Become a Sunglass Authority
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PRESCRIPTION LENSES IN SUNGLASS FRAMES<br />
A Customer may enquire about putting prescription lenses into a sunglass frame. The answer depends on what frame shape<br />
they are looking at and how curved the lens is.<br />
• The term “base curve” is the amount of degree of “curvature” in the lens. Curvature is measured optically in<br />
“dioptres”. On average, the curvature of a pair of sunglasses is about 6 dioptres. Wrap sunglasses have steeper curves of<br />
about 8 to 9 dioptres.<br />
• A shield lens can never be scripted. Similarly, a pair of wrap sunglasses will not work as the more curved the frame is, the more the<br />
lens will have to be curved to fit the frame, and this will distort the vision for a prescription lens wearer.<br />
• The only frames that can accommodate prescription lenses are those with separate lenses and where the shape of the lens is<br />
straight rather than curved. The full frame Aviators and Wayfarers are examples of frames that could be suitable for prescription<br />
lenses.<br />
• When in doubt, refer to a local optometrist for an expert opinion.<br />
FRAME MATERIALS<br />
As you will have noticed, sunglass frames can be made out of different materials. The most common frame materials are plastic<br />
and metal, but more recently carbon fibre has also been introduced. It is important for you to be able to recognise the difference<br />
between plastic, metal (especially nickel free titanium) and carbon fibre in your store. You also need to be able to explain the<br />
benefits and limitations of each material to your customer.<br />
MAKING<br />
IT REAL<br />
1. DISCUSS THESE QUESTIONS WITH YOUR MANAGER.<br />
2. TRY ON AND EXPLORE THE DIFFERENT FRAME SHAPES AND<br />
STYLES IN THE STORE.<br />
3. NOTICE HOW SOME FRAME SHAPES AND STYLES LOOK BETTER<br />
ON YOU THAN OTHERS. WHY DO YOU THINK THIS IS?<br />
4. NOTICE WHICH FRAME STYLES LOOK GOOD ON YOUR<br />
CUSTOMERS. TRY AND GUESS WHICH FRAME STYLES AND SHAPES<br />
WILL SUIT A CUSTOMER THE MINUTE THEY WALK IN. THEN CHECK<br />
YOUR INTUITION BY NOTICING WHICH SHAPES AND STYLES THEY<br />
ACTUALLY CHOOSE TO BUY.<br />
5. NOTICE HOW EACH BRAND USES ITS FRAME SHAPES AND STYLES<br />
TO MAKE A UNIQUE STATEMENT. HOW IS EACH ONE DIFFERENT?<br />
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