I needed glasses since the age of six but resisted buying new ones because frames were either expensive or not very attractive. One night, while watching the news, I learned about Warby Parker. It’s a company that sells affordable eyewear and gives back to worthy causes.
It always feels good to buy products from companies that work with charitable organizations and that gave me the incentive to see what they had to offer. Warby Parker donates a portion of its sales to non-profits that train people in third-world countries to give eye exams and provide affordable eyeglasses to their communities. The program is called “Buy One Give One” It also provides eye exams and glasses to low-income school children in New York and Baltimore.
If that isn’t a good incentive, what is?
I was a little skeptical about buying glasses online but I found Warby Parker’s website to be interactive, helpful, and fun. You can take a quiz on the website to determine your best frame style (glasses or sunglasses) based on your face size and shape, frame preferences, colors, and the type of material the frames are built on.
After a quick calculation, you are then directed to a page that gives you the top picks selected for you.
The company’s “Home Try-On” program allows you to choose 5 frames to try on at home for 5 days. The box arrives with a shipping label so you can easily ship it back after your try-on session.
Watch the video below to see the box I received in the mail and the frames I tried on. Prices start at $95.
My choice was “Chelsea Violet Magnolia” frames and I submitted my order online. You can also call or text. During checkout, I uploaded a scanned copy of my prescription. You have the choice of ordering regular or progressive lenses. I was amazed at how affordable the prices are. Each frame is made in-house with sustainable materials.
Who knew buying glasses would be so easy?
After submitting my order, I received an email with questions to check if I received exactly what I needed. The representative noted that I had an “ADD” on my prescription, and asked if I wanted regular or progressive lenses. Progressives cost a little more but the price is still reasonable. I decided to go with regular lenses because, at the time, I wore contacts and only needed my glasses as a backup.
I was given the choice of:
- Option 1: Distance (single-vision): for driving or looking at a clock across the room
- Option 2: Intermediate (single-vision): for using a computer screen or anything about an arm’s length away
- Option 3: Reading (single-vision): for close-up work like reading and writing
I chose Option 2.
They also asked me to use their PD Tool to measure pupillary distance which is the space between your eyes.
Then, I clicked a link and was taken back to their website. A button appeared and I clicked it making a camera appear on my screen. (It also works with smartphones or tablets) I was told to take a credit card and place the stripe directly under my nose. Then, I clicked to take a selfie of myself and uploaded it to the website with the click of a button. It was immediately received on their end and I received an email confirmation. I couldn’t believe how easy it was.
Once your order is submitted an email will be sent to you when it’s ready to ship.
Yippee! My Warby Parker glasses arrived!
My glasses were at my door within a week and they were fabulous!
The entire ordering experience was pleasant through and through. I hope you give them a try as well!
If you need eyeglasses or sunglasses, go to the Warby Parker website and order your Home Try-On box. The company is now offering contact lenses. If you decide to purchase, you’ll feel good knowing that you’ve helped others in need to receive an eye exam or affordable glasses.
You can bet I’ll be back to order a pair of sunglasses.
What’s important to you when you buy glasses or sunglasses? Please leave a comment below.
Ellen Dolgen says
This is so timely! I am in need of getting my eyes checked! After that is done and I find out if my prescription needs changing, I am def going to get some new glasses. Thanks for the tips! This seems so easy!
Rebecca Forstadt-Olkowski says
Thanks, Ellen. I thought the online shopping experience was fun. I hope you do too!
Doreen McGettigan says
This is timely for me too! I’m looking forward to checking them out. I’m not a fan of choosing glasses so easy sounds perfect.
Rebecca Forstadt-Olkowski says
It really was easy and the styles are so cute. I hope you check it out.
Estelle says
I just got my first pair–I got the progressives and love them. Like you, my last pair cost a fortune and these didn’t.
Rebecca Forstadt-Olkowski says
Very coo;, Estelle. That’s so good to know. I was surprised at how affordable they are.