Buying cat-eye prescription glasses online: a practical guide

Compare the shape, not just the category name

Cat-eye describes an upswept frame style. The height of the lens opening, the corners and the thickness of the front can look different from one model to another. Product photographs help you compare those details, but they are not a physical try-on.

Start with the measurements of a comfortable pair. Compare the bridge and temple length as well as lens width. A frame you like in a photograph can sit differently if its bridge design or proportions differ from your current pair.

Compare four cat-eye frame options

These models share the $79 everyday base-pair price with standard single vision lenses. Measurements are frame dimensions, not a guarantee of fit. Review your chosen color, size and lens options on the product page.

Match the dimensions before choosing the color

Adorable measures 47 / 15 / 135 mm; After measures 52 / 17 / 140 mm. Aimee and Artsy have 55 mm and 54 mm lens openings respectively. These are different size choices within the same shape category.

If you are replacing a comfortable frame, note what you want to keep and what you want to change. If your current bridge is uncomfortable, matching only the lens width will not answer the bridge question. Ask us about unclear fit details before paying.

Look carefully at crystal and multi-color names

Some cat-eye options combine colors or use crystal accents. Aimee includes Red/Crystal, Black/Crystal and Navy/Crystal. Artsy uses three-part combinations. Read the exact selected color name instead of assuming a broad label such as red or black describes the whole frame.

For another look, compare tortoiseshell frame choices and clear and crystal styles. A style preference is a useful starting point, but it does not establish a fit or lens recommendation.

Price the cat-eye pair with your chosen lenses

Each everyday model in the table starts at $79 with standard plastic single vision prescription lenses. Optional materials, anti-glare, tints and other choices add to the amount. For example, a base pair with polycarbonate is $94 before prescription charges; polycarbonate plus standard anti-glare is $129.

Browse the cat-eye collection, then use our complete-pair budget examples and frames-and-lenses checklist before choosing your configuration.

Confirm the order details

Use a current eyeglass prescription and your own PD for the intended lens purpose. At checkout, you can enter the prescription, upload a clear image or PDF, or provide both. Check that any typed values agree with the document. Contact us before ordering if the prescription includes an ADD; bifocals and progressives are not available here yet.

Shipping is free to Michigan, Delaware, Oregon and Montana. Most basic pairs ship within 2 business days; carrier transit follows. Optional lenses may take longer. Custom prescription pairs do not have change-of-mind, style or fit returns. Read the remake and refund policy before payment, and report qualifying errors, defects or shipping damage within 14 days.