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Why Do I Need a Prescription to Buy Glasses?

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A pair of simple glasses resting on top of a prescription magnifies its values.

No prescription, no problem? Not quite—but getting an updated prescription for glasses is easier than you might think.

You need a valid prescription to purchase a pair because eyeglasses—trendy frames included—are considered medical devices. Your prescription details the exact lens measurements needed to help bring your world into focus. 

You can, of course, buy nonprescription or “fashion” glasses for style alone. But with a routine eye exam, you can get accurate, up-to-date prescription lenses customized to your vision needs.

The Benefits of Prescription Glasses

Obtaining a valid vision prescription isn’t intended to be a logistical hurdle; it’s an essential puzzle piece for maintaining healthy eyes and clear vision.

Your prescription is a personalized “blueprint” calculated by your optometrist after assessing your eyes during a comprehensive exam. The prescription is tailored especially for you, helping you see the world clearly. 

The key to an updated vision prescription is visiting your optometrist for a routine eye exam

These visits go beyond monitoring changes in your vision. An eye health evaluation allows your optometrist to detect potential concerns early, including eye diseases and general health conditions, encouraging timely intervention and preserving your eyesight.  

Most adults can manage with a routine eye exam every 2 years—even if you don’t currently wear corrective lenses—which complements glasses prescriptions, which are valid for 2 years. Your eyes can change more frequently than you realize, even subtly. 

You could be wearing outdated lenses if it’s been longer than 2 years since your last exam. Pay attention to symptoms like frequent eye strain or tension headaches, which can signal a need for a new prescription. Remember, even the trendiest frames can’t make up for fuzzy vision.

What Eyeglass Frames Are Currently in Style?

Regardless of your personal esthetic, our selection of frames can offer something comfortable and chic for everyone.

The year 2025 is all about finding and embracing your personal style, giving you a chance to explore a wide selection of trendy frames. Here’s a breakdown of some style trends we’re loving this year. 

Trending Frame Shapes

Our appreciation for vintage-inspired pieces hasn’t really left. But alongside retro frames, we’re seeing a more modern, minimalist trend arise.

Round Frames

Vintage-inspired and forever cool, round frames create a versatile look that can suit a range of face shapes. Look for metal finishes for a lightweight, breezy look.

Square & Rectangular Frames

For a sleek, professional take, these geometric shapes remain a go-to. 2025 sees bolder, chunkier touches taking over these timeless styles.

Oversized Frames

 If you love making a bold statement, oversized frames can craft an attention-grabbing, effortlessly chic look. Bold frames can make an otherwise simple style look upscale.

Thin Acetates & Metals

Thin, barely-there frames are perfect for a light and airy aesthetic. Try thin frames made of acetates and metals to achieve a curated, modern style.

Bright Pops of Color

Color-blocked frames in glowing oranges, vivid greens, and pastel lilacs add personality to your look. 

Frames for Your Face Shape

Truly, fashion has no rules. Eyewear is a form of self-expression. When you love a look, go for it—even when it breaks convention. However, if you’re having a hard time deciding where to start, consider trying on frames that can complement your facial features. 

Here’s a general guide: 

  • Oval faces generally suit any style, so play with bold shapes or standout colors
  • Round faces can balance their features & add definition with angular frames, like rectangles or squares
  • Heart-shaped faces can accentuate their features with lighter, rounded frames or semi-rimless styles
  • Square faces can soften features with circular or oval frames, creating a flattering silhouette 

Ultimately, while trends can point you in the right direction, the best frames are the ones that make you feel incredible, comfortable, and confident.

two friends browsing for eyeglass frames at their optometry clinic

5 Reasons to Buy Glasses from Your Optometrist 

Frame selection is a great time to experiment with a new look; however, your glasses significantly affect your overall vision quality. A professional touch offers experience and personalized insight. Your optometrist can help you find a lens match for your vision.

Although buying online may seem more convenient, there’s no substitute for the care your optometrist and optician can provide. Let’s go over these advantages.

Professional Fit & Adjustments

Glasses are more than a functional accessory. They’re tools you rely on every single day. When you buy from your optometrist, you benefit from an experienced fitting. 

Your optician confirms your glasses are adjusted accurately to your face. No slipping down your nose or uncomfortable pinching around your ears. Besides, well-fitted glasses help support visual clarity, which ill-fitted glasses can compromise. 

Quality Lenses

Online deals might save you a few dollars, but they often come at the cost of poor lens quality (and frames). Optometrists and opticians can also introduce you to specialized lens treatments and technologies that enhance comfort and clarity, features you might otherwise overlook online.

Your optometrist is invested in your eye health and works with reliable lens manufacturers to verify that your lenses can meet standards for clarity and durability.

If you have a lens issue, your optometrist can collaborate directly with the lab and lens manufacturers to resolve any concerns. 

Supporting Local Businesses

Many independent vision clinics are local businesses. When you purchase from your optometrist, you support a local business with a team passionate about serving their community.

As a bonus, many boutiques carry stylish, unique, and independent brands (supporting other small businesses) that you won’t find with big online retailers. 

Repairs & Emergency Care

Accidents happen. Whether you accidentally sit on your frames, knock your glasses off the nightstand, or break a screw, your optical team has your back.  

Depending on the damage, most optometrists offer repairs or adjustments for free, at a minimal cost, or under warranty. Whatever the concern, our team can guide you toward finding the right solution. 

Exclusive Perks

Many optometrists provide little extras that elevate your entire glasses-buying experience: personal styling assistance, seasonal discounts, and loyalty rewards for a personal touch a computer screen can’t emulate! 

Your Vision Deserves the World

When investing in your vision, your health, and your confidence, don’t compromise. Your vision is priceless, and our L’occhio Eyecare-Eyestyle team is here to support you every step of the way. 

Connect with our team to schedule a routine eye exam or browse our unique selection of trendy frames.

Written by Dr. Richard Grifasi

When I started out nearly two decades ago, I had a clear philosophy. Whether protecting your sight from glaucoma or diabetes, introducing you to the most advanced laser vision correction or helping you find the most fashionable and sophisticated eyewear, you should always come first.

That philosophy has led me to strive for excellence in every area of my eye care and optical centers. Excellence in the care and service I give every client. Excellence in the diagnosis and treatment of all vision problems and eye diseases. Excellence in the technology we use to evaluate and test your eyes. And excellence in the quality and workmanship of our frames and lens selections.

Most of all, I have strived to build excellence into your whole eye care experience, from the moment you first visit until long after you have received treatment or a prescription. Today, I am pleased to report that we have achieved excellence in these areas. How do I know? My patients tell me every day.

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