Where can you buy sunglasses?
Online and in-store eyewear retailers, along with doctor’s offices, have countless styles, colors and brands of shades to choose from. You can customize new sunglasses with your vision prescription and preferred lens features. But with so many options, it can be difficult to know where you should purchase sunglasses.
To narrow down the search, consider your priorities when buying your next pair of sunglasses. For example, you may be focused on:
Convenience
Budget
Brand names
Vision correction
Overall selection
Wherever you shop, it’s important to get high-quality sunglasses that suit your face shape, fashion sense and lifestyle. Above all, they should provide complete ultraviolet (UV) protection against the sun’s harmful rays.
Here are some of the top places to consider when choosing a good place to buy your next pair of sunglasses:
Online retailers for sunglasses
Many people find that buying sunglasses online is more convenient than shopping in-store. There are thousands of styles to choose from and no business hours to work around. Depending on your needs, online retailers may also be more cost-effective than in-store options.
In-store retailers for sunglasses
Buying glasses in-store has its advantages too. Experts can fit you for your frames, recommend flattering products, and educate you on new styles and features as you browse. It’s a more personal experience than shopping through a screen.
For practicality: Your eye doctor’s office
Some people don’t like to spend a great deal of time shopping for sunglasses. If you need new glasses or prescription sunglasses, consider shopping in your eye doctor’s optical store after your annual eye exam. This is a convenient way to get multiple things done at once.
You may also feel more comfortable going directly through your doctor and their staff for prescription sunglasses. This is especially true if you have a strong or complex prescription that may be difficult for online retailers to fill.
Your eye doctor may recommend specific lens features based on your vision needs and daily activities. Having this fresh in your mind as you begin to shop can be helpful. It may also make the experience feel more personal.
High-quality eyewear is usually a given in your doctor’s optical shop, along with a certified optician that can help you find the right frames and fit them properly for you.
Tips for choosing where to buy sunglasses
Certain things may be more important to you when it comes to finding the right place to buy sunglasses. You may value great customer service more than a budget-friendly selection. Or you may want to get your vision exam and new glasses ordered at the same time and in the same place.
Here are some tips to help improve your sunglasses buying experience, whether in-store or online:
Ensure any sunglasses you choose have 100% UV protection. Reputable retailers will make this easy to confirm.
Check the return and exchange policies before making a purchase.
Read reviews to gain insight about product quality and customer service.
Take advantage of sales. Don’t be afraid to ask if a store offers price-matching, rebates or other discounts.
Ask questions if you’re unsure about a product. Opticians and representatives are usually eager to help you find the right frames.
Ask what the current trends are and if any would be flattering for your face shape.
Ask if any extra lens features would be beneficial for your use of the sunglasses.
Check for certificates of authenticity before purchasing designer frames. If the retailer can’t provide proof of authenticity, they may be selling counterfeit merchandise.
Keep your vision prescription handy. This makes the ordering process easier, both online and in person. (Your eye doctor should give you a copy after your eye exam.)
Use your vision insurance to help with the cost of prescription eyewear.
Do your research. Read shopping guides and browse different retailers so you can make the right decision for your needs.
It can be a little nerve-wracking to choose your next pair of sunglasses. But asking questions, doing your research and trying on a few pairs can help make it a good shopping experience.
Find the right pair of sunglasses
Whether you’re on the hunt for budget-friendly options or you’re looking for a place to buy prescription sunglasses, there are many outlets to choose from.
Both online and brick-and-mortar optical stores have advantages and disadvantages. The right option for you depends on your personal needs and preferences. Physical stores are great for in-person fittings and services. Online retailers often have more choices for those on a budget or those who want to shop a wider variety of frames.
Don’t hesitate to ask questions about the latest fashions and lens features, and anything else that may influence your decision. And remember that having 100% UV protection is just as important as expressing your personal style.
Be sure to get a comprehensive eye exam every one to two years to update your vision prescription and check the health of your eyes. Contact your eye doctor if it’s time to schedule an appointment.
