How to Buy Glasses & Sunglasses Online: A Complete Guide

Buying eyewear online used to feel like a gamble — will the frames fit, will they suit me, what if my prescription is wrong? It doesn’t have to. With a few simple checks you can order glasses or sunglasses online with total confidence, often with more choice and a better fit than a rushed store visit. Here’s exactly how.

Why Buy Eyewear Online?

Shopping for frames online has two big advantages. First, convenience: you can browse and compare from home, on your own schedule, with no pressure. Second, selection: an online catalogue isn’t limited by shelf space, so you have access to far more shapes, colours, and styles than a typical store carries. The only thing you give up is trying frames on in person — and the steps below close that gap.

Step 1: Find Your Frame Size

The single best trick for buying online: read the measurements off a pair you already own. Look on the inside of the temple arm (the part that rests on your ear) and you’ll usually find three numbers, like 52–18–145:

• Lens width (e.g. 52 mm) — the width of one lens.
• Bridge width (e.g. 18 mm) — the gap between the lenses, over your nose.
• Temple length (e.g. 145 mm) — the length of the arm.

Match these to the measurements listed on any frame you’re considering and you’ll get a fit that sits right without slipping. If a current pair fits well, you’re already halfway there.

Step 2: Choose Frames for Your Face Shape

A flattering frame generally contrasts with your face shape:

• Round faces: angular or rectangular frames add definition.
• Square or angular faces: softer, rounded frames balance strong features.
• Heart-shaped faces: frames wider at the bottom, or lighter styles, balance a broader forehead.
• Oval faces: lucky you — most shapes work.

When in doubt, a versatile silhouette flatters almost everyone. (For aviators specifically, see our aviator style guide.)

Step 3: Pick the Right Lenses

Frames are only half the decision. Match your lenses to how you’ll wear them:

• UV protection is non-negotiable for sunglasses — always confirm full UV400 protection. (Here’s why UV protection matters more than tint.)
• Polarized lenses cut glare off water, snow, and roads — great for driving and the outdoors.
• Prescription — you can add your prescription to most frames; see how in our prescription sunglasses guide.

Step 4: Ordering With a Prescription

Buying corrective eyewear online is straightforward. Choose your frame, then share your prescription details with us — our team confirms everything before your lenses are crafted, so nothing is left to guesswork. Have your prescription handy (your optician will have given you a copy), and if you’re unsure about anything, just contact us before you order and we’ll walk you through it.

Step 5: Buy With Confidence — Shipping & Returns

The right return policy is what makes online eyewear risk-free. At Varadero, orders ship within 48 hours via free UPS Ground (average 3–5 business days), and every order is backed by a 100% money-back guarantee — 14 days to return for a full refund, with a prepaid label provided. If a pair isn’t right when it arrives, sending it back is simple.

Why Buy From Varadero

Varadero was founded by a licensed optician, and every frame is handcrafted in Italy from premium acetate and titanium, with full UV protection in every lens. That means online convenience without compromising on fit, clarity, or quality. Explore the sunglasses and eyeglasses collections — including the titanium Capri and acetate Gaviota — and find your pair from home.

Shop Eyewear Online →

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know my frame size when buying online?
Check the inside of the temple arm on a pair you already own for three numbers (lens width, bridge width, temple length) and match them to the frame you want.

Can I return sunglasses I bought online?
Yes — Varadero offers a 100% money-back guarantee with 14 days to return for a full refund and a prepaid return label.

How do I add my prescription to an online order?
Choose your frame and share your prescription details with our team, who confirm everything before crafting your lenses. Contact us first if you have questions.

How long does delivery take?
Orders ship within 48 hours via free UPS Ground, arriving in about 3–5 business days.