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Finding the Perfect Glasses by Size: A Guide to Measurements and Frame Styles

September 15, 2024

Getting Started with Frame Sizing

Finding the perfect glasses starts with understanding the glasses measurements of a pair you already own and feel comfortable wearing. If you’re happy with how your current frames fit, you’re halfway there! The key details you need are likely printed right inside the temple (or arm) of your glasses. These measurements will be your guide to choosing your next pair, ensuring that you get a size that works for both your style and comfort.


When you check inside the arm of your frames, you’ll typically find three numbers separated by dashes, such as 48-19-140. These numbers represent the width of the lenses, the size of the bridge (the part that rests on your nose), and the temple length, which is the length of the arm that wraps around your ears. These are all crucial measurements when selecting glasses that feel just right for you.


Occasionally, there’s a fourth number, which refers to the lens height — another important factor if you want a specific look or style. All these measurements are listed in millimeters, and they’ll help ensure that your next pair of glasses fits perfectly, both in terms of function and fashion. Knowing your frame size means you can focus more on finding a style that makes you look and feel fantastic!


Understanding Frame Size

When it comes to selecting the right pair of eyeglass frames, the numbers inside the temple of your eyeglasses or sunglasses are your best guide. These numbers, listed in millimeters, represent three key measurements: lens width, bridge width, and temple length. Each of these plays a significant role in how your glasses fit and feel throughout the day, making them essential to consider when shopping for a new pair.


Lens width refers to the horizontal span of each lens, while the bridge width measures the distance across the nosepiece, ensuring your glasses sit comfortably on your face. Finally, the temple length is the length of the arms that secure the frames around your ears. Getting familiar with these numbers helps you ensure your glasses offer a perfect fit, striking the right balance between style and comfort.


Lens Width, Bridge Width, and Frame Fit

Lens width refers to the maximum width of the lens, measured from the bridge to the outer edge of the frame. This measurement helps ensure that your lenses fit perfectly within the frame you choose. If you prefer a wider lens, you’ll need to pick a frame style that allows for a broader width, as not all frames can accommodate larger lenses.


Getting the right glasses frames size is essential for ensuring your glasses look proportional to your face. To make sure your glasses fit just right, consider both your face shape and the frame size.


A well-chosen pair of glasses should balance both comfort and style, giving you a fit that feels natural while complementing your look.


Temple Length and Comfort

Temple length refers to the distance from the screw hinge to the end of the temple, including the curve that wraps around your ear. This measurement typically ranges from 120mm to 150mm, with common lengths being 135mm, 140mm, 145mm, and 150mm. If you’ve ever had issues with temples feeling too short or tight, or if you have a narrow bridge, opting for frames with longer lengths, like 145mm or 150mm, can provide a more comfortable fit.


While acetate temples can be adjusted for a more customized fit, it’s still important to choose a length that allows the temples to sit naturally and horizontally on your ears. Getting the right temple length will keep your glasses securely in place while ensuring all-day comfort.


Frame Styles and Face Shapes

Your face shape plays a big role in determining which glasses styles will suit you best. While frame size is primarily about ensuring a comfortable fit, choosing the right style can enhance your natural features and balance your overall look. Different face shapes pair well with different frame styles, so it’s worth considering how the shape of your frames complements your face.


A properly sized frame not only ensures comfort but also helps the glasses look proportional. By taking both your face shape and frame size into account, you can find a pair of glasses that offers the perfect blend of function and fashion, giving you a look that feels tailored to you.

Specialized Frame Sizing

Children’s glasses are specially designed to fit their smaller faces while offering the durability and safety they need. When selecting glasses for kids, it’s important to ensure the frames are not only the correct size but also built to withstand everyday wear and tear.


Lens widths, bridge widths, and temple lengths in children’s glasses are all scaled down to provide a comfortable fit. Ensuring these measurements are accurate is key to making sure the glasses stay in place and provide the right level of support for growing kids.


DIY Frame Sizing

Determining your frame size on your own can be a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you measure your glasses frame size:

  1. Gather Your Tools: You’ll need a ruler or a millimeter ruler to take accurate measurements.
  2. Choose a Reference Frame: Select a pair of glasses that fits you comfortably. This will be your reference frame.
  3. Measure the Lens Width: Measure the horizontal width of the lens, from the center of the nose bridge to the outer edge of the lens. This is usually the first number in the frame measurements (e.g., 48-19-140).
  4. Measure the Bridge Width: Measure the width of the bridge, from the center of the nose bridge to the outer edge of the bridge. This is usually the second number in the frame measurements (e.g., 48-19-140).
  5. Measure the Temple Length: Measure the length of the temple, from the hinge to the outer edge of the temple. This is usually the third number in the frame measurements (e.g., 48-19-140).
  6. Measure the Arm Length: Measure the length of the arm, from the hinge to the outer edge of the arm. This is usually not included in the standard frame measurements, but it can be helpful in determining the overall fit.
  7. Record Your Measurements: Write down your measurements in millimeters. You can use these measurements to compare with frame sizes online or in-store.


By following these steps, you can confidently determine your glasses frame size and ensure a comfortable fit for your next pair of glasses.



Consulting an Optician

Got questions about eye care? At Pro Optical in West Lebanon, NH, we’re here to help! Whether you’re unsure about frame sizing and lens options or just need general advice, our in-house opticians are ready to provide the guidance you need.


Our opticians are highly qualified to offer expert recommendations, ensuring you find the perfect pair of glasses. From fit to style, we’ll help you choose eyewear that complements your needs and preferences, making your experience both simple and enjoyable. Feel free to stop by or schedule a consultation—your eyes are in good hands!


Common Frame-Sizing Mistakes

When checking your glasses for sizing information, it's easy to mistake model or style numbers for important measurements. Ignore any capital letters or numbers that seem unrelated, as these typically indicate the model or frame color—not the size of your glasses.


To accurately determine your size, measure from endpoint to endpoint using a millimeter ruler. If you don’t have a pair of well-fitting frames, you can use a soft measuring tape with millimeter markings to measure across your face. This helps ensure you find a frame size that fits comfortably and looks great.


Measuring Your Glasses

The numbers on your glasses’ arms or bridge usually include details like the frame model, color code, and key measurements. These numbers are listed in millimeters and may appear as something like 55 [] 18 - 145. The frame model number identifies the specific style, while the color code reflects the frame’s color. More importantly, the measurements, such as the bridge size (18) and arm length (145), ensure a comfortable and proper fit.


Visit Your Local Frame Experts at Pro Optical

Finding the perfect frame size means paying attention to key measurements like frame width, temple length, and lens size. These details are essential for ensuring a comfortable fit that looks great on you.


When choosing glasses, be sure to consider both your face shape and the frame size that suits you best. For expert guidance, consult with one of our opticians—they can help you find the perfect pair. 



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