It’s the age old dilemma: so many things in the closet, but nothing to wear! Why is this the case? Why are we not satisfied with that single pair of jeans?
Instead, we have a closet full of jeans in different washes, distresses, lengths, and fits. One particular day you may want to wear skinny jeans, or on a moody day you may want to wear a frayed pair. Whatever the case is, one pair of jeans in the closet is simply not enough. Do not get me started on the shoe collection! Really, how many pairs of sandals or sneakers does one need? Infinite in most minds. With this being said, it boggles my mind that people only own one pair of glasses.
Sure, glasses help you see, but they also sit on your face for the world to see you. If we are constantly changing what we wear, based on events, moods, and trends, why not start building a collection of eyewear to match? In order to change the mentality that one pair of glasses fits the entire needs of a patient, we should be educating them that it can complete a person’s whole look. For example, when I am running errands, I always grab for my round Rayban sunglass frame. However, when I am out to lunch with my girlfriends, I would choose my glamorous Chanels. The Raybans are comfortable, stylish, but not overstated, while, like a pair of stilettos. The Chanel is worn for looks, rather than comfort. The point is, with so many different occasions and events, just like owning one pair of shoes will not suffice, having one pair of glasses will not either. You’ll need to get to know your patients hobbies and lifestyle in order to suggest different pairs that will shine during their various activities.
Glasses are not just for vision, they are also used to make a statement and complete a look. No matter what a person’s style is, there are great frames to match. As an eye care professional, allow your patients to choose what is best for their personality by carrying frames outside of black and brown. Also, try to place some frames outside their comfort zone to try on, as a single frame cannot suffice for every occasion and frame of mind (no pun intended). You will be surprised what some of them may choose.
– Dr. Arian Fartash O.D.
