The Bloomsbury

Understanding Frame Sizing: A Heritage Approach to the Perfect Fit

At Savile Row Eyewear, we believe that truly exceptional eyewear begins with the perfect fit. Just as a bespoke suit is tailored to your exact measurements, your handcrafted frames should complement your unique features with precision and grace. Understanding frame sizing is the first step toward finding eyewear that not only looks distinguished but feels effortlessly comfortable throughout the day.

This guide will help you navigate the world of eyewear measurements with confidence, ensuring your next pair of Savile Row frames fits as beautifully as they're crafted.

Decoding Your Frame Measurements

Every pair of quality eyewear carries three essential measurements, typically printed discreetly on the inside of the temple arms. These numbers tell the story of how a frame is proportioned and how it will sit on your face.

Eye Size (Lens Width)

The first number you'll encounter—for example, 47—represents the horizontal width of each lens, measured in millimetres. This is perhaps the most crucial measurement, as it determines how much of your face the frame will cover and how the proportions will balance with your features.

A smaller eye size (typically 45-48mm) suits those with more delicate facial features, while a larger measurement (50-54mm) provides a bolder, more substantial presence. Our classic Panto frames, for instance, are available in multiple eye sizes to ensure the perfect proportion for every face.

Bridge Size (Nose Bridge Width)

The second number—such as 20—indicates the width of the bridge that rests on your nose, again in millimetres. This seemingly small detail plays a significant role in both comfort and aesthetics.

A well-fitted bridge ensures your frames sit securely without pinching or sliding, while also determining how close or far apart the lenses sit in relation to your eyes. The bridge measurement affects the overall width of the frame across your face, contributing to that essential balance between style and wearability.

Temple Length (Arm Length)

The third measurement—for example, 145mm—represents the length of the temple arms that extend from the frame front, curve around your ears, and hold your glasses securely in place.

Temple length is particularly important for long-term comfort. Arms that are too short may feel tight and cause pressure, while those that are too long can slip and require constant adjustment. At Savile Row, we offer various temple lengths, including our distinctive Windsor and Beaufort temple options, each designed to provide both comfort and character.

Where to Find Your Current Measurements

If you're wearing glasses now, simply remove them and look along the inside of the temple arms. You'll typically find these three numbers printed there, often separated by small squares or dashes—for example: 47□20-145.

These measurements from your current, comfortable frames provide an excellent starting point when selecting your next pair of Savile Row eyewear.

Experience Frames Virtually Before You Decide

Understanding the numbers is valuable, but seeing is believing. Our innovative Virtual Try-On technology allows you to visualise how different frame sizes and shapes complement your unique features—all from the comfort of your home.

Simply select any frame from our collection, activate the try-on feature, and watch as our handcrafted designs appear on your face in real-time. You can compare different sizes, explore various styles, and gain confidence in your selection before making your investment.

This modern tool brings the traditional fitting room experience to your fingertips, helping you discover which proportions best suit your face shape and personal aesthetic.

Professional Guidance from Your Local Optometrist

While our virtual tools and sizing guides provide excellent guidance, there's no substitute for professional expertise. Your local optometrist can provide precise measurements of your facial features, assess your current frame fit, and offer personalised advice on which sizes will serve you best.

They can also discuss your prescription requirements and ensure that your chosen frame size will accommodate your lenses comfortably—particularly important for stronger prescriptions or progressive lenses.

We encourage all our customers to consult with their trusted eyecare professional as part of the frame selection process. Their expertise, combined with our craftsmanship, ensures a truly exceptional result.

Personal Consultation with Our Managing Director

At Savile Row Eyewear, we believe in the value of personal service. That's why we offer complimentary 1-to-1 video consultations with our Managing Director—a rare opportunity to receive expert guidance directly from the heart of our brand.

During these private consultations, you can:

• Discuss your specific sizing questions and concerns
• Receive personalised frame fit advice based on your features
• Explore which collections best suit your style and requirements
• Learn about our heritage, craftsmanship, and materials
• Ask any questions about our frames, customisation options, or care

This bespoke service reflects our commitment to ensuring every customer finds not just a frame, but the perfect frame—one that will serve them beautifully for years to come.

To arrange your personal consultation, simply contact our customer service team, and we'll schedule a time that suits you.

Bespoke and Custom Sizing Options

Sometimes, exceptional fit requires exceptional measures. For customers with unique sizing requirements or those seeking something truly personal, we offer custom and bespoke frame options.

Our bespoke service allows for:

• Personalised sizing adjustments to suit your exact measurements
• Custom temple lengths for optimal comfort and fit
• Modified bridge widths for distinctive facial features
• Made-to-order frames in specific proportions
• Tailored combinations of our signature design elements

This is where our heritage of British craftsmanship truly shines. Just as Savile Row tailors have created bespoke garments for generations, we apply that same philosophy to eyewear—creating frames that are uniquely, unmistakably yours.

If you're interested in exploring custom or bespoke options, we invite you to contact us directly. Our team will guide you through the possibilities and help bring your vision to life with the precision and care that defines our brand.

The Importance of Proper Sizing

Choosing the correct frame size is about far more than aesthetics—though that certainly matters. Proper sizing ensures:

Lasting Comfort
Frames that fit correctly can be worn all day without pressure points, pinching, or the need for constant adjustment. This is particularly important for our handcrafted frames, which are designed to become trusted companions for years.

Visual Balance
Well-proportioned frames complement your facial features rather than overwhelming or underwhelming them. The right size creates harmony between your eyewear and your natural proportions.

Optical Performance
Proper sizing ensures your eyes are correctly positioned within the lenses, maximising your visual clarity and the effectiveness of your prescription.

Long-Term Wearability
Frames that fit well from the start will continue to serve you beautifully over time. Our premium materials and construction are designed for longevity, and proper sizing ensures you'll enjoy that quality for years to come.

Preserving the Quality of Your Handcrafted Frames

Your Savile Row Eyewear frames are meticulously handcrafted from premium materials including 18kt rolled gold and Mazzuchelli acetate. With proper care and maintenance, these luxury frames will maintain their beauty and functionality for years to come. Follow our expert care guide to protect your investment and ensure your eyewear remains in pristine condition.

Daily Care and Handling

Avoid Chemical and Liquid Contact

To preserve the quality and finish of your handcrafted frames, we recommend avoiding contact with:

Chemicals: Perfumes, hairsprays, cosmetics, cleaning products, and chlorine can damage the frame finish and coatings. Apply these products before putting on your glasses, and allow them to dry completely.

Seawater and Saltwater: Salt can corrode metal components and damage acetate frames. If your glasses do come into contact with seawater, rinse them immediately with fresh lukewarm water and dry gently.

Harsh Liquids: Avoid exposing your frames to alcohol-based cleaners, acetone, or other solvents that can strip protective coatings and damage premium materials.

Proper Wearing Habits

Never Rest Glasses on Your Head
While it may be tempting to push your glasses up onto your head when not in use, this practice can cause the temple arms to widen and loosen over time, resulting in an ill-fitting frame. Instead, remove your glasses completely and store them safely in their protective case.

Use Both Hands
When putting on or removing your glasses, use both hands to gently grip the temple arms. This prevents twisting and maintains proper alignment of the frame.

Cleaning Your Savile Row Frames

The Proper Cleaning Method

To keep your luxury eyewear looking immaculate, follow these steps:

Step 1: Rinse with Lukewarm Water
Gently rinse your frames under lukewarm (never hot) water to remove dust, debris, and oils. This prevents scratching during the cleaning process.

Step 2: Apply Neutral Soap (Optional)
For stubborn residue or buildup, apply a small amount of neutral, pH-balanced soap to the frames. Avoid harsh detergents or dish soaps with added moisturizers or fragrances.

Step 3: Gently Clean by Hand
Using your fingertips, gently clean all parts of the frame, paying special attention to nose pads, hinges, and temple tips where oils and debris accumulate.

Step 4: Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse away all soap residue with lukewarm water, ensuring no cleaning product remains on the frame or lenses.

Step 5: Dry with Your Savile Row Pouch
Gently pat dry using the microfiber pouch provided with your purchase. Never use paper towels, tissues, or rough fabrics that can scratch lenses and damage frame finishes.

What to Avoid When Cleaning

❌ Never use hot water (can damage coatings and warp acetate)
❌ Avoid ultrasonic cleaners (can loosen components)
❌ Don't use household glass cleaners (contain harsh chemicals)
❌ Never clean with your clothing (can scratch lenses)
❌ Avoid abrasive materials or rough cloths

Proper Storage for Longevity

Daily Storage

When not wearing your Savile Row frames, always store them properly to prevent damage:

Use Your Protective Case
Place your glasses inside the microfiber pouch provided, then store in the protective hard case that came with your purchase. This dual-layer protection prevents scratches, impacts, and environmental damage.

Choose the Right Environment
Store your eyewear in a cool, dry place away from:

• Direct sunlight and heat sources
• High humidity areas (bathrooms, kitchens)
• Extreme temperature fluctuations
• Areas where they might be sat on or crushed

Avoid Hot Environments

Temperature Warning: Never leave your glasses in hot environments for prolonged periods, such as:

• Car dashboards or glove compartments
• Direct sunlight through windows
• Near radiators or heating vents
• In saunas or hot tubs

Excessive heat can cause acetate frames to warp, deform, or lose their shape, and can damage lens coatings. This type of heat damage is often irreversible and is not covered under warranty.

Professional Maintenance

When to Seek Professional Care

While daily care can be handled at home, certain situations require professional attention:

• Loose or damaged screws
• Bent or misaligned frames
• Damaged nose pads
• Scratched or damaged lenses
• Any structural damage to the frame

Contact our customer service team or visit a qualified optician for professional adjustments and repairs. Never attempt to force bent frames back into shape, as this can cause permanent damage to handcrafted components.

Quick Care Reference Guide

DO:
✓ Clean with lukewarm water and neutral soap
✓ Dry with your Savile Row microfiber pouch
✓ Store in the protective case when not in use
✓ Keep in cool, dry environments
✓ Use both hands when handling
✓ Seek professional help for adjustments

DON'T:
✗ Expose to chemicals, perfumes, or seawater
✗ Rest glasses on top of your head
✗ Leave in hot cars or direct sunlight
✗ Use hot water or harsh cleaners
✗ Clean with clothing or paper towels
✗ Attempt DIY repairs on damaged frames

Protecting Your Investment

Your Savile Row Eyewear represents a significant investment in quality, craftsmanship, and timeless British style. By following these care guidelines, you'll ensure your handcrafted frames maintain their beauty, functionality, and structural integrity for many years to come.

Proper care isn't just about preservation—it's about honouring the artistry and craftsmanship that went into creating your unique pair of luxury eyewear.

For additional care questions or professional maintenance, please don't hesitate to contact our customer service team. We're here to help you get the most from your Savile Row frames.

Warmly,
The Savile Row Eyewear Team