Choosing prescription sunglasses is a little trickier than picking out a regular pair of eyeglasses. Since the sunglasses are inherently darker, it's more difficult to see yourself in the mirror after putting them on. You can rely on a friend's judgment, but sometimes they might not know the look you're going for. Here are a few basic guidelines to remember when choosing prescription sunglasses.

Know Your Face Shape

There are four common face shapes: round, oval, square and triangle. If you're having trouble figuring out which one you are, here's a trick: Look in the bathroom mirror. Outline the shape of your face with a lipstick, eyeliner pencil or a can of shaving cream. Stand back and determine what shape you drew. That's the general shape of your face.

Do The Opposite

Whatever shape your face is, choose a prescription sunglasses frame that contrasts with your face shape. If you have a round face, opt for structured sunglasses with rigid lines. If you have a square jaw line, choose sunglasses with softer edges. Oval faces are most attractive with angular sunglasses. The contrast will balance your face and enhance your appearance.

Consider the Exception

If you have a triangular face, you can safely ignore the contrast guideline. Triangular faces can get away with almost any shape of sunglasses, whether they're oval, round or square.

Size Them Up

Sunglasses are available in several different sizes as well as shapes. To pick the perfect size for your face, adhere to this simple guideline and choose sunglasses that match the width of your cheekbones. In other words, the frame width of the sunglasses should equal the width of your face from cheekbone to cheekbone. When figuring out how to choose the best sunglasses, draw an imaginary line down the sides of your face where your cheekbones are. The frames should lie directly on that line.

Be Practical

Sunglasses should improve your daytime vision, not make it worse. Only buy quality prescription sunglasses that have rated UV protection. These will not only make you look good, but will protect your vision by blocking the sun's harmful rays. Most optometrist offices only sell quality prescription eyeglasses and sunglasses, so if you buy from there, you should be fine.

Sunglasses can also act as a protection against crow's feet. If you buy a good brand with adequate coverage around the edges of your eyes, you'll reduce or eliminate squinting, which is a leading cause of eye wrinkles.

With these tips for choosing the best prescription sunglasses, you'll be the most stylish person around in eyeglasses. Contact a company like Waterdown Town Optical for more information.