Age may be just a number, but that number comes with a few…upgrades. Like suddenly playing the accordion with your menu when you go out to dinner. Or wondering why your ball keeps disappearing into thin air when you’re out on the greens.
For most distinguished gentlemen, glasses aren’t optional, but inevitable. But here’s the good news: needing new eyewear after 50 doesn’t mean sacrificing style. In fact, your 50s are the perfect time to lean into frames that are smarter, sharper, and a little more you than ever before.
Whether you’re upgrading your everyday specs or picking up a new pair of readers, choosing frames after 50 is all about finding that sweet spot of comfort, confidence, and character. This guide will help get you there, with some of the best glasses for older men.
What to Consider When Selecting Glasses for Men Over 50
When selecting eyewear, three things matter most: fit, shape, and personal style.
(In that order, because there’s nothing worse than a poorly-fitted pair of glasses, no matter how fantastic they may be.)
Getting the Right Fit
Eyeglasses are sized by lens width, bridge width, and arm length. And, unsurprisingly, not all frames (or faces) are created equal. Wider faces will need a wider pair of glasses to look right and feel comfortable. Narrow faces need narrow glasses.
If you wear glasses now, you have a cheat sheet to great fit: the dimensions are usually printed on the inside of the arm. Start there, but know that the fit of a frame can also depend on the shape of the lenses as well as the materials. Our fit guide can help you figure out all the details.
Choosing a Flattering Shape
Choosing the right shape isn’t just about the frames. It’s also about your face.
Face shape can change with age, and balance is the most important thing. Have a jaw that could cut diamonds? You might look great in round or oval frames. For a softer, rounder face, look at square and rectangular frames to add structure. The eyebobs style quiz and virtual try-on tool can both help you find the right shape for you.
Consider Your Personal Style
Glasses aren’t just practical; they’re personal. Just like your clothes, shoes, and accessories, your eyeglasses are an extension of your personal style, whether that’s classic and refined or modern and trendy. Your glasses should reflect who you are now, at this stage of your life.
Best Eyeglass Frames for Men Over 50
The best glasses for men over 50 balance fit, polish, and even a little panache.
Round Glasses
Timeless, intelligent, and versatile, you can’t go wrong with round. The curving shapes of round and oval glasses are especially flattering on strong, angular faces. Plus, they work just as well in the boardroom as the golf course.
Try Case Closed, a refined round frame that balances style and versatility.
Rectangle Glasses
Rectangular or square glasses are popular with men of all ages for their strong, masculine presence. As you age, features tend to soften. Angular frames can bring back that structure.
Try: Numero Uno, a strong square frame worthy of your wisdom.
Bold Colors
Once upon a time, men pretty much only wore black, brown, and grey. Bor-ing. Modern gentlemen have their pick of frame colors, from showstopping red to stunning blue. Pro tip: choose a color that compliments your natural skin tone for an instant facelift.
Try Seymour Glass, a square frame available in both classic tones and a bold crimson that means business.
Tortoiseshell
Tortoiseshell is classic without being boring, just like men of a certain age. The sophisticated mottled pattern traditionally comes in black, brown, and amber, but that’s not your only option. Updated tortoiseshell frames can be found in fresh variations like blue and slate grey.
Try Biff, a classic eyebobs frame with striking fashionableness.
Thick Frames
High-contrast, bold frames make a big statement—plus they camouflage fine lines and wrinkles and draw attention to your eyes. Chunky frames are great for adding structure to round or oval faces, but they come in a variety of shapes to suit all face shapes.
Try Overachiever, a commanding square frame perfect for older gentlemen with gravitas.
Modern Eyeglasses
Modern eyeglasses add a fashion-forward edge to every outfit, showing that innovative style has no expiration date. You’re no longer bound by trends, or “age-appropriate” rules. You’ve earned the right to wear whatever you darn well please, including an ultra-modern style.
Try Flat Tire, a contemporary twist on a traditional round style.
Clear Frames
Minimal, sleek, and quietly powerful, clear frames are some of the best glasses for older men with an understated style. These barely-there styles enhance your vision and still offer wrinkle-blurring power, just with a more subtle presence.
Try the Waylaid, a transparent yet surprisingly bold style with an unexpected round shape.
The Rules of Glasses for Men Over 50
There are only two rules for choosing eyewear over 50:
- Wear what makes you feel comfortable and confident.
- Repeat #1 daily.
Classic styles? Fantastic. Bold frames? Go for it. The only wrong choice is playing it safe when you’ve earned the right to have some fun.
When you’re ready to shop designer glasses for older men, check out the full collection available from eyebobs. Because great style doesn’t fade with age. It just gets better.
