Out of your entire wardrobe — clothing, shoes, accessories — your glasses are most closely associated with your personal style. You wear the same pair every day for years at a time, so it makes sense to invest in a quality pair that speaks to your own taste. While the typical optical shop has an assortment of serviceable glasses, it’s worth exploring the range of independent options found in smaller boutiques if you’re looking for something more distinctive. Though the price of these frames can be higher, they feature top-tier Japanese, French, German and Italian manufacturing and utilize industry-leading materials, so there’s real value in each pair. Below are some of the top brands to check out before updating your prescription.
Moscot Sechel
This iconic style from New York brand Moscot is handcrafted from Italian acetate. It features real rivets, 5-barrel hinges and is available in two sizes and three different colorways.
David Kind Wexler
Made in Japan, these lightweight glasses feature a thin acetate front and pure titanium temples. The price includes prescription lenses with anti-reflective coatings and the glasses are backed by an incredible 10-year warranty.
Salt. Optics Brody
Southern California-based Salt. produces all its frames in Sabae, Japan. The Brody is handcrafted from acetate in a Black Oak colorway: a distinct black front with a tortoise back.
Ahlem Rue Froissart
The Rue Froissart frames are handmade in Oyonnax, France from Mazzucchelli cellulose acetate. They feature 5-barrel hinges, real rivets and beveled temples for a comfortable fit.
Mykita Tona
These minimal frames are made in Germany from lightweight stainless steel and feature Mykita’s patented spiral hinge. For added comfort, they include acetate temple tips and nose pads, and are individually adjustable.
Jacques Marie Mage Molino
This limited-edition frame is inspired by Carlo Mollino, the famous Italian architect and designer. Made in Japan from a thick 10mm acetate, they feature sterling silver hardware and subtle beveling.
Barton Perreira Alvar
Made from filigree-detailed polished titanium, these Japanese-made frames are accented with beveled tortoiseshell acetate. Inspired by Alvar Aalto, they feature rounded square shape lenses and clear nose pads.
Masahiro Maruyama MM-0014
These unique Japanese frames are slightly asymmetrical and feature a polished irregular outline. Milled from a solid titanium block, they are durable, lightweight and hypoallergenic. The design features adjustable nosepads and fully-riveted hinges.