Refresh Your Look with a New Pair of Stylish and Sturdy Readers

best readers and reading glasses to buy

Giovanna Pineda/KCM

And, we explain why you might need readers sooner than you thought.

Remember your grandfather’s reading glasses? They were huge and bulky, possibly hung from his neck on a lanyard. Well, thankfully reading glasses have come a long way since then. First, they are now referred to simply as readers. And there are now a ton of incredibly chic options to choose from and plenty of ways to customize them. 

That’s great news because many of us should already have a pair handy, optometrist Robert Layman, OD told us. 

“Generally speaking, most people begin having problems seeing small print sometime after age 40, and these problems gradually worsen with age,” says Layman, the President of the American Optometric Association. And that change is just a natural part of getting older. 

When we enter our 40s, the lenses in our eyes gradually lose their ability to focus due to a condition called presbyopia. “Initially, you may need to hold reading materials farther away to see them more clearly, or you may need to remove your glasses to see better up close,” Layman says. “You may notice your eyes feel tired more quickly when reading. You may even start to get headaches when reading or using a computer extensively.”

Thankfully, a good pair of reading glasses should fix that. Progressives, which have multiple prescriptions built into the lens and can be comfortably worn all day, are the most popular type of readers, Layman says. A high-quality pair of reading glasses will have lenses that “maximize the usable portion of the lens and minimize the distortion on the side.” You should visit an eye doctor to determine your prescription and if over-the-counter readers are the right option for you, Layman says.

For those of you who already know how strong a pair of reading glasses you need and are looking for an upgrade, check out our round-up of great-looking readers. 

Caddis MIKLOS Reading Glasses

Caddis

These readers have a bold look that we love. And like all of Caddis’ products, they’re sturdy, stylish, and are partially blue-light blocking (which, research shows, can help you get a better night’s rest!). 

$130 at Caddis

Caddis Side Hustle

Caddis

Want to experiment with metallics in moderation? This flashy pair of readers has a touch of polish but not so much that you’ll blind someone with your new level of gleam.  The semi-square frame shape also manages to be a little serious and professorial while still retaining a sense of light-hearted fun.

$160 at Caddis

Caddis BIXBY Progressive Glasses

Caddis

If you’re after a pair with a little more flair, check out the Caddis Bixby. They’re available as both progressives and readers with a customizable prescription. 

$155 at Caddis

Warby Parker Hughes

Warby Parker

Warby Parker is another great brand that lets you try frames on at home before making a purchase. The Hughes have a super flattering angular frame that comes in an extra-narrow to wide fit. 

$95+ at Warby Parker

Warby Parker Gillian

Warby Parker

The Warby Parker Gillian has a slim frame for a sophisticated look. They come in solid black, tortoiseshell with a fun pop of turquoise, and clear frames with a beige tent. 

$95+ at Warby Parker

Warby Parker Simon

Warby Parker

It seems like we were collectively allergic to wire frames for a good decade, so we’re pleased that this lightweight option is coming back into fashion. We love this oval style because it won’t overwhelm most face shapes.

$145 at Warby Parker

Warby Parker York

Warby Parker

If you love the look of aviator sunglasses, we’re happy to announce that you can now bring the too-cool beachy aesthetic indoors. While we this classic gold style is particularly timeless, these frames also come in silver, rose gold, and brushed navy.

$145 at Warby Parker

Look Optic Sullivan

Look Optic

Look Optic customers have raved about how comfortable these lightweight frames are. The Sullivans come in different prescriptions (from +1 to +3) and are available in a variety of colors. 

$68 at Look Optic

OLIEYE Cat Eye Reading Glasses

Amazon

Looking for a budget pair of reading glasses? This ever-so-slightly retro pair — which is available on Amazon — pays respect to the Mad Men era without looking costumey.

$24 at Amazon

3 Pack Reading Glasses, Amazon

Amazon

If you’re the type that’s always misplacing your glasses, these readers from Amazon are for you. They come in a pack of three, so you’ll always have a spare!

$13 at Amazon