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Las Vegas has quickly become a mecca for fashion and Vision Source Las Vegas is keeping in step, carrying the latest styles by the top designers. So if you're a busy mom on the go, a corporate executive or a sports fanatic, Vision Source Las Vegas has the frames that will fit your lifestyle.

If you're getting ready to buy your first or 50th pair of frames, there are a few tips you should know. Optician James Snow  A.B.O.C, Certified Optician with Vision Source Summerlin / Lakes , who has worn glasses since the age of 9, knows how important it is to have a pair of frames that fit comfortably. In his 12 years as an optician, James has fit nearly 40,000 faces in the perfect pair of frames ... here's how:

Q: What's the secret to finding a great pair of frames?

Before looking at frames, we consider the prescription and the person's lifestyle. We look at what the primary use of the glasses will be: work, sports or driving? Those two factors have a big impact on the direction we take with a patient. 

Do they need a polarized pair of sunglasses for outdoors, or will they be sitting in front of the computer all day? If they play sports, like tennis, racquetball or even skiing, we have to look at different options to fit their lifestyle.

Q: Can one pair of frames do it all?

Typically people will own up to three pairs of frames. I usually have three or four: one for seeing long distances, which I wear when I go to the movies, another pair for when I work at the computer and, of course, my prescription sunglasses.

Q: What is the most common mistake a patient makes when selecting a pair of frames?

Choosing a look or fashion over function. We want to see our patients in glasses that make them look great, but if they're too heavy, they'll slip and slide. For example, the frame may be too narrow where it pushes off the sides of the head. This can cause discomfort, and the next thing you know, that great looking pair of frames stays in its case instead of on the face where it belongs. 

Q: Is there a rule of thumb for selecting a certain shape or style of frame?

Yes, it's the opposites attract rule! Most people have an oval or round face; therefore the most common frame shape is rectangular. You want to pick a frame shape that's opposite of your face shape.

Of course, there are exceptions. If you have a round face and you really love the look of a more rounded frame, we'll steer you toward a rectangular frame with rounded edges, so the look is a little softer. Remember, it has to fit comfortably. It's always better to get a better fit than a pair of frames that you love when they're in the display case or in the pages of a magazine.

Q: Why does skin tone matter?

Some people look great in warm tones, and others look better in cooler tones. The color of the frame should complement your skin tone, not detract from it.

Q: What's big for men in frames?

What I'm noticing in Las Vegas is a trend back toward the double-bar bridge that was really popular in the 1980s. The modern version is much smaller ... thank goodness.

Q: And for women?

Women view their frames as an accessory, so they give style a great deal of consideration as much as say shoes or jewelry. So many styles are available for women today that it's hard to pinpoint one trend.

In Las Vegas I notice the closer you get to the strip, the more bling the women want on their glasses! Some want a Paris Hilton look and go for a big attention-grabbing pair of glasses. Others want something subtle and sleek.

As an optician, I want to be sure the fit is comfortable, and if the patient is happy with the style, then I'm happy too.

Q: Speaking of Paris, which celebrity do you feel is the best frame savvy when it comes to fashion and fit?

Sean Jean, his eyewear line is one of the best selling lines. He completely changed from a rapper (P. Diddy) to a philanthropist, and his eyewear line gives a percentage to children's charities. His frame styles are comfortable and well-styled. He looks great in the frames he chooses to wear too.

For women I'd say Paris Hilton ...she looks great in whatever frames she wears.

Q: When it comes to kids, should parents select frames they can grow into?

You can't hem frames, so my answer is no. It's extremely important that a child's frames fit comfortably, or they won't wear them. Kids will need new frames every year to keep up with their rate of growth. Their prescription may change every year as well, so it's critical parents have them back to our office annually.

Q: Do kids balk at having to wear glasses?

It's not like when I was a kid.  Glasses are now cool with the kids. My son begged me for a pair!

Q: What are special considerations parents should make when looking for their child's frames?

Durability.  Kids are harder on their glasses than adults. Boys more so than girls. I often suggest metal frames with nose pads; they're more durable. Kids have flatter bridges, so that's something to look at too.

Q: What's your secret to success as an optician?

The experience has to be tailored for every patient, so the process is always different. I try to understand their prescription, their lifestyle and what's going to make them feel good. The process is a unique experience for everyone. That's what makes my job interesting.

When he's not fitting Vision Source patients in great-looking frames, James Snow is busy writing music, playing guitar and trying to keep up with his 8-year-old son.