Title: Chic Simple: Eyeglasses Authors: Kim Johnson Gross and Jeff Stone Year 1994 Publisher: Alfred A. Knopf, Inc. Price: $12.50 US Review by: Mike Agger Tripod Rating (out of four): 3

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Perhaps it was the Russian literature class, or the many hours spent staring into the computer screen. Whatever the reason, my doctor told me that I needed glasses. Eyeglasses! Having always had perfect vision, glasses seemed to herald the beginning of my bodily decline. After receiving a prescription, I reluctantly went to the local eyewear store and bought a pair of round tortoise shell frames. I wish now that I had Chic Simple's "Eyeglasses" as a guide. The book is compact, beautifully designed, and fun to read. It begins with a brief history of eyeglasses and then describes the various types of frames. Practical advice, like how to properly store, clean, and fit your glasses, is sprinkled throughout. You learn what style of frame was preferred by luminaries like Le Corbusier or Jodie Foster and the excellent photographs offer plenty of ideas for your own face. The back of the book even lists great eyewear stores in cities all across America. Chic Simple will make you excited to wear glasses, especially if you are bored with your old frames. Now, if you will excuse me, as I need to go pick up my new pair of bamboo colored horn rims.

FYI: Part of the Chic Simple "Components" series, which includes: Bath, Bed Linens, Packing, Paint, Scarves, Shirt and Tie, and Scents.

"Metal. Because glasses were first worn by the wealthy, some of the earliest material used in them were, naturally, luxurious - gold and silver. Later, as wearing glasses became more wide spread, light steel and wire were very fashionable - and certainly cheaper. As technology advanced in this century, lighter metals - such as nickel in the Twenties, aluminum in the Sixties and Seventies - proved popular. Today, metal frames, especially titanium, are enjoying a renaissance (particularly in sunglasses) because they're durable and reflect a certain asceticism - despite the price tag. Just as with plastic frames, the same rules apply when choosing metal frame color: follow hair color and skin tones."
(p. 62)

"Chic Simple: Eyeglasses" will help you see better. Why? Because it will help you pick a frame that looks and feels comfortable, not self-conscious. It is also an inviting book that you will enjoy leaving at the breakfast table or on the mantle for friends to read.

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Tripod members give this book 2.3 wrenches so far.

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