Q: What are cat-eye glasses?

“Cat-eye” refers to a specific <a href="https://www.warbyparker.com/learn/glasses-styles-and-shapes">style of glasses</a>. Cat-eye frames are classically known for their upswept browlines. In other words, the top corners where the <a href="https://www.warbyparker.com/learn/different-parts-of-glasses">temples (arms)</a> meet the front of the frames angle upward. On some frames those corners are downright pointy, and on others it may be more subtle.

Question 1

What are cat-eye glasses?

Accepted Answer

“Cat-eye” refers to a specific style of glasses. Cat-eye frames are classically known for their upswept browlines. In other words, the top corners where the temples (arms) meet the front of the frames angle upward. On some frames those corners are downright pointy, and on others it may be more subtle.

Question 2

What face shape do cat-eye glasses look good on?

Accepted Answer

Historically, the shape of cat-eye glasses tended to be very specific, but these days, there’s a wide range of cat-eye styles you can choose from. So you can find a pair of cat-eye frames for any face shape.

A common rule of thumb is to look for glasses frames with features that contrast with your facial features. For instance, if you have a round face with soft curves, look for frames with sleek, angular lines.

But the real secret is that any face shape can wear any style of glasses, so take guidelines about shopping for eyewear with a grain of salt—they’re guidelines, not hard-and-fast rules. If you find a pair of glasses you love that make you feel comfortable and confident, then they’re the ones for you.

Question 3

Why are cat-eye glasses so popular?

Accepted Answer

With their signature upturned browlines, cat-eye frames boast a unique look that other frame styles simply don’t have. Perhaps that’s why they’ve remained popular for nearly a century. Their upswept lines tend to draw the observer’s eye to the cheekbones and brow, while also appearing to uplift the face.

Question 4

Are cat-eye glasses in style?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Cat-eye glasses are truly timeless—they’ve continued to be a fashion favorite for decades (nearly a century)! One thing’s for certain: This style isn’t going anywhere anytime soon, so you can shop cat-eye frames to your heart’s content.

Question 5

What era are cat-eye glasses from?

Accepted Answer

Cat-eye glasses were invented nearly a century ago, but they really took off in the 1950s and ‘60s—likely thanks to actors popularizing them on television. Fast forward decades later, and the cat-eye look is still alive and well.

Cat-eye glasses

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Cat-eye glasses FAQs

What are cat-eye glasses?

What face shape do cat-eye glasses look good on?

Why are cat-eye glasses so popular?

Are cat-eye glasses in style?

What era are cat-eye glasses from?