We do not have a doctor on site, but we recommend Urban Eyecare in Wicker Park. They provide a variety of services and accept most forms of vision insurance.

You bet we do. They’re available in any increment you like.

That depends on a number of variables, including prescription, frame choice, and lens type. Most single vision lenses are done in about a week. Multifocals and more complex prescriptions typically take about two weeks.

No.

After working in the optical industry for nearly thirteen years, we’ve made a number of industry connections from whom we source our new and deadstock eyewear.

Most likely. Not all frames are suitable for reuse however, as they may have sustained damage or warpage over the years. The quality of various plastics and metals can differ greatly, and a cheaply made frame may not withstand the stresses incurred during lens installation. If you see a dry, “frosty” residue on the frame, or if it has any cracks, we don’t recommend re-using it. Feel free to bring the frame in so we can take a closer look and give you a definite answer.

Maybe. We only purchase frames that are in new, unused condition. We also don’t purchase Chinese-made frames.

No. We feel that the Ray-Ban brand is played-out, as it’s readily available at every Lenscrafters and Sunglass Hut in the country. Labrabbit focuses on under-the-radar and up-and-coming brands, so we can make a number of recommendations that will keep you ahead of the style pack, while still maintaining a classic cool. For metal aviator frames, check out Randolph Engineering’s sturdy sunwear. Looking for browline or Clubmaster frames? Try Shuron, the company that invented the style back in the late ’40s. Are Wayfarers more your style? Check out Super, the new champions of fun, colorful, easy-to-wear sunglasses.

It’s easier that you might think. A few things to keep in mind: DO NOT use any sort of paper products to clean your lenses. While they feel soft to the human touch, the miniscule wood fibers have an abrasive effect on lenses. Use a clean cotton t-shirt and the provided lens cleaner, but keep in mind that fabric treated with fabric softener may leave streaks. Also, DO NOT remove your eyewear with one hand. This puts frequent and excessive pressure on one side of the frame, and can result in misalignment, lost screws, and/or frame breakage. Always use two hands when handling your eyewear.

It’s best to build a relationship with a skilled, local optician who can advise you on the fit, function, and fashion of eyewear. This is why buying glasses for $49 from China is such a terrible idea: you’re missing out on the services of a skilled professional who can provide you with service before, during, and after the sale. Especially in a market saturated with chain stores and lackluster service, this is no easy task. We recommend that you choose a frame from our Webshop and bring it to a local optician. Or take a roadtrip to Chicago! Non-prescription eyewear is a little easier to work with via mail, so email us and we can discuss an appropriate course of action.

You wouldn’t have a suit tailored online, would you? Our lenses are “tailor-made,” in a sense, using a number of individualized measurements that we take in person. This requires a skilled, professional hand; an error of just a couple of millimeters can mean the difference between clear vision and discomfort. You also miss out on free eyewear adjustments, a knowledgable optician who is happy to answer any questions you might have, and whatever’s jamming on the stereo.

No. There are a number of hardcoatings employed in the lens manufacturing process that would be stripped away by further buffing or polishing.

Not yet. We’re a very, tiny business, and are unable to accept VSP, Davis, Eyemed, etc. Most of the large insurance companies require an on-site optometrist, which is a service that we do not currently offer. However, if you use a flexible spending account/HSA account through your employer, you may be eligible for reimbursement. Check with your insurance provider to see if this is an option for you.

Those numbers refer to the size of the frame. The horizontal width of each individual lens is 52 millimeters, and the distance between lenses is 18 millimeters. While these numbers are useful for comparing sizes within a single model of frame, they don’t necessarily translate well from model to model. It’s the same situation with denim jeans: a 32″ waist/34″ length pair of Levi’s is going to fit much differently from a 32/34 by Wrangler or APC. This is another reason why it’s essential to try on eyewear in person.

No.

Yes, albeit only at special events. The best way to stay informed about store events and parties is to friend Labrabbit Optics on Facebook. We typically have a party/sale/art opening at our storefront location every 2-3 months. They’re a blast!

We can make bifocals, trifocals, no-line bifocals, Transitions, safety lenses, and literally hundreds of other products. Because Labrabbit is not beholden to the same corporate restrictions that Lenscrafters and Pearle Vision have to deal with, we can get literally ANY lens product that’s on the market today.