What are full rim glasses?
Much like the name suggests, full rim glasses fully outline your lenses with a metal, plastic, or acetate frame.
They’re the most common type of glasses you can find in the market, partly because of its enduring popularity over the decades. They’ve also got the most comprehensive range of styles compared to other frames, giving wearers endless options to choose from.
Our favorite full-rim glasses styles
Circle
Full rimmed circle frames are simply classic, and are usually set in a metal frame for a sleek and somewhat bookish look. They’re the go-to of several icons from John Lennon, Steve Jobs, and pop-culture wizard Harry Potter.
Rectangle
You really can’t go wrong with a pair of rectangle frames. The unique proportions of this silhouette flatter every face shape, and are especially great for adding structure to round or oval face shapes. They’re also an excellent choice for those seeking to add width to narrow features or draw attention away from broader parts of the face.
Cat eye
Cat eye glasses are a must have for every fashionista, and add a touch of glamour to any outfit. Old Hollywood stars like Marilyn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn are avid fans of the retro style, and have been spotted wearing them on various occasions.
The upswept shape works wonders in enhancing one’s cheekbones, particularly for those with heart and diamond shaped faces.
Aviator
There’s just something about aviators that radiate effortless-cool. Perhaps the most distinguishable pair would be the classic teardrop shape (think Tom Cruise from Top Gun), but there are several iterations of the style to suit any face shape and personal aesthetic.
How do they compare to rimless or half rim glasses?
A rimless pair of glasses are mounted directly on the bridge and temples, while a half rim frame only covers the top half of your lenses. Both styles give off a more minimalistic look compared to a full rim frame, and are also more lightweight than their full-bodied counterparts. These glasses are good for those who want that ‘no-glasses’ look, but may not be the most suitable for those with an active lifestyle since they’re more prone to shattering.
What are the benefits of picking full rim glasses?
Full rim glasses are great if you’re looking for a low maintenance frame that can withstand accidental drops (our titanium and acetate frames are especially sturdy). Because they come in several widths, you’ll also be able to match your lenses with a frame of similar thickness for a completely seamless look.
But perhaps one of the most common reasons why many prefer full rim frames is simply because you have more choices when it comes to shape, styles, and material. Since half-rim and rimless glasses won’t be able to handle the weight of larger or thicker lenses, these categories generally offer less variations compared to full rim frames.
NOTE: If you’re deciding between choosing a pair of full-rim, half-rim, or rimless frame, see our breakdown on the differences between these rim types!