On August 4, 2023, Google honored Altina Schinasi’s birthday with a Doodle. Born on August 4, 1907, and passing on August 19, 1999, Altina Schinasi was a versatile American artist, filmmaker, entrepreneur, visual merchandiser, designer, and inventor. Among her remarkable achievements was designing the iconic Harlequin eyeglass frame, affectionately known as cat-eye glasses, which became a timeless symbol of style and gained widespread recognition.
In addition to Google’s tribute, we are also celebrating her birthday by showcasing some of the latest trending eyeglass frames.
Classification based on Glass
Here is an explanation of Fiberglass and Simple Glass in the context of glass classification:
- Fiberglass: Fiberglass, or glass-reinforced plastic (GRP), is a composite material made of glass fibers in a resin matrix. It’s valued for its strength, lightness, and corrosion resistance. In eyewear, fiberglass may be used in frames to enhance durability. These frames endure impacts and stress, making them popular for active people or those desiring sturdy eyewear.
- Simple Glass: Simple Glass refers to regular standard or basic Glass, untreated Glass made from sand, soda ash, and limestone melted at high temperatures. It is used for different purposes, including eyeglass lenses. In eyewear, it can mean basic lenses without extras like anti-reflective coatings, UV protection, or impact resistance. While lacking advanced features, simple glass lenses still offer precise vision correction.
Classification based on Frame types
- Full Rimmed:
Full-rimmed or full-frame glasses have frames that encircle the lenses entirely. The frame goes all the way around the lenses, holding them securely. This creates a strong border around the lenses, and the frame continues along the lenses’ top, bottom, and sides.
These protective options for lenses offer strong protection against damage, with various style choices, colors, and materials for personalization. It can securely hold lenses in place, fit multiple types of lenses, and complement different face shapes while potentially being slightly heavier due to its durable materials.
- Semi-rimless
Semi-rimless or half-rim glasses have frames that partially encircle the lenses. The top has a frame, but the bottom is open, making them look lighter.
The open bottom might expose lenses to more risk. Specific prescriptions may need full frames for support. No lower frame makes them comfortable for long wear. Open bottom for unobstructed vision, great for reading. Sleek, minimal look appeals to those who like simple designs. It can hold lighter, thinner lenses, reducing weight. Available in many colors, materials, and designs.
Semi-rimless glasses blend sturdy full rims with a modern, sleek style, perfect for those seeking comfort and a fashionable appearance.
- Rimless
Rimless glasses have no frame around the lenses. The lenses are attached directly to the temples and bridge, creating a minimal, sleek look that highlights the lenses.
Frameless options provide lightweight and comfortable wear, allowing unobstructed sight and minimal distractions. However, they could be more fragile and need extra support for thicker lenses or specific prescriptions. The absence of a heavy frame offers a comfortable fit, while the elegant and discreet design suits those who prefer a sophisticated look. With fewer components, these options require less maintenance and blend well with different faces and outfits.
Rimless glasses offer a modern, sleek look focusing on lenses, providing lightweight comfort and clear vision for those who appreciate subtle elegance.
- Low bridge
Low bridge in eyeglasses means they are designed to fit comfortably on noses that sit lower, often achieved through adjustments like lower nose pads or bridge shape, catering especially to those with this trait.
These options are designed for lower nose bridges and ensure a secure and comfortable fit. The adjusted design prevents slipping, maintaining clear vision with minimal adjustments. While they enhance the appearance of such bridges, those with higher ones might find them less comfortable due to the specialized design.
Low bridge glasses cater to lower nose bridges, ensuring comfort, stability, and a balanced look while maintaining clear vision.
- Wire
Wireframes are eyeglasses made from thin metal wires like stainless steel or titanium. They have a lightweight and simple design, with wires forming the frame around the lenses, including parts for the temples, nose bridge, and hinges.
These options feature a lightweight and minimalist design, providing a subtle, comfortable look. While delicate, they might be less sturdy than thicker frames. Adjustments for fit are possible but should be kept moderate to maintain strength. Their delicate style suits different face shapes and preferences, offering classic and intricate designs. These frames are ideal for those who prefer less conspicuous glasses, as their lightness contributes to overall comfort.
Wireframes provide a refined, discreet look favored by those who want lightweight eyewear. They work for different occasions and face shapes due to their adaptability.
Classification Based on Frame Material:
- Metal Frames: Metal frames are eyeglasses made from various metals, such as stainless steel, titanium, aluminum, or metal alloys. They are famous for being tough, strong, and looking good. Metal frames come in various styles, from classic to modern, and can be lightweight and adjustable for a comfortable fit. Titanium frames, a subset of metal frames, stand out with their lightweight, corrosion-resistant properties, combining strength with a modern aesthetic. It is for lasting, comfortable eyewear that retains a sleek design.
- Plastic Frames: Plastic frames are made from different plastics, like acetate, cellulose, acetate, or nylon. They offer a wide range of colors, patterns, and shapes, providing versatility in design. Plastic frames are often lightweight and affordable and can be a great choice for individuals seeking bold or unique styles.
- Acetate Frames: Acetate frames are a type of plastic frame made from a specific material called cellulose acetate. They are valued for their rich colors, patterns, and textures and often offer a more luxurious appearance. Acetate frames are known for being lightweight, hypoallergenic, and easily customizable.
- Wood Texture Frames: Wood texture frames, also known as wood-like frames, mimic the appearance of wood but are typically made from other materials like acetate or plastic. They offer a rustic and natural look, combining aesthetics with modern frame manufacturing techniques.
Classification based on Frame shapes
- Rectangle: Describing eyeglass frames that have a rectangular shape, having sharp or angular corners and straight lines.
- Oval: Oval frames have a curved shape resembling an elongated circle, offering a balanced, versatile look that suits many face shapes.
- Round: Round frames are circular, often associated with a retro or vintage style, and can soften angular features.
- Square: Square frames have a boxy and angular shape, creating a bold, defined look that contrasts with softer facial features.
- Large: These frames are larger, creating a bold, occasionally oversized look that grabs attention.
- Horn: Horn frames mimic the look of animal horns or tortoiseshell, mixing dark and light shades in a distinctive pattern.
- Browline: Browline frames are characterized by thicker upper rim miming eyebrows, often paired with thinner lower rims for a unique, retro-inspired design.
- Aviator: Aviator frames have a distinctive teardrop shape, originally designed for pilots, with a double bridge and thin metal construction.
- Cat Eye: Cat eye frames have an upswept outer corner, resembling a cat’s eye shape, and are often associated with a vintage or glamorous style.
- Oversized: Oversized frames are larger than standard eyeglasses, making a bold fashion statement and often covering a larger portion of the face.
- Geometric: Geometric frames have non-traditional shapes, such as hexagons or octagons, for a modern and artistic appearance.