THEORY OF COSMESIS

 

Did you know that there is an actual theory as to how to pick a pair of glasses that will suit your face shape?

It is called the theory of Cosmesis and it is essentially a method used to fit frames cosmetically. The goal, in accordance with this theory is to achieve the best possible appearance with the frames chosen taking into account the following considerations:

     1.)     classification of frames

 2.)     facial shape

 3.)     facial features

 4.)     color (skin tone)

 5.)     hair style

Frame selection is often a process of trial and error.  An optician can assist in choosing a frame, but a frame consultant or salesperson can offer helpful suggestions as well. 

CLASSIFICATION OF FRAMES BY WEIGHT

You will notice that frames can be physically heavy or light depending on the material used to make them and as well on the style of the frame.

Usually a heavy frame is recommended for people with large, broad features.  A medium frame is recommended for people with normal features or with large features and small stature.  A light frame is recommended for small delicate features, usually women with childlike features or for children.

 

CLASSIFICATION OF FRAMES BY COLOR

Eyeglass frames come in a variety of colors which can help to make a fashion statement or help to draw attention away from a problem area or towards an area of the face you may be trying to enhance. 

The following are frame colors that are available in an optical store.

1.)       Solid color—even color throughout

2.)       Vertically gradient—brow bar darker, lower eyewire light or clear

3.)       Horizontally gradient- darker temporally, lighter at bridge

4.)       Clear bridge (area at top of nose)

5.)       Multicolor

6.)       Yellow gold

7.)       White gold

FACIAL SHAPE

A Frame can influence the shape of a face either by its lines being similar to and accenting those of the face, or by its lines being dissimilar to and de-emphasizing those of the face.

i.e. a round frame shape de-emphasizes the squareness of a face or a square frame shape ( a frame having straight lines) de-emphasizes roundness in a face.

 THE WELL-PROPORTIONED FACE

 Being human means that we are all made uniquely and therefore we may not all have the ‘perfect well-proportioned’ face.  But we need not worry as this is where the Theory of Cosmesis can help with giving the illusion of having a well proportioned face.  Regardless of the shape of your face, the key in selecting a good frame is to keep the frame in proportion to your face.

  A face consists of 3 sections:  In a well-proportioned face, all sections are equal

1.)   top of the head to top of the eyes

2.)   eyes to bottom of nose

3.)   bottom of nose to chin

An individual with the following face shapes should choose the recommended frame styles to give them the best possible appearance.

      i.  Heart Shaped—The frame should cover the width of the      face.  Frames with       detail towards the temples draws attention away from the slimmer lower part       thus deemphasizing sharp features or problem areas.


 

     ii.     Square Shaped—Rectangular or oval shaped frames are well suited to a square face.  To deemphasize the ‘squareness,’ avoid picking frames with sharp corners or frames that are flat at the bottom.  Round frames generally are a good pick.
 

 iii.  Round Shaped—To deemphasize the ‘roundness,’ a good choice of frame would be one that’s rectangular or a narrow oval.  The frame should sit high on the face to give the illusion of more length from below the frame to the bottom of the chin.

 iv.  Oblong Shaped—Frames well suited to this face shape are those with a strong horizontal line or frames that are rounder.  A frame with detail at the bottom will draw attention away from the length of the face thus minimizing the length.   

 

v.     Oval Shaped—This is the IDEAL face shape in that an individual may wear most any shaped frame and they will be able to carry it off well.