Buying women’s glasses can be something of a minefield, especially if you’re buying for a friend or partner!
You might think it’s as simple as getting the prescription ready and getting a set of frames, however, there’s more to consider when it comes to picking the right ladies pair.
With a few key considerations, you can find a pair that complements the wearer’s features, and matches both lifestyle and personal style.
This guide focuses on the stylistic and practical elements of choosing glasses, rather than the medical prescription side. Whether you’re updating your look or choosing your first pair, here’s how to select glasses that feel as good as they look.
Know Your Face Shape
Identifying your face shape is one of the best ways to find flattering frames. This helps you understand which styles naturally suit your bone structure.
| Face Shape | Features | Recommended Frames | Frames to Avoid |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oval | Balanced proportions | Almost all styles | None — it’s a versatile shape |
| Round | Soft features, full cheeks | Angular frames (e.g. rectangular, cat-eye) | Circular or overly rounded frames |
| Square | Broad forehead, strong jawline | Round, oval, butterfly, cat-eye | Thick square or boxy shapes |
| Heart | Wide forehead, narrow chin | Cat-eye, oval, upswept styles | Narrow rectangular frames |
| Diamond | Narrow forehead and chin, wide cheekbones | Oval, cat-eye, rimless styles | Square or boxy styles |
| Oblong | Long face, straight cheeks | Deep frames, rectangular, wayfarer | Narrow or short frames |
Not sure of your face shape? Try a face shape detector tool.
Understand Your Personal Style
Glasses are more than a vision aid, they’re a style statement and eyewear impact your looks as much as a haircut (think that favourite pair of sunglasses!)
Ask yourself:
- Do you prefer structured, modern outfits or a more natural, effortless look?
- Do you wear classic neutrals or enjoy bold colours?
- Are your glasses for daily use, work, or occasional wear?
Let your lifestyle and aesthetic guide your choice, you’ll be wearing them often, so comfort and confidence matter.
Match Colours to Your Skin, Hair, and Eyes
The right colour can elevate your look. Use the charts below to find tones that complement your natural colouring.
Skin Tone
| Skin Tone | Ideal Frame Colours |
|---|---|
| Cool (pink/red/blue undertones) | Silver, black, navy, grey, purple, cool browns |
| Warm (yellow/golden undertones) | Gold, bronze, peach, warm browns, amber, olive |
| Neutral | Most colours — experiment with contrast |
Hair Colour
| Hair Colour | Suggested Frame Colours |
|---|---|
| Cool blonde | Grey, tortoiseshell, pink, blue |
| Warm blonde | Coral, peach, amber, forest green |
| Cool brunette | Black, tortoiseshell, cool green |
| Warm brunette | Amber, cream, gold tones |
| Red | Green, bronze, deep reds, tortoiseshell |
| Black | Black, jewel tones, dark tortoiseshell |
| Grey | Bright colours like teal or cherry red |
Eye Colour
| Eye Colour | Complementary Frames |
|---|---|
| Blue | Blue, grey, rich brown |
| Green | Gold, earthy tones, purple |
| Brown/Hazel | Green, copper, warm tones |
| Grey | Bold colours or patterns |
These are just guidelines. Colour theory is flexible so choose what feels like “you”.
Try Before You Buy
Buying glasses online? Still test how they fit and feel:
- Visit a local opticians to try different shapes before you buy.
- Use virtual try-on tools.
- Explore home trial kits where available.
- Always read customer reviews before buying.
- Check for lens features like anti-glare, scratch resistance, or blue light protection.
Look for Range and Reputable Retailers
Good retailers offer:
- Wide variety of styles and materials
- NHS prescription support (check eligibility here)
- Transparent pricing (including lenses)
- Easy returns
- Verified customer feedback
Expert Tip: Think Beyond Looks
Ensure your glasses:
- Sit comfortably on the bridge and behind ears
- Stay level without sliding
- Don’t touch your eyelashes
- Match your lens needs (e.g. small frames for high prescriptions)
Don’t Overlook Lenses & Frame Materials
| Lens Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Anti-Fatigue | Great for screen use and reducing eye strain |
| Blue Light Filtering | Helps protect from digital eye strain and improve sleep |
| Photochromic/Transitions | Adapt to light, turning darker outdoors |
| Progressive | Seamlessly combine distance and reading corrections |
| Anti-Reflective/Scratch-Resistant Coatings | Boost durability and clarity |
| Material | Benefits | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Acetate | Light, flexible, colourful | Can warp in heat |
| Metal | Sleek, durable, hypoallergenic | Nose pads may mark skin |
| Titanium | Ultra-light, strong, corrosion-resistant | More expensive |
| TR90/Plastics | Lightweight and affordable | Less durable feel |
| Wood/Bamboo | Sustainable, stylish | Can’t be adjusted easily |
Sustainability Matters
Look for:
- Recycled acetate or bio-based plastics
- FSC-certified wood frames
- Ocean plastic initiatives
- Minimal packaging and carbon-neutral delivery
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Choosing style over comfort
❌ Skipping lens features
❌ Not measuring PD or bridge width
❌ Buying based on Instagram trends
❌ Ignoring return policies
Final Thoughts
Choosing glasses is personal, and powerful. With the right pair, you’ll improve your style, comfort, and visual clarity every day.
Whether you lean minimalist or bold, use this guide to shop with confidence, and let your glasses reflect who you are.
