If you’re over 50, you probably need to wear reading glasses sometimes, even if you were never a glasses wearer when you were younger. This is most likely due to presbyopia, which is the natural loss of near focusing ability that comes with age. As you get older, it becomes harder to see up-close text and objects clearly.  

If you’re not using readers yet, or if you’re ready to shop for a new pair, read on to learn how to pick the best glasses for women over 50.  

Best Glasses for Women Over 50 

Glasses are the ultimate accessory for your face. They come in so many sizes, shapes, and colors that you should be able to find frames that you’ll feel comfortable and confident wearing in any situation. Here are some things to consider when shopping for glasses for older women: 

  • Face shape – Some frame shapes will look better on you than others. For example, round glasses help soften the angles of a square face, and square frames complement an oval face. Knowing your face shape can help you pick more flattering frames. 
  • Style – If you gravitate toward a more classic look, you might prefer a cleaner eyeglasses frame style without embellishments. If you like to make a statement, look for bigger, bolder frames with bits of bling. 
  • Vision needs – Keep in mind the type of reading glasses you want and the lens power you need when you shop. To learn more, read our guide to buying reading glasses. Then use this tool to figure out what lens power you need. 
  • Lifestyle – If you like to read outside, you might like reading sunglasses. Look for sunglasses that provide 100% protection from UVA and UVB rays. The pair’s tinted lenses may also help you see more comfortably in the sun’s bright light.  

Best Frame Colors 

You can get stylish glasses in every color of the rainbow, not to mention multiple prints and patterns. Here are some of the most flattering frame colors for women over 50:  

  • Black – Black frames like the Gemma are a classic option that looks good on just about everyone. 
  • Clear – The minimalist style of a clear frame like the Arlo is a great choice for your first pair of reading glasses because it goes with everything.  
  • Pastels – If you like clear frames but want a bit of color, try a transparent frame with a pastel tint like pink or blue — the Tanya comes in both. You’ll get a subtle pop of color that won’t overpower your facial features. 
  • Tortoiseshell – Like black, tortoiseshell is universally flattering and looks great with any frame shape. The Ivy League Bifocal comes in several shades of tortoise. 
  • Multicolor – Your glasses can be an extension of your style and personality. Choose multicolor frames like the Ellie to show off your fun, vibrant side. 
  • Bold Colors – If you want to get noticed, look for reading glasses in bold and bright colors. Try the Chase glasses in bright purple or the Eiffel Bifocal in frosted red frames. Bold colors can also give you a more youthful look.  

Glasses for Gray Hair 

If your hair is gray, show it off with the right glasses. Bold colors as well as classic black frames like the Betty provide a great contrast to highlight your beautiful gray locks. 

Best Frame Shapes 

Now that you know the best frame colors, here are some of the most popular eyeglass frame shapes and styles to consider when choosing reading glasses for older women: 

  • Cat-eye glasses – You can’t go wrong with cat-eye frames. The shape is timeless for a reason — it complements all face shapes. Cat-eyes give your face a lifted look by drawing the attention of others upward. 
  • Browlines – Like cat-eye glasses, a browline frame also creates a lifting effect because the frames are darkest at the top. This shape brings the focus up to your eyes and away from your under-eye area.  
  • Thick frames – If you want the bold statement of a thicker frame but think a dark color could be too much for you, try the floral patterned Lorelai Bifocal or the blue tortoise Imogen Bifocal. 

Here’s another suggestion when you’re shopping for reading glasses: If you have close-set eyes, make sure the nose bridge (the piece that sits on the bridge of your nose) is not too thick. This can make your eyes look even closer together.  

If you have wider-set eyes, the nose bridge can be thicker. This applies when choosing glasses for older women and shopping for women of any age. 

Lens Coatings 

To enhance your visual experience and help protect your eyes, consider the following lens coatings and treatments for your next pair of readers: 

  • Anti-reflective (AR) coating – AR coating reduces reflections, which can help you see better. The coating can also make it easier for other people to see your eyes, in person and in photographs.  
  • Ultraviolet (UV) protection – The sun emits UVA and UVB radiation that can harm your eyes if they are not properly protected. Make sure your next pair of glasses provides 100% UVA-UVB protection. 
  • Scratch-resistant coating – It’s hard to avoid scratching your lenses, no matter how careful you are. Fortunately, many lenses have a scratch-resistant coating applied to help repel scratches that may otherwise occur during everyday use. 

The best glasses for you flatter your face and make you feel comfortable. That’s why it’s worth it to take some time on Readers.com to find the perfect pair. Your eyewear should reflect your unique style, prioritize comfort, and help you see the world more clearly.