Full-Rim Glasses

Full rim glasses, also called full frame glasses or fully rimmed glasses, are frames where the rim completely surrounds the lens on all sides. The frame runs continuously around the top, sides, and bottom of the lens. Enclosing it entirely within the frame structure. This is the most widely worn frame type in prescription eyewear and covers virtually every shape, material, and style available.

Full rim frames are the most practical choice for stronger prescriptions. The surrounding rim conceals lens edge thickness on all sides, something that is more visible in semi-rimless or rimless designs. For prescriptions from around +/-3.00 and above, pairing with thinner high-index lenses provides the most natural, balanced appearance.

They also offer improved support for varifocal lenses. Ensuring stability across the full lens depth, particularly in the reading zone. Our optical team can advise on the most suitable lens index for your prescription.

Full rim frames are the most practical choice for varifocal lenses, as they provide complete support around the lens. Including the lower reading area, while also protecting the most vulnerable edge from damage. We recommend a minimum lens depth of 30mm for varifocals, which most full rim styles meet.

Full rim glasses have a complete frame surrounding the lens on all four sides. Offering the most structure, durability, and prescription flexibility.

Semi-rimless frames have a rim along the top of the lens only. With the lower edge held by a nylon cord or open groove, giving a lighter look with slightly less lens protection.

Rimless frames have no surrounding rim at all. The lenses are drilled and mounted directly to the bridge and temples. This creates the most minimal aesthetic but offering the least edge protection and working best with lighter prescriptions.

Full rim glasses are available in such a wide range of shapes and sizes. There is a full rim option to suit virtually every face shape.

The key is choosing the right frame style for your shaped face within the full rim category. Angular full rim frames such as rectangle and square styles add definition to round or oval faces. Rounder full rim shapes soften angular or square faces. Cat eye and browline styles lift the face and work well on heart or oblong face shapes.

Our face shape guide can help narrow down the best options for your features.

Full rim glasses are produced in the widest range of materials of any frame type. Materials include acetate, plastic, metal, titanium, TR90 and mixed material and Eco-friendly options. For full details on each material visit our Frame Materials page.

Full rim frames do use more material than semi-rimless or rimless alternatives, which can add a small amount of weight. In practice, the difference depends heavily on the material chosen. A full rim frame in titanium or TR90 will be lighter than a semi-rimless frame in thick acetate. Modern full rim frames in lightweight metals and thermoplastics are designed for comfortable all-day wear.

Yes. All Direct Sight full rim frames are available with prescription lenses, glazed in our UK laboratory and delivered direct to your door.

Simply browse our full rim glasses collection, select your frame, and enter your prescription at checkout. You can upload a photo of your prescription or enter the values manually. Our optical team is available to help with any questions about lens options, fit, or prescription suitability.