Horn-rimmed glasses are credited for popularizing eyeglasses as another avenue to express personal style. It became popular around the time when thin metal frames were more common, and wearing eyeglasses was generally attributed to the elderly or the "smart and frail" stereotype.
In the past, horn-rimmed glasses were made from animal horns, ivory, or tortoiseshell. They were thick, typically dark brown in color, and not at all inconspicuous like the thin metal frames that preceded them.
These days, horn-rimmed glasses are made from thick plastics like acetate. Sometimes, they're also combined with a metal bottom to give the illusion of a top-heavy frame.
Top Horn-Rimmed Glasses Picks for Men
Top Horn-Rimmed Glasses Picks for Women
Who Looks Good in Horn-Rimmed Glasses?
We consulted Abhi Madan, a co-founder and creative director for Amarra. He says your face shape and personal style should complement the statement that a pair of glasses can make.
Fortunately, anyone can look good in horn-rimmed frames as they are versatile eyeglasses. Whether you prefer plastic, metal, or a combination of materials, horn-rimmed glasses can provide a strong structure to the face while making you appear stylish.
Horn-rimmed eyewear can look good on numerous face shapes, including:
If you're wondering whether horn-rimmed glasses suit you, you can see how they look with the Warby Parker App's Virtual Try-On feature, available on iPhone X or above.
Where to Buy Glasses + Contacts
Best Overall: Warby Parker
Fastest Delivery: EyeBuyDirect
Also Great: Liingo
Best Place to Buy Contacts: Discount Contacts
Best Men’s Horn Rimmed Glasses
Warby Parker Ames Frames
With a bold brow line and generous width, Ames transitions easily from mornings on the quad to nights on the town.
Warby Parker Landon Frames
Landon is as go-with-the-flow as it gets. Its angled end pieces, down-turned square lenses, and shiny Graduated Rivets are all wrapped in one ’70s-inspired shape.
Warby Parker Halton Frames
Halton's quiet confidence comes from its outstanding features: a mid-century acetate silhouette with an angular bottom, Art Deco-inspired metal temples, sleek temple tips, and a Graduated Rivet design.
Best Women’s Horn Rimmed Glasses
Warby Parker Faye Frames
Faye packs poise and flourishes into a roundish, roomy, cat-eye shape that lets the layered acetate shine.
Warby Parker Maren Frames
Maren is a feminine, understated cat-eye with slightly upturned lenses, slim temple arms, and a Graduated Rivet design.
Warby Parker Jayla Frames
Jayla has a roomy mid-century acetate silhouette, Art Deco-inspired metal temples, sleek temple tips, and a Graduated Rivet style.
Other Notable Horn-Rimmed Frames For Men & Women
Madan gave further recommendations for horn-rimmed glasses. Here are a few notable stand-out brands that provide a timeless look:
- Ray-Ban Clubmaster. Known for their sturdy design and classic aesthetic
- Tom Ford FT5466. A fashion-forward pair of glasses with a tortoiseshell pattern
- Warby Parker Percey. A flexible modern take on the classic horn-rimmed, capable of accentuating different personal styles
- Gucci GG0051S. Clear acetate frames with a bold, dramatic edge, making them a statement piece
These picks are the perfect balance of functional and fashion-forward to suit men and women. You can also use them to accessorize a wide range of outfits, from business attire to evening wear.
Benefits of Horn-Rimmed Glasses
Horn-rimmed eyeglasses are incredibly durable and lightweight, making them comfortable for long hours. They also come in different colors, lens shapes, and sizes.
There's an option for everyone, regardless of face shape and personal style. Whether you prefer a semi-rimless or round frame, horn-rimmed glasses can add an element of sophistication and style to any look.
The classic clubmaster style is a highly favored version of horn-rimmed glasses, famously popularized by Ray-Ban. Horn-rimmed glasses have been a favorite among celebrities, intellectuals, and fashion icons for generations.
In this article
Best Places to Buy Glasses
Best Overall
Warby Parker has stylish, high-quality frames at affordable prices.
Also Great
Liingo Eyewear is another great option to buy glasses online.
Best on a Budget
EyeBuyDirect has a wide variety of budget frames starting at $6.
Best Places to Buy Contacts
Best Overall
Discount Contacts is our #1 recommendation to buy contacts online.
Also Great
GlassesUSA has a huge selection of contacts, glasses, & sunglasses.
