make your forehead look even wider.

Glasses for diamond face shape

Diamond faces have narrow foreheads and chins with wide cheekbones. So our end goal is to highlight your eyes and soften your cheekbones.

Recommended Frames:

Oval Frames: They balance the cheekbones and may add some curves.
Cat-Eye Frames: These highlight the eyes and soften the cheekbones.
Rimless Frames: A newer look these days and they can emphasize your natural features without adding extra width.
Avoid:
Narrow Frames: They can make your face look longer.

6 Tips for Choosing the Right Glasses and Frames

Now that you have a greater understanding of the best frames for each face type along with what to avoid, the other half of the puzzle is to take a step back and consider outside factors. Below are 5 tips you should also look at and this will help you to nail down your final decision.

Comfort is Key: Frames must be comfortable for long periods. No one wants to adjust their glasses constantly.
What’s Lifestyle like?: Frames should fit your daily activities, whether for work, sports, or casual wear.
Colour is vital as well: Choose colors that complement your skin tone and personal style.
Lens Type and Quality: Prioritize high-quality prescription lenses for specific vision needs such as multifocal and anti glare if you spend a lot of time in front of the screen.
Select the Right Frame Material: Frames come in various materials like plastic, metal, titanium, and acetate. Consider durability, weight, and flexibility when making your final decision
Updated Prescription: Make sure that your new frames can accommodate your latest prescription.

Over to you

Selecting the right glasses can enhance your appearance and boost your confidence.

With over three decades of experience, I’ve seen firsthand how the perfect pair of glasses can transform someone’s look.

Knowledge is key and so by understanding your face shape and following some of these tips, you can find frames that not only improve your vision but also complement your style.

At the end of the day always remember that the best glasses are those that make you feel comfortable and confident. Book your eye exam today and let the frame hunting begin!

About the author 

Larry Zunde Optometrists have been serving patients in Bedfordview for over 15 years. His practice is made up of highly skilled medical professionals who deeply value your eye health and well being. Upon arrival, you will find a clean environment, as well as pleasant staff that will assist you in the best way possible. Ensuring you receive top quality eye care in Bedfordview, Johannesburg is non negotiable. Our team of trusty optometrists in Bedfordview are readily available to attend to your eyewear, eye care needs as well as possible eye disease detection. We offer services such as full vision tests , contact lens fittings, eyeglass repairs as well as drivers license screening.

View author page here>>

How to Adjust to Your First Pair of Glasses?

By Larry Zunde (Optometrist in Bedfordview) – Date: 12 June 2024 – Updated: 19 March 2026

Getting your first pair of glasses after your eye exam is a big step for you and your eye health.

It can be both exciting and a bit challenging. Whether you’re  nearsighted, farsighted,, astigmatic, or updating to new prescription lenses, this article will help you adjust smoothly.

Understanding the Basics

Eye Glasses help correct your vision by focusing light  on the retina.

This makes everything sharper and clearer.

With over 30 years in optometry, I’ve seen how a good pair of glasses can change lives as well as help young kids perform better in school.

The First Few Days

When you first put on your new glasses, things might feel a bit strange.

You could experience headaches, feel the floor is at the wrong level  or feel pressure on your nose and ears.

This is normal as your eyes adjust.

Tips for Easing the Transition to new glasses / lenses:

• Wear Them Consistently: Think of your glasses like a new pair of shoes. Wear them every day to get used to them. 
• Take Breaks: If you feel tired, take them off for a few minutes. Let your eyes rest, then put them back on.
• Stay Positive: Remember, the discomfort will not last long and this is only temporary. Sooner or later, your vision will be clearer and more comfortable.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Just like taking care of your brand new iPhone when you get it, taking care of your glasses is also important for keeping your vision clear and your glasses in good shape as well as for health reasons. 

Steps for Maintenance:

• Clean Regularly: Use a microfiber cloth and lens cleaner every day. Avoid using  rough fabrics or materials that can scratch the lenses.
• Store Properly: Keep your glasses in a hard case when not in use. This helps prevent scratches and damage.
• Handle with Care: It is important not to place your glasses with the lens-side facing down as this can lead to scratches. Use both hands to put them on or take them off to prevent bending the frames.

Addressing Common Issues you may encounter for the first few weeks

You might run into some common problems the first few weeks and this is totally normal.

Knowing what to expect can help you handle these issues better and make this transition much easier.

Common Issues:

• Distorted Vision: At first, objects might look bent or curved. This usually goes away within a week.
• Peripheral Vision: Changes in your side vision are normal. Your eyes need time to adjust to your new glasses and prescription lenses
• Nose and Ear Discomfort: Make sure your glasses fit well. If they’re too tight or loose, visit your optometrist for custom adjustments.

Long-Term Adaptation

Most people get used to their new glasses within a week or two, but full adjustment can take up to a month. It’s vital to remain patient and carry on wearing your glasses.

Other Articles:

• 3 Tips to choosing the best glasses for your face shape
• Back to school eye exams and why its so important

Tips for Long-Term Success:

• Regular Check-ups: Schedule regular eye exams with your local optometrist to keep your prescription up-to-date. Vision can change over time, so it’s important to update your lenses when needed.
• Explore Options: If discomfort continues, discuss it with your optometrist. Different frames or lens types might help.
• Welcome this change with open arms: Think of your glasses as a positive addition to your life. They improve your quality of life by providing clear vision.
  • From making everyday task easier to improving your vision in sports, there are many benefits that comes with vision correction.

Enhancing Your Experience

To make wearing glasses more enjoyable, we suggest the following:

Consider These Options:

• Fashion Statement: Choose frames that showcase your personality and style. From round frames for square faces to square frames for round faces, there is something for everyone.
• Lens Enhancements: Consider lenses with anti-reflective coating, blue light filtering, or photochromic features that adjust to different lighting conditions.
• Comfort Features: Look for lightweight materials  for a better long term fit.

A Personal Note from my experience as an optometrist with 30 years experience. 

In my years of practice and experience, I’ve seen how the right pair of glasses can help individuals greatly. 

One memorable moment was when a young patient saw clearly for the first time. His eyes lit up, and was filled with joy. 

These experiences fuel my passion for eye care.

Every patient’s journey is special, and seeing their joy as they adapt to their new glasses is incredibly rewarding.

Conclusion

Adjusting to your first pair of glasses involves patience and care.

By understanding the process and taking the necessary steps, you can make this transition smoothly. Embrace your new look and enjoy the clear, crisp vision your glasses provide.

With time, wearing glasses will become a natural and comfortable part of your daily life.

Remember, you’re not alone in this experience, and with the right guidance, you’ll adapt wonderfully.

About the Author

Larry Zunde Optometrists have been serving patients in Bedfordview for over 30 years. His practice is made up of highly skilled medical professionals who deeply value your eye health and well being. Upon arrival, you will find a clean environment, as well as pleasant staff that will assist you in the best way possible. Ensuring you receive top quality eye care in Bedfordview, Johannesburg is non negotiable. Our team of trusty optometrists in Bedfordview are readily available to attend to your eyewear, eye care needs as well as possible eye disease detection. We offer services such as full vision tests , contact lens fittings, eyeglass repairs as well as drivers license screening.

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