Blog

Transitions Optical Presents Transitions Vantage Lenses

Many of you know me primarily as a frame expert, but in my heart I am also a Lens Technology geek as well, and the recent announcement of Transitions Optical’s Vantage lens is a huge accomplishment in the world of photochromic (color-changing) lenses.  The Transitions Vantage lenses present a new, unique proposition—offering both variable tint and variable polarization!  With variable polarization the lenses not only adapt to changing light by darkening, but also by increasing in polarization.  This means that the lenses will have a variable level of polarization efficiency depending on the amount of UV exposure—the darker the lens, the more polarization efficiency there is!The ability to have a clear lens indoors that changes to a polarized sunglass outdoors is game-changing.  Up until now polarization has always been accomplished using a colored film sandwiched between two clear lenses.  There were options for darker or lighter variations on this lens, but the lens was always a constant color, with darker lenses offering more glare reduction.This new development will mean that the molecules not only change color, but self-align to eliminate more blinding glare the darker they get.  Lenses that both darken AND polarize upon UV exposure will deliver noticeably crisper, sharper vision, even in the brightest outdoor glare.Transitions Optical has planned a major announcement about the release of this lens on March 1—click http://www.transitionsvantage.com/ for a link to the announcement, and a video describing this exciting new lens.We at Eye Elegance think that this is a lens that EVERYONE will want to have—we are certainly looking forward to trying it ourselves.  As soon as it is available to order, I will let all of you know.Tim

Buyer’s Blog: Robert Marc Trunk Show

It’s hard to believe that January is just over, and it’s already feeling spring-like here in Houston!  To celebrate this early spring we would love to see you for our second annual Robert Marc trunk show.  Our good friend Brian from Robert Marc will be here on Saturday, February 11 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. to showcase the latest collection from Robert Marc, which he has called “Via Roma”.From Robert Marc:  “Rome is world famous as a destination for art, design, architecture, great food and traditions.  There is a feeling of optimism and positive energy resonating among the opulent, century-old palazzos that I wanted to capture in this collection – a youthful, modern layer with crisp yet sensuous lines and distinctive, colorful materials.”The Roman vitality is highlighted by exquisite materials detailed in strong colors, brilliant and lustrous jewel-tones that create rich energy and high glamour.When we previewed the collection at Vision Expo West last fall, we were particularly impressed by to use of jewel-tone colors like Tiger Eye, Amethyst, Sapphire and Garnet in the women’s collection, combined with contrasting temples in a marble-like swirl of the front color blended with crystal, topaz and black.  The men’s collection includes a rich deep navy blue and a dark smoky midnight blue along with classic tortoise and a rich black.I would also like to invite you to view our most recent newsletter, which features new products from four of the most exciting collections in our store—Théo, Face à Face, Entourage of 7 and Robert Marc by clicking here.We hope to see you here on February 11!Tim

***Flexible Spending Accounts***

Still have pre-tax money in a Flexible Spending Account or Health Care Savings Account?  Do you have to spend that money by the end of the year, or risk losing it?  Prescription eyewear is a great way to use that money before the end of the year, and have a great new look for your holiday parties, or to start off the new year!  Stop in today and let our staff help you find that great new look.  We have recently received brand new collections from Robert Marc, Entourage of 7, théo and Judith Leiber!  We wish everyone a happy and healthy holiday season—look for a new issue of our newsletter after the first of the year, and announcements about trunk shows coming in the New Year featuring Robert Marc and Judith Leiber.Thanks to everyone who turned out for our théo trunk show and made it a great success.  We found fantastic limited-edition eyewear for a lot of people on that day!Tim

Théo Eyewear Event!

We at Eye Elégance are excited to announce that our good friend Jessica will be returning on December 3 to show the newest styles from the brilliant Belgian designers at Théo Eyewear!  Known for innovative design and bold use of color, Théo has a worldwide following among eyeglass collectors—I know that many of our customers are big Théo fans, too!  Personally, I would be lost without my Théo frames.  I had the pleasure of previewing much of the new collection at Vision Expo West in Las Vegas, and can guarantee that there are a lot of exciting new things to see this season.Please join us on Saturday, December 3 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. to view the entire current collection.  We will have food, drink and maybe even some special pricing on this very special collection.  If you are a fan of unique, high-quality limited edition eyewear, this is a can’t-miss event.  Be sure to like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter to get the latest updates on special events, in-store specials and new arrivals.I hope to see you there!Tim 

Vision Expo West market recap!

Last month we travelled to Las Vegas for Vision Expo West, and our frame vendors did not disappoint when it came to new offerings!  Everyone had great new ideas for style and color, and there are definitely some new trends coming in the next year.

Coming Events: Vegas and Beyond!

Here at Eye Elegance, we are busy preparing for Vision Expo West, one of the biggest eyewear and optical shows in the United States!  Held at the Sands Expo Convention Center in association with the Venetian Hotel, Expo West has over 450 exhibitors and over 13,000 attendees!  We experience a whirlwind of meetings with our vendors (15 vendors in 16 hours over the course of two days!) to see all of the new frame offerings for the Spring/Summer 2012 season. 

***Part 2—choosing the correct glasses for the job***

Everyone knows that sunglasses are essential for protecting your eyes from the damaging effects of UV light, but there are also very different aspects to the performance of sun lenses for different activities. I’m going to discuss two very different types of performance eyewear:  driving glasses and golf glasses.  Traditionally, many drivers wear grey lenses, which provide the lowest light transmission and are a good choice in the brightest sunlight.  However, brown or amber lenses increase contrast, enabling drivers to better read road contours.  These advantages also allow drivers to wear brown/amber lenses earlier in the day and later in the evening.Polarized lenses are also very advantageous when driving.  The polarizing filter blocks reflected glare from the road and blinding glare bouncing off of other car windshields and bumpers.  They may also add to your safety and security by allowing you to see the drivers and passengers in nearby cars instead of seeing the reflection of the sky on the windshield.  We have several ways of demonstrating the advantages of polarized lenses here in the shop.Polarized lenses may, however, be less advantageous on the golf course.  The purpose of golf glasses is to improve the eye’s ability to see and track a golf ball against varying backgrounds and light levels.  Grey is usually not used because it is a neutral filter.  To conquer the haze created by evaporation on a typical course, one must suppress blue light and increase green contrast.  That is best performed by colors which suppress the blue end of the spectrum, such as brown, amber and green.  When a golfer “reads” a green, they’re trying to subconsciously process how the following factors combine to influence ball speed and trajectory during putting:• Slope• Grass length• Moisture level (in and on the grass)• Base (firmness of the green)• WindGrain (direction the blades of grass are facing)Visual evaluation of these factors is accomplished through discrimination of differences in the amount of light reflected by individual blades of grass.  This is why most performance golf glasses do not use polarization.  Your perception of light reflection changes as you move, and reflections are greatly decreased through polarization, making it more difficult to read a green.Here at Eye Elegance we have the answers to all of your sunwear needs, from driving to golf to just great fashion!  Stop in and let us find the right sunglasses of ALL of your activities.Tim(Thanks to Barry Santini from 20/20 magazine for much of this info!)

***Choosing the Correct Glasses for the Job***

Having one pair of eyeglasses to solve all of our visual needs would be great, but depending on your specific needs, you may find that having a second (or third!) pair solves all of your visual needs better.  This is especially true when we are over 40, and presbyopia, the inability to focus up close, begins.  A pair of glasses with progressive lenses may be great for most day-to-day activities, but people who do a lot of work at intermediate distances, like musicians or people who work on a computer all day may benefit from an occupational lens that is specially designed for work at those distances (usually 24-36 inches).At Eye Elegance we offer the Essilor Computer lens just for those people.  Whereas a typical progressive puts emphasis on large areas for distance and near correction, the Essilor Computer lens puts the concentration on the Intermediate correction zone.  This lens offers a large, wide intermediate area for clear vision at the computer, a wide near zone at the bottom of the lens for close-up work, and a very small area at the top of the lens for distance viewing when you need it.  You actually tip your head down to access the distance portion of the lens.  These glasses are meant to be worn at your workspace, but not for driving or any other use when you primarily want distance vision.In addition to computer glasses, someone who does a lot of reading may find that although a progressive lens is best most of the time, they appreciate having a reading-only pair of glasses made in their prescription, also.  At Eye Elegance, we are happy to explain the benefits of all of these lens options to help you make the best decision for your specific needs.  Tim

***You Need a La LOOP!***

You know that you shouldn’t put your sunglasses on top of your head, and if you tuck them into your shirt collar, you’ve probably dropped them on the floor.  If you’re like me, you like to carry sunglasses along with your clear prescription glasses, and need a solution that allows you to switch back and forth between them.  The answer is La LOOP, the patented necklace for eyewear!

***Introducing Eyecode Lenses***

We at Eye Elegance are excited to introduce the most individualized lenses ever made, Eyecode lenses from Essilor.  Essilor’s technology allows us to measure the Eye Rotational Center, the position of the frame on you r face and the pantoscopic angle of the frame.  It also accounts for your natural posture.Eyecode lenses capture the unique code in each individual eye, and use that data to perfectly calculate the design for each gaze direction.  No matter where you look, you get the most precise vision—instantly and effortlessly.Eyecode is available in single vision and two Varilux progressive designs:  The Varilux Physio Enhanced Eyecode and, for the ultimate in personalization, the Varilux Ipseo IV Eyecode.  In addition to all of the personalized Eyecode measurements, the Ipseo lens also determines your ratio of head-to-eye movement when you scan a room or a page.  This allows the digital program to accommodate not only for your natural posture, but also for your individual behavior!We would love for you to stop in soon and let us show you what complete lens personalization can do for you.  Watch our website, along with our Facebook and Twitter accounts for more information and for a special promotion on Eyecode lenses starting soon!Tim

***New Service—Custom Frame Coloring!***

At Eye Elegance we are constantly trying to find ways to offer our customers the ultimate in service and frame customization.  We are therefore very excited to introduce custom frame coloring.  We now have the ability to re-coat any metal frame, including titanium frames, to its original color, or to ANY color you want.Texans fan?  How about a Texans steel blue frame front with red temples?  Do you prefer Longhorn orange and white?  We can do it.  Have a favorite scarf or jacket?  We can custom-color a frame to match.  Even if you simply have a favorite frame that has some chips and is beginning to look worn, we can restore it to its original finish!  We can do this with one of your existing frames, or you can purchase a metal frame from our inventory and have it custom-colored for you.  While you’re at it, why not order a custom sun-clip to match?We are always looking for innovative ways to offer something different to our customers.    Stop in soon to ask about pricing on custom frame coloring.Tim

Buyer's Blog

I am often asked “why is this plastic frame more expensive than frames for other companies?”  The answer lies in the type of plastic used by high-end spectacle manufacturers, and how those companies use that material.The type of plastic used in better-quality frames is called zylonite (zyl), which is also known as Cellulose Acetate.  The best quality zyl available comes from the Italian company Mazzuchelli.  Mazzuchelli zyl has been in the plastic industry since 1849.  Their zyl originates from cotton fibers or flakes and wood flakes.  The best materials begin with 100% cotton.  Cellulose Acetates are tough with a deep gloss and high transparency.  They possess a “feel” which is different from other plastics which is often described as more “natural”.  Cellulose Acetate is combined with plasticizers to create a material which can be heat softened, molded and easily adjusted without cracking or becoming brittle.  Larger manufacturers often use these qualities to injection-mold their frames.  Smaller, exclusive companies such as Face a Face and Lafont work with Mazzuchelli to create exclusive colorations and pattern combinations.  Once those colors are created, only the company which designed them will be able to use them.  They then use a more traditional method to create each frame by hand.  The frames are then polished in tumblers for up to two weeks.  Creating each frame one-at-a-time by hand using materials unique to the individual manufacturer gives an end product which is much more exclusive, beautiful, and therefore more expensive!Few plastics have such a ling pedigree as Cellulose Acetate, and being made entirely from renewable resources it certainly has a long way to run. You can see a video of Mazzuchelli Zyl being produced here.Until next time!Tim

***New Arrival—Théo Septante Series!***

Just arrived today, the series of frames that includes the orange frame I’m wearing in the picture (coming soon)!  The Septante series features all new colors from théo in bold shapes.  Building on the success of the Soixante (sthéreo) series which was a super-thick, bold, solid-colored vintage look, these frames are all made in two-tone colors with slightly less-thick acetates.  The accent on the endpiece this time are math symbols, which will continue with the Huitante series later in the year, all making up a collection which will be known as “Mathéo”.New pieces from other lines are coming in soon!  I will let everyone know as soon as I get them!Tim

***New Arrival—Oliver Peoples Vintage***

Eye Elegance is proud to introduce an exclusive collection from Oliver Peoples, the Oliver Peoples Vintage collection. Larry Leight, the founder and chief designer for Oliver Peoples was inspired to explore his personal archive of original Oliver Peoples designs after being encouraged by numerous requests from friends, family and loyal customers.  During this exploration, he rediscovered several iconic, brand-defining styles.  Among these treasures were some of his favorites, including the first style introduced in the Oliver Peoples 1987 debut collection, the OP-505.  The 505 featured filigreed antique metal temple and bridge detailing.  Others were the OP-1955, a unique style recognized for its contrasting frame front and temple colors, and the O’Malley, inspired by former LA Dodgers president Peter O’Malley, which is one of the most recognizable frames in Oliver Peoples history.Convinced that interest in these classic styles is just as strong today as it was over twenty years ago, he wanted to make some available to select customers.  Since very few of the original pieces exist, and because it is essential that the same attention to detail, craftsmanship and the integrity of the original styles be retained, he reached out to the same Japanese factory to reproduce a limited quantity.We at Eye Elegance are proud to be one of the select few boutiques to offer this limited edition collection of twelve distinct pieces.  Call or stop in today to see them!  They are a must-have for the connoisseurs who have endlessly supported Oliver Peoples, and who continue to inspire them!

***Don’t forget the Etnia Barcelona Trunk Show***

Tomorrow, April 30, 2011 we will be hosting a trunk show from Etnia Barcelona.  If you are a fan of beautiful eyeglass frames with outstanding color and pattern choices, don’t miss this show!  We will have food and wine, and the representative from Etnia Barcelona will be here with every frame in the current collection, in every color!  Need sunglasses?  Etnia has classic sun shapes in the vivid colors they are known for.  We will be offering special pricing for in-stock AND SPECIAL ORDERS for one day only!  We would love to see you there. Don’t forget, our End-of-Season sale is still happening, too.  There are great values still to be had from many of our frame lines, so come in soon.‘til next week,Tim

It’s better to give than to receive

Spring is not Christmas nor is it typically a gift giving season, but it is going to be a good time for six Hondurans.  Eye Elegance, working with members of the Honduran Kids Foundation and I Care International, is providing new prescription eyewear; frames, lenses and cases, for six very disadvantaged individuals ranging in age from 11 to 62. Their visual needs were great and Eye Elegance used the best lenses available to maximize vision and reduce thickness and weight.  This is a continuation of our pledge to help those who really need help.  After our promotion in which we asked our clients to turn in their old glasses for a $250.00 credit toward the purchase of a new pair, we were able to send 176 pairs of glasses to Lyons Club of Honduras.  That was a program which helped a large number of people in a general way, but this time we were able to address the very specific needs of just a few.  We will continue to do what we can as we break down the logistics of dealing with a foreign land and create a larger contact base.Daniel Protz,Eye Elegance, Inc.

Eye Elegance Update

Hello, Everyone!This update is a little late, but we have been very busy preparing for...***Vision Expo East**Daniel and I will be going to New York on Thursday, March 17 through Sunday, March 20 to see the latest eyewear styles and lens technology.  This is the biggest eyewear show in the United States, and it is the time that we see all of the new styles for summer through winter 2011!  From some of the teases I have seen from vendors, I expect to see a very resort-oriented collection from Robert Marc (the collection is entitled “Palm Springs”, bold and colorful new collections from Theo, and a continued emphasis on larger vintage looks in general.  We will be posting pictures from our trip as we go (maybe video, too, if I can figure out how to do it ☺ ).  If anyone has any specific requests for frame styles, ideas, colors etc., post them in the comments! In my last post I promised Trunk show news, so here it is:***Etnia Barcelona Trunk Show April 30, 2011!!***Join us on Saturday, April 30 to view one of the most colorful, innovative and well-made collections in the world today!  Each piece of Etnia is handmade in Spain from exclusive Italian acetate colors, top quality hinges and metal finishes in monel and titanium that will satisfy the cravings of any eyewear addict.  This year they also introduced their first sunwear collection, and came up with classic shapes in the unusual, bold and bright color combinations they are known for!  This really is a must-see for anyone who loves eye-catching eyewear!Our next post will probably be from the Vision Expo—follow us on Twitter and Facebook to see where we are and what we are doing!Thanks,Tim

Featured Frame Line: Chrome Hearts

***Featured Frame Line:  Chrome Hearts***Established in 1988, Chrome Hearts began by producing leather riding gear for friends and their extended families.  The company is an international luxury lifestyle company, integrating classic design with the highest standards for quality and craftsmanship.  Products range from distinctive handmade jewelry in sterling silver, gemstones, platinum and 22K gold; furniture made from exotic woods; and clothing made from the finest leathers and fabrics.In keeping with the Chrome Hearts tradition, the eyewear collection is, without a doubt one of the most innovative collections in fashion eyewear ever released.  Utilizing a diverse range of materials and inspired designs, this luxury eyewear collection—exclusively designed, manufactured and distributed by Chrome Hearts Eyewear, LLC—has earned the reputation as a leader in cutting-edge eyewear.Nothing but the greatest care is taken when selecting materials to ensure that the eyewear is a clearly defined extension of the Chrome Hearts design/brand philosophy.  Exotic woods, fine leathers, precious stones and sterling silver decorations are combined with the latest innovations in optical technology, metallurgy and laser engraving to produce a product worthy of the Chrome Hearts name.  For eyewear of this caliber, it is only appropriate that each case is made of the same high quality leather used in all Chrome Hearts leather products.We would love to show you our extensive collection of Chrome Hearts frames at Eye Elegance.  Please come in any time Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.***Trunk Show Update***Many thanks to everyone who came in for the Robert Marc Trunk show, including our great sales rep, Brian Harting.  You all made it a very fun and very successful show!  I’ll be announcing our next trunk show with a new featured frame line next week!Tim

What “size” frame do I wear?

Now and then a customer comes into the store and says something like “I can only wear a 47”, or “These frames are a 52.  I have to have something close to that size”, or “Can you tell me what size frame I should wear.”  It is all part of the myth that eyewear comes in sizes like your shoes or clothes, and it is true that some frames (not all) are imprinted with a “size” on the temple or bridge.  You should bear in mind that that is only one of many "sizes" that determine how a frame fits.  Really, it is a guide for the optician when it comes to ordering lenses than anything else.  Take a look at this diagram.For instance, a "47" eyesize with a 20mm DBL (distance between lenses, or bridge width) and 9mm endpieces will be much larger [(47x 2) + 20 + 18 = 132mm] overall than a "49" with a 16mm DBL and 5mm endpieces [(49 x 2) + 16 + 10 = 124mm].  In that example, a size "47" frame is 8mm, or about 3/8 inch larger than the size "49" frame. You can see in the second part of the diagram that even temple length can be affected by how the temple is attached to the frame.  If the temple hinge is attached to a 10mm long extender, a 135mm temple would fit the same as a 145mm temple with the hinge attached directly to the frame front.The shape of the lens, placement of the temples higher or lower in respect to the lens, and the thickness of the plastic or metal surrounding the lens all also affect the overall fit and appearance of the frame. The "frame size" is a VERY unreliable predictor of frame fit.  By varying the bridge width and endpiece size, it is possible for a “40” to fit the same as a “52”.  The real question always is--Does THIS frame fit me and do I like the way it looks?  At Eye Elegance we are experts in finding the right frame for your face, regardless of “size”!***Don’t forget the Robert Marc Trunk Show February 5***We are very excited to introduce this beautiful collection to Houston!  Come by on Saturday the 5th to view the entire collection of frames, have a bite to eat, and see our newly redesigned space!Also, be sure to visit the Special offers section of our website regularly!  We will have special offers available only for our website, Facebook and Twitter followers throughout the year!Tim

HUGE LA EYEWORKS SALE!!!

We are offering a HUGE sale on all in-stock LA EYEWORKS Frames!  This is the first sale of it’s kind, and we’re offering it only to our Facebook Fans, Twitter Followers, Website followers and email client list!  It’s so big that I can’t give you the details on my blog—click HERE to register for the sale, get the details and print out your sale coupon.!***New Frames***We have received the newest collection from Entourage of 7, and we LOVE them.  The new acetates are bold, big and in great new colors. Many of them include details like 10K gold-plated rivets, hinges and logos. The new titanium shapes are creative and lightweight, and have a great fit!  Entourage of 7 is the story about Rikke and Jakob Talbo, co-founders and motor behind Entourage of 7. After a decade working for industry leaders, in 2004 the native Danes decided to move from their home in Copenhagen to Los Angeles destined to live out their vision – creating their own luxury eyewear label. With home base and head quarters in Los Angeles the Entourage of 7 has branched out and is now represented in fine optical boutiques in more than 20 countries. ***Don’t Forget***Don’t forget the Robert Marc Trunk Show on February 5, 2011 from 11 to 5.  I am planning more events for later in the year, so keep reading!Tim

New Year, New Look, New Line!

Happy New Year from Eye Elegance! We have completed the remodel of our interior and, as I promised in December, I am proud to announce the arrival of a new frame line, the Robert Marc Collection.Robert Marc is recognized as a visionary in the world of eyewear.  After designing and consulting on many of the world’s most successful premier eyewear collections, Robert launched his own collection of luxury eyewear in 1999—for which Vogue magazine announced “Robert makes his Marc.”By combining classic and modern elements, he creates timeless eyewear designs.  He has revived the art of the handcrafted frame and subtly brands his eyewear with the trademarked Robert Marc hinge that is inspired by historical design and construction.  This signature hinge adds distinction and luxury to each frame and unifies the collection.  Fans of Robert Marc’s designs include celebrities such as Nicole Kidman, Reese Witherspoon, Julianne Moore, Uma Thurman and Matt Damon.  Recently, Robert’s designs have shown up in films such as Salt (Angelina Jolie), Wall Street 2: Money Never Sleeps (Shia LaBeouf, Michael Douglas) and When In Rome (Kristen Bell, Anjelica Huston) as well as TV’s Entourage, Grey’s Anatomy, How I Met Your Mother and CSI.***Save the Date***To celebrate the arrival of the Robert Marc Collection, and to give everyone a look at our new interior, we are having a ROBERT MARC TRUNK SHOW on Saturday, February 5, 2011!  Please join us from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. to view the entire collection, and have some food and drink to celebrate the New Year.  We believe that 2011 is going to be a great year!  We hope to see you soon!Tim

How dark should my sun lenses be?

There is a misconception that the darker the lenses are, the more protection they provide.  To analyze this statement we first have to define protection.  The most important thing lenses can protect the wearer from is ultraviolet light.  UV light is measured in waves at the lower end of the light spectrum, 0 - 400nm.  These waves are not visible to the human eye but they are what causes a sunburn if we stay outside without protection.  What filters out this light in a pair of glasses or sunglasses is virtually colorless.  The amount of tint in a pair of sunglasses only shades the wearer’s eyes from the brightness of the light.Having lenses really dark can be detrimental.  Shading the eyes from ambient light causes the pupils to dilate, or get larger.  This increase in pupil aperture makes it more difficult to focus, especially up close, and allows more UV light to enter the eye.  Therefore, if the lenses do not have a UV400 filter and are dark, they actually allow more damaging UV light to enter the eye.Sensitivity to light is what is corrected with tints in lenses.  An individual’s sensitivity to light is unique.  Some people are extremely annoyed by bright light and others have no issues.  Your lenses should be tinted just enough to keep from squinting and no more.  For most people this is about 55 – 85% tint or 15 – 45 % light transmittance.  If you want to reduce glare or unwanted reflected light, a tinted lens will offer some comfort, but a polarized lens will perform even better.  In order to eliminate glare you need a polarizing filter or polarized lenses.  They work by eliminating reflective glare, also known as “blinding glare”.  This is the type of blinding light that may be reflected off of the water, or from car windows, car trunks and other highly reflective surfaces.    Polarized lenses come in many lens materials and lens designs offering anyone who demands true performance in their prescription or non-prescription sunwear many options.Hope this clears things up,Happy New Year!Daniel Protz

Tips For a Rewarding Eyewear Purchasing Experience

Wouldn’t it be nice, if every time you go shopping the salesperson knew everything you liked and every unique thing about you?   This would make your shopping experience delightful and everything you purchased a perfect fit.In our dispensary we get to know our patients and their particular needs, but every once in a while we help someone we do not know.  Your time is valuable, and we certainly want to get things right the first time around!  You shouldn’t have to return saying you have to dip your head to see at distance, or tilt your head to go up stairs.  Sharing information is the most important thing you can do.  It is our job to try and get useful information before we measure, fit or adjust your eyewear.  However, here are a few things that help us make your glasses work best for you:Maintain a natural posture while we take measurements.  Hold your head naturally—this is especially important if you are very tall, or very small.Let us know what your primary visual needs are.  A long-haul truck driver may primarily use his distance vision, while a       jeweler may spend most of her time doing extremely close work.  If you work on a computer 8 hours a day, you may benefit from an occupational lens that works best for intermediate distances (24-48 inches).Some occupations, for example pilots, plumbers and musicians, may benefit from special lens designs. Athletes, construction personnel and craftsmen may benefit from lens materials that are more impact-resistant. Let us know how your lifestyle may affect our lens choice.Please, let us know if you have had any prior negative experiences with your eyewear, such as:Lenses which are thicker than you would like.Lenses which cracked.Frames which were too heavy or otherwise uncomfortable.Frames which irritated your nose or ears.Frames which broke to easily.If a progressive or multifocal, how was your experience?  Did you have sufficient distant, intermediate and near vision?Did you feel as though your eyewear caused headaches?Have you ever experienced double vision.Have you felt that your vision was different between several pairs of glasses?Frames which slid down your nose, or didn’t fit properly.Color-changing lenses that didn’t live up to your expectations.It is important that you bring your old eyewear with you, especially if you have experienced any issues so that we can examine them.  Some lenses also give us important information.  For instance, progressive lenses all come with laser engravings that tell us what brand, design and material your lenses are.We want to make your eyewear purchase experience a good one.  We really want your next visit to be for your next pair, or to drop in to say hello!  Having all the information that we can makes this process much easier, so do yourself a favor and help us help you. Thanks and Merry Christmas!Daniel Protz

Welcome to the Buyer’s Blog

Welcome to a new feature on our website!  I will be using this space to give you product information, to let you know when new frame styles arrive and to make important announcements, as well as to share pictures from our buying trips and to let you know about upcoming events.***Don’t forget your FSA***If you have money set aside in a Flexible Spending Account, or Health Savings Account you may need to use that money by December 31 or lose it forever.  Glasses or Prescription Sunglasses are a great way to use those dollars.  We can accept your FSA debit card or provide you with an itemized receipt for submission.  Can’t get an exam before the end of the year?  No problem—we can hold your order for as long as you need and use those pre-tax dollars today!***New Look***We are almost complete in our remodel of the office interior.  We have new carpet and a new paint job—we’re just waiting for a couple of new furniture pieces and the new look will be complete.  Check this space in January for an announcement about a trunk show to celebrate the new year, our new website, our new look and a BRAND NEW FRAME LINE!***Cartier News***Speaking of new frames, Cartier has released the “Collection Première Cartier”.  It is a “Première” collection because it is the first time Cartier uses acetate in its optical eyewear range.  They are smart, sophisticated and beautiful—totally Cartier.  “Première” because of its simple shapes, which revisit the sixties look with the discreet luxury of temples marked by unique tubular piston hinges.  Each one-color or gradient-color frame is enhanced by décor in a platinum and gold or a ruthenium finish.Adieu until next month,Tim

Welcome to Our New 'Look'

Thank you for stopping by the newly redesigned EyeElegance.com.  Along with our new 'look', we are excited to bring you helpful information, tips and special offers through our blog and newsletters which will launch soon. Please click here to join our email list to be the first to hear about our sales and new arrivals.  A selection of the unique eyeglasses, sunglasses and accessories will be posted regularly in our Style section.  Beautiful photos will be featured regularly from some of our top brands including Cartier, Chanel, Lindberg, Oliver Peoples, Paul Smith, Judith Leiber, l.a. Eyeworks, David Yurman, Etnia Barcelona, Theo, Chrome Hearts, and more.We would love to hear what you think so please take a moment to drop us a line by clicking on 'Leave a Comment' below.  We appreciate your time and for the over twenty fabulous years we have had serving the eyewear needs of the best customers in Houston.Follow us:  Twitter.com/EyeElegance  Become a fan:  Facebook.com/EyeElegance