A directory of the best optometrists for unique frames in Melbourne
PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICOLE WILLIAMS
WORDS BY DEANA STEPANIAN
Start building your eyewear wardrobe.
At age sixteen, I opted for classic black-rimmed frames. I was emo, and my dad forced me to get my eyes checked. I still haven’t gotten around to renewing that prescription (sorry Dad) and recently, I realised I may have put off the whole ordeal because of the lack of unique frames on the market.
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Luckily for you, this led me to my search for the most interesting frames here in Melbourne. After extensive research, I’ve put together a guide to some of the coolest optometrists for unique eyewear.
Seekers
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For those who are after luxury eyewear that’s backed by state-of-the-art eye health technology, Seekers is the one for you. An independent and family-owned practice, Seekers is located in the heart of Fitzroy. Its stylish collection is comprised of brands like Balmain, Dita, Oliver Peoples and Thierry Lasry.
203 Gertrude Street, Fitzroy
Specs
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Specs is all about looking good and, of course, seeing well. The locally-owned optometrist, based in Northcote, offers handmade eyewear sourced from independent designers across the globe. With the help of optical stylist John Nguyen, you’re guaranteed to cop something à la mode.
282a High Street, Northcote
Peep Optical
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Located in the Yarraville village, Peep Optical is an independent eyewear boutique inspired by minimalistic, thoughtful and unique design. Its range of female, male and unisex options features a variety of colours and shapes for all personalities.
17 Anderson Street, Yarraville
Wink Optometrists
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With a focus on handcrafted eyewear made by true artisans, Wink Optometrists offers a selection of playful, colourful and always-quality glasses. Optometrist Jo Twaddell founded Wink as an alternative to the mass-produced eyewear market, and the team’s technical knowledge and creative flair make trying something different feel easy.
Shop 1/125 Ormond Road, Elwood
Eye St
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Described as “a curated gallery of runway-ready eyewear design,” Eye St is where designer frames meet first-class eye health. Its collection includes global Cutler and Gross, Balmain and Linda Farrow.
433 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy VIC 3065
Bailey Nelson
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Bailey Nelson’s range of Australian-made frames is both high quality and affordable. Its simple, modern vision draws inspiration from current trends, merging traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design. Using materials like custom-designed cellulose acetate and ultra-lightweight titanium, Bailey Nelson frames are made to last.
Locations across Melbourne
Oscar Wylee
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With a pair of frames for every person, mood and occasion, Oscar Wylee is the optometrist providing quality eyecare for those across Australia, New Zealand and Canada. Its range of modern and vintage-inspired frames is affordable, so you can start building up your glasses wardrobe.
Locations across Melbourne
Che Eyewear
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Che Eyewear is an eclectic boutique located in Fitzroy, specialising in vintage eyewear from the ’60s, ’80s and ’90s. Additionally, Che stocks a curated selection of contemporary eyewear, featuring brands like Karen Walker, Le Specs and AM Eyewear.
363 Smith Street, Fitzroy
For information on how to find the best frames for your face, head here.