There was a time when wearing glasses was the mark of a nerd, but those days are long gone. Now, wearing glasses – even if your vision is fine – can be a fashion statement, and these shops will help you put an exclamation point on your style.
A new pair of glasses needs to offer the perfect mix of fashion and function – and sometimes that means trying on several dozen pairs before finding the right one. At Spectacle, you’ll find the best selection in the business, including higher-end brands, including Paul Smith, Oliver Peoples and Ellisor, that understand how important it is to look good. The staff here takes a laid-back approach, so you can try on as many frames as you want without being hassled.
The awesome name will get you through the door and the stylish frames and lenses on offer here will make you a customer for life. You won’t find a warehouse-like selection, but that’s because owner Kim feels it’s better to focus on quality, not quantity. You’ll find frames here worthy of fashion magazine centrefolds. Be prepared for some compliments after you pick out your next pair.
This is one of the oldest optical names in West Queen West, with Tony and Graham having started their business way back in 1969 on London’s Knightsbridge Green. In 1982, they handpicked their very own optical designer and strengthened their reputation as premier stylists in the optical field, giving Torontonians a taste of the leading European fashions. They set trends instead of following them, and offer extra services you won’t find in other optical stores, like complimentary polishing.
Buying eyeglasses, especially with a strong prescription, can easily set you back hundreds of dollars. But instead of shopping at one of the unmentionable big box stores, combine savings and boutique services by getting brand name glasses here. They carry names like Ray-Ban, Tom Ford and Salt, at prices that won’t break the bank. You can also opt for an eye exam before you pick your frames to save some more time and money.
They’re trendy and hip, and it seems like they’re always running some kind of sale, so make sure you check online or visit Groupon for savings. The staff is quite knowledgeable about various eyeglass extras, such as hydrophobic coating and scratch resistance, but are never pushy or overbearing. You’re free to browse all the styles and brands they carry at your own pace. If you have questions or are indecisive, help is always just a question away.