Are lenses important, even essential, when purchasing a pair of eyeglasses? Sure. Are they the most important factor in getting a pair of glasses? Arguably, yes. Are the frames equally as important, being responsible for the fit, comfort, and fashion statement you are making? I should think so! So don’t let your next, or maybe your first, spectacle shopping experience be a dreaded activity! Get excited, because finding your perfect match (we’re talking eyeglass frames here, not soul mates) should be easier and more fun!
Each style of frame has its pros and cons and it’s up to the wearer to decide which type of frame best suits their needs. In fact, did you know there are several different types of metal and plastic frames? While metal frames are more durable, plastic eyeglass frames remain the most common and budget-friendly. Just like with eyeglass lenses, there is a frame for everybody. What kind of frame you choose can be a matter of preference, budget, resilience and fashion.
Metal Frames
Metal frames are basically the classic in the glasses world, they are like what a Ford Thunderbird is to the car world. They are the most durable. They come in variety of metals, including titanium, flexon, and stainless steel — basically a lot of the elements you were supposed to learn about in that freshman year chemistry class you slept through most days. Don’t worry though, we are going to reteach you the information relevant to eyeglass frames and leave out the rest. Let’s start with titanium frames – they are lightweight, hypoallergenic, and corrosion free.
These frames typically have more options available when it comes to texture, patterns and colors. If you are looking for a frame with the titanium traits we just discussed, but is a little more budget friendly, try a titanium alloy frame. Another great option is flexon, which is considered a memory metal. It is strong, flexible, lightweight and hypoallergenic, perfect for the athlete (or those of us who want to pretend that we are athletes). Last but not least, there are stainless steel frames. These frames are also lightweight and corrosion resistant and great for a budget friendly person.
Plastic Frames
If you are looking to make a fashion statement, while still maintaining your funds, plastic frames are the way to go! They are affordable and come in a variety of styles and colors. Like metal frames, there are numerous types of plastics; whichever one works for you depends on your personality. One of the options that is known for being sturdy and lightweight is zyl. It is both cost-effective and stylish, coming in a variety of colors and shapes. Another option is nylon plastic.
Also lightweight and strong, nylon plastic is virtually unbreakable and; thus, popular among athletes. Unfortunately, though, nylon frames tend to weaken over time due to sun exposure and are only available in darker colors because of its material. Another plastic frame option is acetate – they are hypoallergenic and come in a variety of colors and can really make a bold statement.
Want Another Option?
Are you one of those people that that chooses option C when there are only options A and B? If so, keep reading! There are a few more choices for eyeglass frames outside of the usual metal and plastic selection. If you want to be especially daring and budget is not an issue, try wood or bone eyeglass frames, which are typically handmade and one-of-a-kind pieces. That way, your glasses are just as rare as the Mona Lisa — minus all the copycats and replicas.
Wood and bone frames are less adjustable and more expensive. If you really want to pull out all the stops, you can also accent your frames with 10k gold, sterling silver, semi-precious and precious stones, and crystals! The possibilities are endless. So, why not choose option C? Whatever you chose, be sure your glasses reflect your personality and remember, have fun!
