If you’ve been following me for quite some time (or hell, even in the last few weeks), you’ll notice a few constants in my content:
I’m usually never without some sort of smile (sorry, Tyra. I’ve never learned how to master the “smize.” But for real, TEACH ME PLS)
There most likely is some mention of cheese or mozzarella sticks (preferably from Applebee’s, mmk)
I’m always and I mean always wearing my glasses
And while I’d love to dedicate a full blog post on the masterpiece that is a mozzarella stick from Applebee’s (that’s for a different day, y’all), I really want to focus on the third statement.
From the time I was in 5th grade I’ve worn glasses constantly. And as one does when they’re growing up, they go through phases – specifically mine was experimenting with different frames. From wireframes to big and bulky specs, I’ve tried it all. Over the last few years (and as I start to get a bit older), I’ve settled on classic styles that elevate my look.
And when talking about my “look” – glasses have become a part of mine. In fact, I’m pretty sure that if asked to describe me, they’d either say “full of energy” or “glasses” within the first few seconds.
If we’re being totally honest, I love my glasses, too. They have almost become a part of me and my identity. Hell, the majority of my memories are with glasses on. But with most memories, you almost always remember the good ones and shove the darker ones down a bit and say “chill” for a second or two.
While this may sound very melodramatic, there have been many times throughout my life where having glasses has been an absolute curse. Primarily at bars when drunk people ask to try them on and see what they look like. I’ve also had many occasions where they’ve just taken them off my face with me saying “do that again and I’ll kick your ass.” If I’m being honest, it feels a little violating even though it is usually harmless.
But what’s even worse are the times when I do have my glasses off (whether it’s to rub my eyes, clean my glasses, having them forcibly removed from my face, swimming, etc) where people say “whoa, I don’t even recognize who you are” or even worse – “I like you so much more with glasses.”
No doubt, it stung the first time I heard it. After hearing this a number of times, I started to believe it, too. Looking in the mirror without glasses left me vulnerable and awkward – a perfect opportunity to see my imperfections. Whether it was the dark circles under my eyes, the freckles or red dots on my skin, or the shape of my nose, I began to feel even worse about how I looked without glasses.
As I started to think about this more, I began to realize I was hiding behind my glasses. And while I love the way I look with them on, I love the person behind the frames – imperfections and all (still working on this one, as we all do).
After this realization and the fact that I am giving less f’s as I get older, I’m starting to experiment with glasses alternatives. While I’m not ready for Lasik, I recently got fit for contacts with Aveo.
Gone are the days of keeping one set of contacts to only lose them the following week. Aveo provides daily contacts that are breathable and hydrating – perfect for someone who has notoriously dry, bloodshot eyes. They’re comfortable and affordable – something that’s big for me since daily contacts can be expensive at other brands like Acuvue or 1-800-Contacts. Aveo cuts out all of the unnecessary stuff since they make and ship in-house. Oh, and they’re from SF which is music to my ears.
While I won’t be wearing contacts every single day, I’m making a conscious effort to wear them more – not only because I need practice putting them in, but because I am starting to get comfortable with showing myself sans glasses. Freckles and all.
Looking to join me on that contact lens train or just wanting to switch up your contacts? Use the promo code AIMEE40 for a FREE one month trial + 40% off the next month (expires 12/31/19). You can also check out other Aveo customer reviews here!
Thank you to Aveo for sponsoring this post. As always, all opinions and styling are my own. Thank you for supporting all The Ohio Transplant collaborations.