As you are browsing our vast catalog of custom eyeglass frames, you may be wondering how to place an order for RX glasses. While it may seem more complex on the surface, placing an order with us is as easy as buying anything else over the Internet.
We know your first time may be a little daunting, so to help, we have developed a guide to help you start on the right foot. Check out our simple guide and discover how to place an order for RX glasses at Basames in just a few simple steps.
Purchasing eyeglasses online starts with choosing your frames. This is usually the most time-consuming part of the process, as it involves the most personal choice. If you already have a frame in mind, you can type it in the search bar and find the color you want. If you don't have a frame in mind, choosing your frames is a little easier when you keep the following things in mind:
Frame Shape
You are likely well aware of the most and least flattering clothing styles on your body. You can say the same thing about eyewear. Certain frame shapes will compliment your features, while others may emphasize the wrong attributes. The good news is you can usually predict the best frames for your face using your face shape.
Frame Size
A too-narrow frame will tend to make your face look wider, while a too-wide frame will make your face look narrower. While you may choose an over- or under-sized set of frames for stylistic reasons, it is generally best to find a pair of frames that fits you well. To this end, you will want properly sized frames. If you have an old pair of glasses, this will be fairly easy, all frames come with measurements one the temple arm.
Frame Color
Frame color is the last thing to consider when choosing a set of frames, but it can be one of the most important things in determining the style and overall look of your new eyewear. This is all up to your keen eye and deciding what looks best on you. Most frames come in several colors so you will never feel trapped in choosing one color on a frame you love.
Once you have selected the types of frames and lenses you want in your glasses, the next step is customizing your frames and lenses to your unique specifications with your prescription. To learn more, check out our guides.
OD is short for the Latin term oculus dexter which means right eye.
OS is an abbreviation of the Latin oculus sinister which means left eye. You’ll often see this terms on eyeglass prescriptions.
Sphere: The sphere (SPH) on your prescription indicates the lens power you need to see clearly. A minus (-) symbol next to this number means you’re nearsighted, and a plus (+) symbol means the prescription is meant to correct farsightedness.
Cylinder: The cylinder (CYL) number indicates the lens power needed to correct astigmatism. If this column is blank, it means you don’t have an astigmatism.
Axis: An axis number will also be included if you have an astigmatism. This number shows the angle of the lens that shouldn’t feature a cylinder power to correct your astigmatism.
Pupillary Distance (PD)
PD, or pupillary distance, refers to the distance in millimeters between the center of one pupil to the center of the other. Having a correct PD on your glasses prescription ensures that you are looking through the ideal spot in your lenses. If this number was not provided on your prescription by your eye care professional, you can measure it yourself.
Measure PD yourself
1. Place the ruler directly over the center of your right pupil so that the ruler is horizontal. Place against forehead for added stability. Stand in front of a mirror, or ask someone else to measure for you.
2. While looking straight ahead, measure the distance from the center of your right pupil to the center of your left pupil.
3. Repeat a couple of times for an accurate PD and use the average pupillary distance for your final measurement.
While the look of your glasses is important, their functionality is crucial. The quality and features of your lenses contribute most to your satisfaction with your eyewear, and you should pay particularly close attention to the options available to you. The lens thickness you choose is an important first step. Check out our lens index page for more info on this. Some of the things to keep in mind when placing an order for RX glasses include:
Visual Needs
The most important part of choosing your lenses is selecting the right ones for your visual needs. Depending on your eyes and your personal needs, you may require single-vision or multi-vision lenses, as prescribed by your optometrist.
Coatings
Once you have determined the right lenses for your visual needs, the next step is choosing the right kinds of coatings for your lifestyle. Anti-scratch, anti-reflection, water-repellant, and UV protective coatings are just a few of the options available to you to protect your eyes and your glasses from the elements and your daily wear and tear. If you are buying sunglasses, there are even more choices such as tint, gradient and reflective lenses.
