Monocle Size & Fitting Guide
Welcome to the definitive Monocle Madness™ Size & Fitting Guide. Selecting the perfect monocle is crucial for both comfort and style, and we are here to help you find the ideal fit. We have created a comprehensive guide and a downloadable PDF fitting template to walk you through every step, ensuring your new monocle fits perfectly from the moment it arrives.
Why Monocle Sizing Matters
A well-fitted monocle not only enhances your vision but also adds a touch of elegance to your style. Unlike traditional spectacles that rely on a bridge and temples to stay on the face, a monocle is held in place by the orbital muscles around the eye and the specialised gallery — the raised rim that cradles the lens and rests against the soft skin just beneath your eyebrow and above your eyelid.
If a monocle is too large, it may not sit securely within the eye socket. If it is too small, it may require excessive squinting to hold in place, leading to discomfort. Finding the correct diameter ensures a secure, comfortable, "no-grip" fit that feels natural and looks effortless.
Our Monocle Sizes Explained
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35mm — The Standard Fit
Shop 35mm MonoclesOur most popular size, designed to fit the vast majority of facial structures comfortably. This size offers a classic, understated look that is perfect for everyday wear, reading, or as a subtle fashion statement. If you are unsure which size to choose, the 35mm is the safest starting point for most individuals.
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40mm — The Large Fit
Shop 40mm MonoclesOur larger size, offering a broader diameter ideal for individuals with larger facial features or deeper eye sockets. It is also an excellent choice for those who prefer a more dramatic, statement-making piece of eyewear. The larger lens provides a slightly wider field of view, which some wearers prefer for reading or detailed work.
How to Measure for a Monocle at Home
Determining your ideal monocle size is a straightforward process you can complete at home in just a few minutes. We recommend using our free printable cut-out template for the most accurate results.
The Printable Cut-Out Template (Recommended)
Our downloadable PDF template is the best way to visualise how a 35mm or 40mm monocle will fit your eye. Follow these simple steps:
- Download the PDF Template: Click the button below to download the fitting template PDF to your device.
- Print at 100% Scale: For accurate results, print on standard A4 or letter-sized paper. Do not use any "scaling" or "fit-to-page" options in your print settings, as this will alter the dimensions.
- Cut Out the Template: Carefully cut out the circles along the designated lines. Then trim to the rim of the monocles to get the exact cut-outs representing both the 35mm and 40mm sizes.
- Mount on Card (Optional but Recommended): For a more rigid and accurate fitting experience, stick the paper cut-outs onto a piece of stiff card using glue or double-sided tape, then trim the edges neatly.
- Test the Fit: Hold the cut-out up to your eye. It should rest comfortably within the orbital socket — neither too tight nor too loose.
Stick the monocle template onto card and then try each for the perfect fit. Paul has the 40mm in his right eye and the 35mm in his left eye.
Behind the scenes
Tips for a Secure, Comfortable Fit
Once you have your cut-out or your new monocle, keep these tips in mind to ensure a perfect fit every time.
Mirror Check: Use a mirror to check how the template or monocle fits over your eye. It should look balanced and sit relatively flat against the face, with the gallery resting gently between the cheekbone and brow bone.
The Comfort Test: Move your head slightly from side to side and up and down. A well-fitted monocle should stay in place securely without the need to squint or grip tightly with your facial muscles.
The "No-Grip" Technique: A modern monocle with a gallery is designed to rest gently between the cheekbone and the brow bone — you should never need to squeeze your eye shut to hold it. For detailed instructions on this technique, visit our How to Wear a Monocle guide.
Test Multiple Sizes: If you are using the printable template and remain unsure between the 35mm and 40mm, test both extensively in front of a mirror before making your final decision.
Ready to Find Your Perfect Monocle?
Once you have found the right size using our template, you are ready to make your purchase with confidence. Whether you are selecting a piece from our Reading Monocles collection or ordering a Custom Prescription Monocle, you can be assured of a comfortable and elegant fit.
Monocle Sizing
Frequently Asked Questions
What size monocle should I buy?
For most individuals, we recommend starting with the 35mm standard size, as it is designed to fit the vast majority of facial structures comfortably. If you know you have larger facial features or prefer a bolder, more prominent look, the 40mm large size may be the better choice. When in doubt, download our free printable fitting template to test both sizes before purchasing.
How do I know if a monocle will fit my eye?
A properly fitting monocle should rest comfortably within the orbital socket, gently supported by the cheekbone below and the brow bone above. It should stay securely in place without requiring you to actively squint or squeeze your facial muscles. The best way to gauge this before purchasing is to use our free printable cut-out template, which lets you physically test both sizes at home.
What is the difference between a 35mm and 40mm monocle?
The primary difference is the diameter of the lens and frame. The 35mm is our standard size, offering a classic and subtle appearance that suits most people. The 40mm has a wider diameter, making it suitable for broader faces or for those seeking a larger field of view and a more dramatic aesthetic. Both sizes use the same gallery design for a secure, no-grip fit.
Do I need a custom prescription monocle?
In most cases, no. Our standard 35mm and 40mm sizes, combined with the innovative gallery design, provide a secure and comfortable fit for almost everyone. However, if you have highly specific vision requirements or a prescription, we offer fully customised lenses through our Custom Prescription Monocles service.
Can I use the fitting template for a prescription monocle?
Yes. The fitting template measures the physical frame diameter, which is the same for both our reading and custom prescription monocles. Once you have confirmed your preferred size using the template, you can proceed to order a custom prescription lens in that same diameter. Visit our Prescription Monocle Info page for full details on ordering a prescription lens.
What if the monocle keeps falling out?
If your monocle keeps falling out, it is most likely a technique issue. First, ensure you are using the correct "no-grip" technique — the gallery should rest against your bone structure, not be squeezed by your muscles. If it still feels loose, your monocle may be slightly too small for your eye socket. We recommend revisiting our How to Wear a Monocle guide for a full troubleshooting walkthrough.
Explore More Monocle Guides
Now that you know your size, explore our other guides to get the most from your monocle. Learn How to Wear a Monocle with our step-by-step masterclass, find the right reading strength with our Monocle Strength & Power Guide, or discover everything about the history and modern uses of the monocle on our What is a Monocle? page.