When it comes to choosing spectacle frames, even the most enthusiastic shoppers amongst us may shiver in our over-the-knee-boots at the thought of it. Here are some of the comments as to why it’s a tricky decision, and our solutions:

I can’t see without my prescription when I try them on!

This is a difficult one, but there are lots of ways around it. Firstly, enlist the help of whoever you trust the most, partner, friend, mother. Browse as many styles as possible. Some opticians have a computer system that lets you see yourself in the frame; some will let you try them at home. Take a quick picture on a digital camera and then you can see yourself. Order try before you buy from the Internet Glasses Company and get the neighbours round; make a party out of taking a vote!!

I‘ve got no idea what’s in fashion

Spec fashion is not quite in the forefront of the news like clothes etc, but it’s there if you look for it. Up market mags like Vogue do have ads for glasses, so scour them for the newest designer collections, then find the nearest from an online optician for all the style but a fraction of the cost. Check out what Celebs are wearing. Colour palettes will reflect what’s in the shops for clothes.

They’re really expensive – how do I decide on one pair for everything I want?

The easy answer is that you don’t – would you wear the same dress for the school run and a ball? An eyewear wardrobe will help you to enjoy wearing glasses and make you more confident in them. Something funky for daywear, glitzy for evening glamour, and simple for walking the dog!

I hate glasses, nothing suits me

There is a frame for every face; you just have to find yours. Try lots on, canvass the opinions of friends and professionals, look in magazines and all around you in city centres etc. Decide on a look – bold chunky plastic or slim and classic metal. Then colour – stick to something that compliments your colouring if you’re not too confident to begin with. Then whittle it down to the subtle detail of shape and trim. Easy!

I want a pair like my old ones, why don’t they make them anymore?

For the same reason we don’t have bubble perms and Abba blue eye shadow – get with the times! You have to move on, as you should with your hair, clothes and make up. Specs are the first thing anyone notices about you, so make the most of new technology and materials. Enjoy wearing something different!