Spectacles of the Past: The History of Eyeglasses

Have you ever wondered when the first eyeglasses were invented? What did the eyeglasses of the past look like?

A brief history of eyeglasses and how their styles have changed through the years is an interesting - though sometimes blurry - look at times gone past.

Early Eye Glass Inventions

The first efforts to correct blurry vision were especially crude; think a large glass bowl filled with water. The first magnifying glass, invented in Venice around 1000 C.E., was the true start to corrected vision. These “reading stones” became friends of aging monks and medieval detectives.

The first pair glasses were simply two magnifying glasses connected by a hinge and balanced on the nose, invented in Italy somewhere between 1285-1289. Early versions of glasses would also sometimes be held up by a handle.

During the next couple centuries, eyeglasses continued to rise in popularity and demand.

Advancements and Breakthroughs

A large breakthrough came in the 1500's when crafters fashioned a concave lens to correct the vision of the nearsighted Pope. Now lenses could cure both nearsighted and farsighted problems.

In the 1700's, the idea emerged to anchor eyeglasses to the ears so they would stay in place. The late 1700's also brought the invention of bifocals, though it wasn’t until the 1800's that glasses evolved to correct astigmatism. Monocles and trifocals followed in the late 1800's and early 1900's.


The multitude of styles on the market today proves the diversity and popularity of eyeglasses. While traditionally the best frames were made in Germany and the best lenses made in Italy, manufacturers from all over the world now understand how to produce high-quality glasses.

We can use eyeglasses to correct almost every vision problem. Understanding the history of eyeglasses and how they have changed over time helps us to appreciate how far we have come.

Finding the Perfect Fit for Your Frames

At Infinite Eye Care, we want you to be completely comfortable with your glasses. We stay up-to-date with the latest trends in eyewear and lenses to keep you looking your best. The problem is, sometimes even the best-looking frames don’t fit the best.

When your glasses are fitting properly, they will feel more comfortable, look more put-together, and ensure proper correction to your vision.

The fit of a pair of glasses is determined by four key elements:

The Frame

The width and style of the material surrounding the lenses. The frame should be level with your eyes and extend a proper length across your face.

The Temples

The extension that runs from the frame and sits on your ears to position your glasses. These must be to a specific length so that the curve does not sit too far in front of or behind your ears.

The Bridge

The portion of the frame that rests on your nose to position the placement of the lenses. The basics of determining if your bridge fits is to see how it is resting on your nose. If the bridge span is too small, your glasses will be placed too high which disrupts your pupil position. If the bridge span is too large, your glasses will continually fall down throughout the day or be positioned too low. It is crucial that despite the style of the glasses, your bridge is fitting properly so that it is nearly level with the center of your eyes.

Pupil Position

Where the pupil of your eye is in relation to your lenses. Your pupil should be near the center of your lenses to ensure that your glasses are properly correcting your vision. If your glasses are not positioned correctly, they may not actually be doing their job!

Assessing these four elements will enhance the look and feel of your glasses while improving the quality of your vision.

If you’re looking for the perfect pair of glasses or sunglasses, come into Infinite Eye Care in downtown Sauk Rapids.  

Framed for Spring Trends

Spring has finally sprung, which means Spring fashion is well underway - and that includes glasses and sunglasses for the season. Not only is it important to find a frame that fits your face shape, but the color of the frame can make a world of difference. Spring is the season for calm colors, warm grays, and matte blues. These trends provide a fun color option without an in-your-face statement.

When choosing new frames for you face, use these useful tips for fitting the frame to your face shape:

Square Face:

If you have a square face, frames that are oval or round will contrast against the straight lines of your face. The contrast creates a softer look on your face.

Round Face:

Looking for frames when you have a round face? Soft rectangular frames are your best bet; these frames usually have a taper from the top to the bottom.

Oval Face:

Your face is naturally balanced, so when you are looking for glasses, avoid frames that are too big or too small for you face. Off-sized frames can distort the natural balance of your face.

Heart Face:

What’s a heart face shape? It’s when you have a wider forehead and your face narrows to your chin. The best frames for your face are frames that complete the balance of your face and mirror its shape.

Rectangle Face:

Frames with a heavier top divide up your face for more depth. Both round, oval, and rectangle frames can work with your face, so you may need to try a few to find what fits you best.

When looking through the new trends for spring, remember to consider your face shape. Just because you like the color of the frames or you like them in the advertisement, doesn’t mean they will fit your face. You not only want to feel good about wearing your glasses, but you also want to look good, too!

Spring time means grad parties, picnics, reunions, and reconnecting with friends. This is the perfect time to freshen up your look. An updated pair of glasses can take years off your face. Plus, it’s a great conversation starter. We have unique and trendy frames for all your needs, and now, we even carry Raybans! Stop in and check them out - we will help you select the best frame for your face. See clearly with a new pair of frames from Infinite Eye Care.

May the Frames Be With You

Greetings. My name is Mini Darth Vader, I am the long lost brother (and a significantly shorter version) of the Real Darth Vader, aka Anakin Skywalker. Many of you know his story - well here is mine. Shortly after the Empire Struck back, I set course for the plant Madukatar in the Galaxy of the Milky Way. During my voyage, my ship experienced engine failure and I crashed landed in a place called Sauk Rapids, Minnesota, on your planet Earth. After my crash landing, I noticed that my eyesight had diminished due to my entry into the Earth’s atmosphere.

Luckily my ship landed near Infinite Eye Care, where I was pleased to meet Dr. Thomas Johnson. Dr. Tom and the Infinite Eye Care staff graciously assisted me with my eye care needs.

Everything from the check-in, the waiting lobby, the eye exam and the selection of frames was exceptional (The best service in the universe actually). They even accepted my healthcare insurance provider!

After my checkup, I was greeted by a lovely lady named Katie who helped me try on some frames. Their large selection of high-quality frames made it a very difficult decision.

After much consideration, I decided to go with the red ones, not only because I am a member of the dark side, but because they fit my facial structure just right!

To repay my friend Dr. Thomas Johnson and the Infinite Eye Care staff, I agreed to help them run a contest of epic proportions called #MayTheFramesBeWithYou, which is happening now until the movie premiere of the new Star Wars Film: The Force Awakens, on December 18th.

You can win a multitude of prizes, including Marcus Theatres gift cards, popcorn and soda and the grand prize, a family movie package, including a gift card to Zaffiro's!

So pay close attention to Infinite Eye Care’s Facebook page over the next few weeks, and be sure to stop in and say hello, as I will be hanging out in the lobby waiting for your arrival. Make sure to snap a picture with me as well, I enjoy taking photos.

Hope to see you soon, and #MayTheFramesBeWithYou,

Mini Darth Vader

Exclusive Frames at Infinite Eye Care

A pair of eyeglasses will be with you for a long time- be sure to pick a one-of-a-kind pair that you love the entire time. Infinite Eye Care can help you find that special pair that you can’t find everywhere else with our exclusive frames. These frames are only available at certain clinics and include some truly unique styles:

Plume Paris

For the fall 2012 line of Plume Paris frames, the designers actually traveled to France and drew inspiration from three different cities; Nice, Lyon, and Paris. Several of their other frames are inspired by retro 1940’s-60’s trends, while others envelope a more modern twist. All the design options available from Plume Paris leave a great variety to choose from when you look for your glasses- you’re bound to find a pair for you.

Bebe

Did you know that the brand name “bebe” was actually inspired by the line “to be or not to be” from Shakespeare’s Hamlet? The brand is all about attitude, mindset, and being a true original. Bebe has become a very popular brand throughout the years and has established their name among top women’s retailers. They embody modern and unique styles that really give eyeglasses a fun flare. Which of these stylish frames will you choose- that is the question.

Dolabany

These frames, handmade with Italian Zyl, made for the retro lover. The craftsmanship and materials used to create these stylish frames cannot be beaten. If you don’t believe us, take advice from Johnny Depp, Paul McCarthy or James Dean (well, maybe not James Dean)- just a few of the Hollywood stars that choose Dolabany frames.

Ann Taylor

Dolabany isn’t the only brand that has had great success with the celebrities they attract. The Ann Taylor brand has become a favorite style for modern women, including United States First Lady Michelle Obama, Kate Hudson, Angelina Jolie, Diane Kruger, Halle Berry, Jessica Alba and many more. Taylor’s line is known for versatility- easily transition from the office to a night out in these frames.

Jimmy Crystal New York

Established in 1991, Jimmy Crystal New York isn’t exactly a new kid on the block, but the brand has been hanging tough since its inception.The name Jimmy Crystal was actually created because of the unique Swarovski Crystal embedded frames and Sunglasses they create. This brand can really make your personality ‘sparkle’ with its standard of elegance.

As you can see, Infinite Eye Care carries several designer brands that are unique and can really cater to everyone’s needs. These five brands are just the beginning; we offer many more name brands designers. Stop in Infinite Eye Care, and we guarantee you will walk out with a look you love!

We Know How To Do Frames At Infinite Eye Care

At Infinite Eye Care, we strive to create the best possible experience for our clients. Part of doing this is being experts in different frames. This ranges from knowing what is popular, stocking a variety of different types and knowing what glasses go well with your face shape.

When browsing our website, you may be wondering what our best selling frames are. For women, the Zyl (which are plastic like) are a top seller. Overall, large eye size frames are quite popular- Police, Gant, and London Fog all offer these thick, larger size frames! For men, black or dark colored frames, metal, and smaller eye size frames are top sellers. Examples of brands that offer these features are Callaway, Evatik, and Michael Ryan. For the kids, the brands Bongo, Jallepeno, Quick Silver, and Superflex are usually their top choice! A lot of kids like neon, vibrant colored frames.

We know frames can be quite the investment, so how often should you replace your frames? We recommend one new pair every one to two years, depending on how rough you might be on your frames. Sun Rx frames should be replaced every two years. When purchasing your next pair of sunglasses, consider transition glasses. These sunglasses can be used both indoors and outdoors. For people on the go, this may be the best choice! On top of this, we offer anti-reflective glasses. 

As far as picking out the right shape of frame for your particular face shape, a way to find out your shape is by pulling your hair back and look into the mirror. The general rule is playing against your facial contours. Find the right pair of glasses for your face shape here.

At Infinite Eye Care we take pride in that we provide a wide selection of frames for you to choose from. We are always ready to help you find the right type of glasses that work best for you. When you stop in at Infinite Eye Care you will truly see that we have the perfect frames for you! 

Infinite Eye Care Dr. Tom Johnson

We believe that innovative, comprehensive, patient centered vision care is of infinite value to our clients. Our aim is to deliver personalized recommendations, quality products and unparalleled service to our patients, enhancing the quality of their lives in immeasurable ways.

We offer personalized vision services. Dr. Tom and the staff will get to know you and your individualized eye care needs. We believe that establishing personal relationships is good business and good for the community. We know our customers names, our atmosphere is relaxed, we provide one on one consultation and customer satisfaction is everything to us.

Preventative care is a cornerstone of our practice. We strongly encourage our patients to schedule an annual vision exam. MOST INSURANCE PROGRAMS PAY FOR AN ANNUAL VISION EXAM. Our practice accepts almost all insurance plans.

Our retail eyewear selection includes the latest eye care technology and fashion. Our selections include:

• Crizal No Glare Lenses
• Callaway Sunglasses
• 7eye Eyewear
• Michael Kors Eyewear
• Wildflower Eyeglasses
• bebe Eyewear
• Rampage Eyewear
• GANT Eyewear
• Scott Harris Eyewear
• London Fog Eyewear
• Jalapenos Eyewear
• Bulova Eyewear
• Natori Eyewear
• Joseph Abboud Collection
• Michael Ryen
• William Rast

For our patients with higher prescriptions we recommend Digital lenses. These lenses work great for bifocal users and people with high amounts of astigmatism.

Come on over to Infinite Eye Care and meet our staff, Dr. Tom, Tonja, Cindy, Lindsey, and Darlene. We are your local eye care professionals.