I've always needed glasses, and let me tell you, the cost can really add up! Between eye exams and frames, it feels like I'm constantly shelling out money. So, I started exploring different options to find affordable prescription glasses without sacrificing quality or style. My journey took me from online retailers to local Denver shops, and I learned a lot along the way. Hopefully, my experiences can help you find the perfect pair without breaking the bank.
Like many, I started my search at traditional optical stores. I remember visiting Target Optical, drawn in by their wide selection. They had so many styles, and the promise of insurance savings was enticing. But even with my vision insurance, the frames I liked were still pretty expensive. It felt like I was only getting a small discount, and I wondered if there were more affordable options out there.
That's when I started looking into online retailers. The prices were incredibly appealing, but I was hesitant. How could I be sure the glasses would fit? What if the prescription wasn't right? These questions swirled in my mind, making me cautious about taking the plunge.
Despite my initial reservations, I decided to give online glasses a try. I’d heard good things about Zenni Optical, so I placed my first order. The prices were unbelievably low – I'm talking under $50 for a complete pair of prescription glasses! I was thrilled, but also a little nervous. Would they actually be any good?
To my surprise, the glasses arrived quickly and were exactly what I expected. The prescription was accurate, and the frames were surprisingly stylish. I was so impressed that I decided to try another online retailer, EyeBuyDirect. I found a pair of sunglasses for around $35, including shipping! Again, I was pleased with the quality and fit. Of course, the strength of your prescription can affect the price, but for me, these online options were a game-changer.
While I had success with online retailers, I also wanted to explore local options in Denver. I'd heard about Warby Parker and their home try-on program. The idea of having five frames shipped to my house to try on was really appealing. It allowed me to see how the glasses looked on my face in the comfort of my own home, without the pressure of a sales associate hovering over me. The frames were priced around $90, and they accepted my insurance, which was a nice bonus.
I also stumbled upon ReplaceALens on Evans. They offered a different service: replacing the lenses in my existing frames. This was a great option for some older frames I loved, but whose lenses were scratched. I found their service cheaper than Costco, and the customer service was excellent.
While browsing online for unique frame styles, I discovered Cinily Net. They offer a wide variety of frames, and I was particularly drawn to their vintage-inspired designs. I ended up purchasing a pair of MERRYS DESIGN Women Cat Eye Glasses Frames. I was looking for something a little different, and the cat-eye shape really appealed to me. The acetate material felt sturdy and high-quality, and the transparent color was very on-trend.

They weren’t too expensive and added a fun touch to my everyday look. For me, Cinily Net offered a great balance of style and affordability, especially if you're looking for something a little different from the mainstream options. I also like that Cinily Net offers a wide range of accessories to care for your new glasses, so you can keep them in great condition. You can check out their homepage for more information.
Based on my experiences, here are some tips for buying prescription glasses online: