Modular eyeglass frame system and methods for their use and manufacture. Exemplary frame systems include an eyeglass frame base having a top edge, a removable element having a top edge that substantially matches the top edge of the frame base, and one or more attachment elements operative to removably attach the removable element to the frame base. The frame base includes a first channel and a second channel suitable for partially enclosing a first lens and a second lens; and the removable element includes a first channel and a second channel, each removable element channel being configured such that when the removable element is attached to the frame base, the first and second channels of the frame base align with the first and second channels of the removable element to fully enclose a periphery of the first lens and the second lens. The one or more attachment elements secure the removable element to the frame base such that the two-piece frame system is substantially as durable as a solid one-piece frame.