Extra Large Eyeglass Frames

Extra large eyeglass frames can be trendy, stylish and practical all at once. While they have varied in popularity throughout the years, they always come back in style and have been at the forefront of fashion in recent years.

Both sunglasses and prescription eyeglasses are available in oversize formats and come in a variety of shapes and styles. Typically, they cover a large part of the face, including part of your cheeks and forehead, as compared to smaller frames that only cover the eye area.

Jacqueline Kennedy made extra large sunglasses famous in the 1960s, and they have been popular to varying degrees ever since. Large sunglasses made a comeback in the 1980s, and then again around 2005. They remain a popular choice among sunglass styles.

Modern interpretations of large sunglasses come in many shapes, including square, round, wrap-around, aviators, and of course the classic "Jackie O's." Lens finishes also vary greatly, from subtle tints to deep black for those who wish to conceal themselves. Oversize glasses are available with polarized lenses as well as mirrored and colored lenses.

Many top designers make oversize sunglasses, including Dolce & Gabbana, Prada, Gucci, Roberto Cavalli, Christian Dior, Tom Ford and Juicy Couture.

While oversize sunglasses are considered sexy, large prescription eyeglasses tend to have a reputation for being nerdy. However, large "granny glasses" have been making a comeback in recent years among hipsters. These glasses typically have black plastic frames, but are often worn in funky colors.

All trends aside, large eyeglasses are for larger faces. If you have a larger build, look for frames that are proportional to your size. If you have an above-average sized head, you may need to purchase wider frames, though not necessarily an extra large lens style. Two sites to look for larger frames are Fatheadz and Eyeglass.com's big & tall section.

Fashion tips for selecting larger eyeglass frames:

• A good rule of thumb when choosing eyeglass frames is to select frames that contrast your facial features: if you have a large, round face, opt of angular or rectilinear frames.
• Don't choose frames that are too small for your face.
• Don't be afraid of chunky frames or bold colors: have fun with your eyewear.
• Thick temples (the sides of your glasses) can create a slimming effect, contradictory to logic.

If you are dressing up as a clown for Halloween, a pair of giant sunglasses or eyeglasses will complete your look. To achieve a comical effect, these glasses must be so large that they extend a couple of inches over each side of your face. You can find clown glasses at costume or party stores.

Large sunglasses offer better protection from the sun than smaller frames simply because they cover more of your face. Be sure to purchase glasses with both UVA and UVB protection, and don't use the glasses as an excuse not to wear sunscreen, too.

Oversize sunglasses have a reputation for being chic, as they have been popularized by the many celebrities who wear them including Nicole Richie and Mary-Kate Olsen. Large sunglasses lend an air of mystery, and also provide disguise on days you don't have time to apply makeup.

Large eyeglass frames-—whether sunglasses or prescription glasses—-interfere less with peripheral vision than smaller frames. They also tend to be flattering to a wide range of face shapes.

Most optical stores carry a selection of extra large eyeglass frames. You can find oversize sunglasses at retail chains like Sunglass Hut and Solstice, and both sunglass and eyeglass frames in large format at optical chains including Lenscrafters and Pearle Vision. For the largest selection of oversize frames, shop online. A few sites include:

• AnySunglasses.com
• SHOPSTYLE
• hi SUNGLASSES
• Eyeglasses.com, large prescription frames

• Circle Contact Lenses
• Halloween Contact Lenses
• Special FX Theatrical Contact Lenses

• Chanel Sunglasses
• Replica Oakley Sunglasses
• Ray-Ban Sunglasses
• Men's Sunglasses
• Aviator Sunglasses