NEW YEAR. NEW YOU! How to Choose Your New Frames & Questions to Ask Your Optician

A new year is the perfect time for a fresh start—and that includes your eyewear. Whether you’re updating your look, replacing well-loved frames, or finally investing in something that truly fits your lifestyle, choosing new frames is about much more than just style.

Your optician is one of your best resources in this process. Asking the right questions can help you leave with frames that feel great, function beautifully, and make you feel confident every time you put them on.

Here’s what to ask your optician when choosing your new frames this year.

1. What Frame Shape Best Suits My Face?

While trends come and go, the most flattering frames are the ones that complement your face shape and features. Your optician can guide you toward styles that balance your proportions, highlight your best features, and suit your personal aesthetic.

Ask your optician to explain why a certain shape works for you—it’ll make future frame shopping even easier.

2. Do These Frames Fit My Nose, Temples, and Ears Properly?

Fit is everything. Frames that slide down your nose, pinch behind your ears, or feel tight at the temples can quickly become uncomfortable.

Your optician should check:

  • Bridge fit (especially important if you’ve struggled with slipping)

  • Temple length and pressure

  • Overall frame width

A great fit not only feels better, but it also helps your lenses perform correctly.

3. Are These Frames Right for My Prescription?

Not all frames work equally well with every prescription. Strong prescriptions, progressive lenses, or specialty lenses may require specific frame depths, sizes, or materials.

Your optician can help you choose frames that:

  • Minimize lens thickness

  • Improve visual clarity

  • Avoid distortion

This is especially important if you’re upgrading to progressives or have noticed discomfort in past glasses.

4. What Materials Will Work Best for My Lifestyle?

Your day-to-day life should influence your frame choice. Let your optician know how you spend your time, at work, exercising, screen use, travel, or long hours wearing glasses.

Ask about:

  • Lightweight materials for all-day comfort

  • Flexible frames for durability

  • Hypoallergenic options

  • Acetate vs. metal vs. titanium

The right material can make a huge difference in comfort and longevity.

5. How Many Pairs Should I Really Have?

Many people benefit from more than one pair of glasses.

You might ask:

  • Should I have a separate pair for work or screens?

  • Do I need prescription sunglasses?

  • Would a backup pair be helpful?

Your optician can help you build a small eyewear wardrobe that supports your vision in every setting.

6. What Lens Options Should I Consider?

Frames get all the attention, but lenses do the heavy lifting.

Ask your optician about:

  • Blue light filtering

  • Anti-reflective coatings

  • Photochromic lenses

  • Polarized sunglasses

The right lens upgrades can significantly improve comfort, reduce eye strain, and protect your vision long-term.

7. How Can I Keep These Frames Looking New?

Before you leave, ask how to care for your new frames properly.

Your optician can show you:

  • How to clean lenses without damaging coatings

  • How often to come in for adjustments

  • When to replace nose pads or tighten screws

Proper care helps your frames last longer and look better throughout the year.

Choosing new frames is a personal decision and one that should blend comfort, function, and style. By asking your optician the right questions and leaning on their expertise, you’ll walk away with glasses that truly work for you.

This new year, don’t just pick frames that look good on the shelf; choose frames that support your vision, your lifestyle, and your confidence every single day.

Jenna Offerdahl