After posting about my new vintage eye wear the other day, a fellow blogger and friend of mine asked me how to measure vintage frames. She wears modern frames and wants a vintage pair but in many cases the frames she buys (particularly online) are too big or too small. Being able to decipher all those numbers can be tricky but I have found an AMAZING website that will help you determine your correct size!
http://optometristattic.com/measure.htm
I buy most of my frames online (Etsy and eBay). I occasionally find frames at various flea markets, antique malls, and at events like Viva (Allyn Scura is pure cat eye heaven). After wearing vintage glasses for 15 years, I am familiar with my measurements. However, if you are not sure about how to measure, just visit the link above and I bet you this site will help you find that vintage pair that fits like a dream!
Thanks for this info! I have a question, what do you look for in a frame so you know it will be able to hold the new lenses? How do you know the old frame is the right kind? I have taken 2 old frames to the optometrist and each time he told me he couldn't get them "open" to install the new lenses. He said the screws wouldn't come out. I had no way to know this when I bought them, and before I waste any more $ on frames I figured I'd ask someone who has had success. Thanks in advance for any info.
ReplyDeleteThank you for your comment and questions! There are a few things to consider when buying vintage frames. 1: Make sure the metal and/or plastic frame is free of cracks, splitting, and warping. 2: Make sure screws are tight (secure but not too tight or unable to move). Also, if there is any stripping on the screws, the optician may not be able to remove them. The screw head and hinges should be clean, free of dirt, patina (green oxidation), and the dash (the middle area on the top of the screw where it is tightened) should be chipped/dinged. 3. If there are nose pads present, make sure they are not cracking, splitting, chipped, and ensure the metal that connects them to the frames are not warped or broken. However, the plastic nose pads can usually be replaced but the metal connectors are not. 4: Try to find frames in good condition or better yet, deadstock. Yes, you usually will pay more but try to see the extra money spent as an investment. The better condition the frames, the better your chances to have them fit with your prescription. 5: Go to an optician who is familiar with vintage eyewear. I have encountered many eye places where opticians will immediately turn me away because they are afraid of the risk of working with vintage frames. Shop around and ask lots of questions.
DeleteVery helpful, thank you for sharing! The search for frames that work for my giant head is on! ;)
ReplyDeleteI h ave a kid head (at least it seems like I do) and I can almost fit into many modern childrens' frames. I say almost! Lol! I find that vintage frames not only fit me better, they fit my lifestyle better too! I hope you are able to find the frames of your dreams! The Allyn Scura booth at Viva is so awesome! I could go nuts there! Etsy is a great place to score vintage frames! However, I prefer trying the frames on and seeing them in person before I buy!
DeleteDesigner sunglasses are a awesome and as well great equipment that may absolutely adapt and also in addition your personal style including activities together with transmission.
ReplyDeleteThose are some really cool glasses that you've got there. I've been wanting to get something like this for myself, but I just haven't been able to find the time to go out looking for them. Do you guys have any advice on where I could go to get a pair of retro glasses like this for myself?
ReplyDeletehttp://www.spectacleshoppe.biz/about-us/