Stylish Reading Glasses: How to Pick a Fashionable Pair That Still Works

Reading glasses do not have to look dull. Today there are fashionable, designer-look and cool options in every shape and colour. But a stylish pair that does not work for your eyes will end up in a drawer. Here is how to get both.

Step 1: Get the power right first

No frame looks good if it gives you a headache. Reading power depends on your eyes, and it should not be guessed from your age. If you have not had an eye test for a while, get one first. Ready-made readers use the same power in both eyes, so if your eyes differ, a made-to-measure pair is more comfortable. Read what reading glasses power numbers mean and the reading glasses range.

Step 2: Pick a shape that suits your face

• Round face: rectangle or square frames add structure.
• Square face: round or oval frames soften the jaw.
• Oval face: most shapes work, so choose the one you like.

See frame shapes explained and our face shape guide.

Step 3: Choose the look

• Clear or transparent frames: light, modern and easy with any outfit.
• Tortoise (brown patterns): warm and classic.
• Slim metal: neat and professional.
• Bold colours: a quick way to show your own style.
• Thicker frames: a statement look, but a little heavier.

Step 4: Check fit and comfort

Reading glasses sit on your nose for long stretches. Check the weight, the nose pads and the temple length. Look inside the temple for the size numbers and compare them to a pair that fits you. See the frame size guide. Lighter materials like TR90 are comfortable for long reading. See frame materials compared.

For women and for men

Choose by fit and look, not by label. See our pages for women's reading glasses and men's reading glasses. For more help on buying, see how to choose frames, power and lenses.

Last: the lens

If you read on a phone or laptop, you may want a blue cut lens. It costs ₹350 per pair here. A hard coat lens is ₹250. See how to choose lenses.

This article is general information, not medical advice. For persistent symptoms or any sudden change in your vision, see an eye-care professional.