How to Buy Prescription Glasses Online at GlassesShop

Let's talk glasses! If you wear glasses every day, you know they're more than just something that helps you see. They're part of your everyday style, and finding frames that look great, feel comfortable, and fit your face can make such a difference.

I've been trying out glasses from GlassesShop, and I was super pleased with all three pairs I reviewed! Shopping for glasses online can feel a little intimidating at first. After all, you can't walk into a store, try on a dozen frames, and immediately tell which ones fit best. But with a little measuring and a few helpful tricks, you can make ordering glasses online much easier.

If you wear glasses, or have a child that does...you know it's better to have a few pairs over one really expensive one! GlassesShop regularly has BOGO and other amazing deals--like this BLACK FRIDAY SALE!

Here's the frames I got:

• Hermosa in Blue
• Averies in Pink
• Salem in Clear

Today, I'm sharing my experience with GlassesShop, plus everything you need to know about measuring yourself for glasses, choosing frames that flatter your face shape, and finding your perfect pair without leaving home.

➡️​➡️​I received 2 pairs of glasses from GlassesShop to review. The other pair, I signed up with my email and got a FREE pair of frames, I just had to pay for the lenses, which was about $12--absolutely the way to go in my opinion.

I'm totally looking at the BOGO Black Friday sale with 30% off lenses too--I need more glasses!

My GlassesShop Review: Three Pairs, Three Reasons to Smile

My vision insurance covered an exam for me, but did not cover any bit of glasses. So I decided to go online and find the perfect pairs...for WAY less than an optical store.

I reviewed three pairs of glasses from GlassesShop, and I was genuinely pleased with all three! I love having options when it comes to eyewear, and ordering online makes it possible to explore different styles without spending an afternoon driving from store to store.

GlassesShop offers a wide variety of eyeglasses, sunglasses, frame styles, and prescription lens options at GlassesShop.com. Whether you're looking for something classic and understated or a bold pair that makes a statement, there's plenty to browse.

Here are a few things I appreciate about shopping for glasses online:

• More styles to explore. You can compare frame shapes, colors, and materials in one place.

• Options for different budgets. You can browse a variety of price points to find frames that work for you.

• Convenient shopping. You can compare your favorite frames from home instead of rushing through an in-store appointment.

• Options for different vision needs. Depending on your prescription and chosen frame, you can explore single vision lenses and other available lens options.

For me, trying three pairs was a great way to explore different looks. Instead of settling for one pair, I could enjoy having options for different outfits, occasions, and everyday activities.

If you're shopping for your first pair of glasses online, don't worry! The most important thing is knowing your measurements and understanding your prescription before you order.

How to Buy Glasses Online and Get the Right Fit

Here's the secret to finding a comfortable fit: start with a pair of glasses you already own that fits well.

You don't need to guess your size or rely entirely on how a frame looks in a photograph. Your current glasses (and even sunglasses) can give you a helpful starting point for choosing your next pair.

Step 1: Find the Measurements on Your Current Glasses

Pick up your favorite pair of glasses--or even SUNGLASSES and look at the inside of one of the arms, also called the temple.

You may see three numbers printed there, something like:

49–19–142

These numbers usually represent three important frame measurements:

• 49 mm: Lens width. The horizontal width of one lens.

• 19 mm: Bridge width. The distance across the nose bridge between the lenses.

• 142 mm: Temple length. The length of the arms that extend back over your ears.

These measurements are often printed directly on the frame. GlassesShop also explains how to read these numbers in its optical FAQ.

Write down the numbers from your current glasses before browsing. This gives you a starting point for comparing new frames.

Step 2: Measure the Overall Frame Width

The width of the entire frame matters just as much as the individual lens measurements.

If your glasses fit comfortably, measure straight across the front from the outermost edge of one side to the outermost edge of the other. A ruler with millimeter markings works well. Or just add the frame measurement twice and the bridge. 

I was searching for glasses in the range of 118-126mm for my narrow face...and I could easily search in the small section for frames in this measurement range.

Compare that measurement with the dimensions listed for the frames you're considering.

Your new glasses don't have to be exactly the same size as your old ones, but staying reasonably close is a good starting point.

What should you look for?

• Frames shouldn't extend dramatically beyond the sides of your face.

• The arms shouldn't squeeze your temples.

• The glasses shouldn't feel so wide that they slide around.

• The frame should sit naturally without requiring you to constantly push it back up your nose.

A few millimeters can make a noticeable difference in how glasses feel, so don't skip this step!

Step 3: Check the Bridge Width

The bridge is the part of the glasses that rests on your nose.

If the bridge is too narrow, your glasses may pinch or sit too high. If it's too wide, the frames may slide down your nose throughout the day.

Look at your current glasses and notice how they sit. Do they stay in place comfortably? Do they leave uncomfortable pressure marks?

Use that information when choosing your next frame.

Different frame materials and nose-pad designs can affect how glasses fit, too. A plastic frame with a molded bridge may sit differently from a metal frame with adjustable nose pads, even when their measurements look similar.

Step 4: Check the Temple Length

The temple arms should extend comfortably over your ears without digging into the sides of your head.

If your current glasses fit well, use their temple measurement as a reference.

When comparing new frames, remember that the shape of the arms and the way they curve behind your ears also affect comfort. Two frames with the same temple length may not feel identical.

The goal is a secure fit without pinching, slipping, or pressure behind your ears.

Step 5: Measure Your Pupillary Distance (PD)

This is one of the most important measurements when ordering prescription glasses online, which I had done at the optical center. It's free, they'll just check your pupils and you are good to go.

Your pupillary distance, or PD, is the distance in millimeters between the centers of your pupils. It helps ensure that the optical centers of your lenses are positioned appropriately for your eyes.

Your eye doctor may include your PD on your prescription, but it's not always listed automatically. Ask for it during your eye exams if you plan to order glasses online.

If you don't have the measurement, check whether your optometrist can provide it or use a reputable measurement method recommended by your eyewear provider.

For prescription glasses, don't confuse PD with the physical width of your frames. They're two completely different measurements!

You can also visit the GlassesShop PD measurement guide to explore its online eyewear resources.

How to Choose Glasses for Your Face Shape

Once you know your measurements, the fun part begins: picking your favorite frames!

Your face shape can help you narrow down the options, but these are suggestions rather than strict rules. Wear what makes you feel good! (I tried a few different shapes and love the cat eye glasses the most)

Round Face

Round faces typically have softer curves, fuller cheeks, and similar proportions across the face.

Rectangular or square frames can introduce more definition. Cat-eye frames can also add an interesting lift.

Square Face

Square faces often have a broader forehead, strong jawline, and relatively similar width and length.

Round or oval frames can soften angular features, while delicate metal frames may create a lighter look.

Oval Face

Oval faces are generally longer than they are wide, with balanced proportions.

Many frame shapes work well, including rectangular, round, and cat-eye styles. Focus on finding a frame width that complements your face.

Heart-Shaped Face

Heart-shaped faces often have a wider forehead and a narrower chin.

Oval frames, lighter styles, and frames with more visual weight toward the lower portion may help balance your features.

Diamond-Shaped Face

Diamond-shaped faces tend to have prominent cheekbones, with a narrower forehead and chin.

Oval, cat-eye, and browline styles are worth trying if you want to emphasize your cheekbones.

You can also use the GlassesShop guide to choosing the right frames for more ideas.

My biggest advice? Don't let your face shape dictate every decision. Try different styles, compare proportions, and choose the frames you genuinely enjoy wearing.

Use Virtual Try-On Before You Buy

One of the handiest tools when shopping online is a virtual try-on.

GlassesShop offers a Virtual Try-On tool that lets you preview frames using a photo or your device's camera.

It's a great way to compare styles before committing to an order.

Here are a few tips for getting a useful preview:

1. Take a clear, front-facing photo in good lighting.

2. Keep your head level rather than tilting it.

3. Remove your current glasses so they don't obscure your face.

4. Try several frame shapes and colors.

5. Compare the actual frame measurements before ordering.

Here's an important detail: virtual try-on is helpful for visualizing how glasses might look, but it doesn't guarantee the physical size or fit. A frame can look fantastic on your screen and still be too wide, too narrow, or uncomfortable.

Use virtual try-on to narrow down your style choices, then use your measurements to check the fit.

Also, if you're uploading a photo, take a moment to review the site's privacy policy so you understand how your information and photos are handled.

What About Your Prescription?

Before ordering prescription glasses, make sure you have a valid prescription from your eye care professional.

GlassesShop does not provide eye exams or issue prescriptions. You'll need to visit an optometrist or ophthalmologist for an eye exam and the prescription required for your lenses.

Your prescription may include details such as:

• SPH: The lens power needed to correct nearsightedness or farsightedness.

• CYL: The amount of astigmatism correction, if applicable.

• AXIS: The orientation of astigmatism correction, when applicable.

• ADD: Additional magnifying power, often used for multifocal lenses, when prescribed.

• PD: The distance between your pupils, which helps position your lenses correctly.

Not every prescription includes every measurement. If you're unsure how to enter your information, ask your eye care professional or contact the retailer's customer service team before placing your order.

Single Vision, Blue Light, and Other Lens Options

When ordering glasses, you'll generally need to select the lens type that matches your needs.

Single vision lenses have one corrective prescription throughout each lens. They're commonly used for distance vision, reading, or other specific vision needs.

You may also see blue light filtering options. These are marketed for filtering some blue wavelengths from screens, but evidence that blue light filtering glasses relieve digital eye strain is limited. Screen breaks, appropriate lighting, and regular blinking can also help with screen comfort.

GlassesShop offers different lens and frame options, so check the product details carefully before choosing your configuration.

Can You Use Vision Insurance Benefits?

Before paying for your new glasses, check whether your vision insurance benefits can be used for an online purchase. (My glasses were NOT covered by insurance, but they were only $12 for a pair of free frames, the cheapest lenses and shipping!)

Coverage varies by plan and retailer. Some plans allow reimbursement for eligible out-of-network purchases, while others require you to shop through a specific network.

Before ordering, ask your insurer:

• Are online glasses purchases eligible for reimbursement?

• Do I need an itemized receipt?

• Is a copy of my prescription required?

• Are frames and lenses covered separately?

• Are there restrictions on lens upgrades?

Don't assume that every purchase qualifies automatically. Confirm the details with your insurer so you understand any reimbursement limits or additional charge for optional lens features.

A Few More Tips for Finding Your Perfect Pair

Before checking out, run through this quick list:

• Compare your new frames with the measurements of glasses that already fit you.

• Check the lens width, bridge width, temple length, and overall frame width.

• Confirm that your prescription is current and entered correctly.

• Check the lens type and any optional upgrades.

• Use virtual try-on to compare your favorite frames.

• Review the retailer's shipping, returns, warranty, and customer service information.

If this is your first pair of glasses purchased online, it may help to choose a frame with measurements close to your existing glasses rather than making several big changes at once.

And remember, the perfect frame isn't just the one that looks best in a photo. It's the one that feels comfortable, suits your style, and works for your vision needs.

Final Thoughts: Is GlassesShop Worth Trying?

I was super pleased with the three pairs of glasses I reviewed from GlassesShop, and I love having different options to choose from.

Shopping online gives you the chance to explore styles at your own pace, compare prices, and find frames that suit your personality. With a little preparation, you can make the experience much less intimidating.

The biggest lesson? Measure first, browse second, and double-check your prescription before ordering.

If you're ready to explore new frames, visit GlassesShop.com and start browsing. Take your time, use virtual try-on, and compare the measurements so you can find a pair you'll love wearing.

Happy glasses shopping!

CHECK OUT THIS PREVIOUS REVIEW OF GLASSES SHOP TOO!

GlassesShop Review: Prescription Glasses & Sunglasses

Stocking up on prescription glasses and sunglasses has never been more budget friendly than with GlassesShop.

I'm reviewing prescription eyeglasses and sunglasses from GlassesShop and can't wait to tell you everything!