Online shopping for prescription glasses direct used to be a last resort, something you did to pick up a budget pair or to try out a new look without breaking the bank. But now, with more fashion-forward frame brands and venerable brick-and-mortar opticians launching their web stores, the process is faster and easier than ever.

With most retailers requiring a valid prescription for eyewear (and many offering special options for those with more complex prescriptions such as bifocals and progressive lenses), you’ll need to have a copy of your current prescription before ordering online. Some retailers offer an app that scans your existing lenses to determine the lens type and prescription, while others ask you to upload a photo of your written prescription or manually enter it during the ordering process.

Prescription Precision: The Art of Crafting Perfect Lenses with Glasses Direct

When selecting frames, pay attention to the website’s fit rating system, which helps you determine how well the frames are likely to fit your face based on your height and width measurements, as well as any other factors that can affect the size of your eyes. Also be aware of a retailer’s return policy, and consider whether it offers an extended trial period or a warranty in case the glasses don’t fit as expected.

With Glasses Direct, you can discover the perfect frames with their Best Fit Machine, which uses the measurements from your existing glasses to find the best-fitting frames for your face shape, or with their free Home Trial service – which allows you to try up to four frames in your own home before deciding on your favorite pair. The service also provides a variety of value lens packages, including anti-reflection and scratch-resistant coatings, as well as blue light-blocking lenses for those who spend time outdoors.