Made-to-measure eyewear services: Grey Fox tries two different approaches from Atelier Eyewear & Scarlett of Soho

The last year has seen a rise in the number of online services offering made-to-measure eyewear; both as sun or optical glasses. I've tried a couple of these and have been impressed by the level of service and the quality of the products.

[PS: Scarlett & Soho are offering Grey Fox Blog readers a generous pre-Christmas discount; see below.]

Atelier Eyewear

Offer both optical and sunglasses. I tried it for the sunglasses and was taken through a choice of some 15 frames, 30 colours and 7 frames options. 

Atelier Eyewear sunglasses

There are frames shapes to suit all tastes and face-types. The process is interesting and engaging. You upload a photo of your face (an easy process using the camera on your computer or device) and select from the wide choice available. Measurements are taken and, after 4 to 5 weeks, the glasses arrive, nicely-packed and well-presented. Each pair is customised to fit your face shape and the frame can be engraved with your name, making it unique to you. 

The short wait is well worth it; the fit and design were exactly as I hoped for. The materials are high quality, the glasses are robust and yet not too heavy, an excellent combination of comfort, design and style. Sunglasses like mine cost around £265 including lenses and shipping. Given that the customer effectively designs his own glasses, giving a near-bespoke and high-quality product, this is a reasonable price. 

Much support and help is available, so you're not left on your own to sort out exactly what you need. This is reassuring if you are wanting frames fitted with prescription lenses. It's good to wear quality eyewear that is unique and not worn be everyone else. Visit Atelier Eyewear [Note I have removed this link as there is a malware warning and the company seems to have disappeared October 2015] to try out the service.

Scarlett & Soho

Scarlett & Soho also offer either sun or optical eyewear, but their approach is slightly different. You browse their website, choose four frames which are sent to you so that you can try them out at home over the next five days. You then return the frames in a pre-paid box that fits postboxes, making the process very easy indeed.

Scarlett & Soho optical glasses

Again, much help is offered to ensure you select the correct fit of frames and prescription of lenses. If you don't have your prescription to hand, they will obtain it from your usual optometrist. Prices are good; from about £97 including prescription (£147 for sunglasses with prescription lenses). I obtained a pair of reading glasses to enable me to read more easily while wearing contact lenses. 

The quality and comfort of the frames are very high. The materials are good quality and robust. Visit Scarlett & Soho to find out more.

NOTE: Scarlett & Soho are offering Grey Fox Blog readers a pre-Christmas 2014 discount of 20% using the code GFB20 at the checkout.

Summary

I enjoyed using both services. Atelier Eyewear offer a wider choice and greater degree of customisation at an understandably higher cost. Scarlett & Soho offer a good choice and lower prices, but slightly less exclusivity and choice. I was happy to use both. You pays your money and takes your choice.