Well-fitting sunglasses are more comfortable and protect better, because they stay in place and cover the eyes. Poorly fitting frames slip, pinch or leave red marks. Here is how to read sunglasses sizes, measure a pair you already own and choose the right size online.
Understanding frame size numbers
Many frames have three numbers printed inside the temple arm, in millimetres:
- Lens width: the width of each lens at its widest point, not including the frame. Adult lenses usually measure about 40–60 mm; children's are smaller.
- Bridge width: the gap between the lenses, where the frame rests on the nose. Usually 14–24 mm for adults. Close-set eyes or a narrow nose suit a smaller bridge; wide-set eyes or a broader nose suit a larger one.
- Temple length: the arm length from the hinge to the tip, usually 120–150 mm for adults. It should reach comfortably behind the ears without pressing.
Measuring a pair you own
If the numbers have worn off, use a millimetre ruler:
- Lens width: measure across the widest part of one lens, without the frame.
- Bridge width: measure the shortest distance between the two lenses.
- Temple length: measure from the hinge to the bend, then from the bend to the tip, and add the two.
- Lens height: measure from the bottom to the top of the lens at its tallest point. Taller lenses give more coverage.
No reference pair?
Stand in front of a mirror and hold a ruler horizontally just below your eyes. Measure the distance between your temples in millimetres. Your frames should be about that wide, or slightly wider. Then compare with our sunglasses size chart, which lists the measurements of every OLIVIO & CO frame.
Tips for the right fit
- Frame width: the frame front should be about as wide as your face at the temples. Too wide and it slides; too narrow and it pinches.
- Face shape: square frames suit round faces, and round frames soften square ones. See our face shape guide.
- The stay-put test: look down at your shoes. Sunglasses that fit stay in place.
- Style: once the fit is right, choose a pair you love wearing.
Sizing for kids
Children's faces aren't scaled-down adult faces: their nose bridges are flatter and their faces grow quickly. Size for the child's current age rather than buying big to grow into, because loose frames slide down and let light in. OLIVIO&CO sizes are Toddler & Baby (0–3 years), Kids XS (3–5), Kids S (3–7), Youth M (7–12) and Teen & Adult (L and XL). For a full age-by-age walkthrough, read our kids' sunglasses size by age guide.
