Philadelphia is a city where history meets modern innovation, and this blend extends to its independent eyewear scene. From the vibrant streets of Center City to the charming neighborhoods of Old City and beyond, Philadelphia offers a range of optical boutiques dedicated to providing distinctive and high-quality eyewear. These stores focus on craftsmanship, individuality, and a personalized shopping experience, making them the perfect destinations for those seeking unique eyeglasses. This guide explores some of the best places in Philadelphia to find independent eyeglasses.
Philadelphia’s Best Independent Eyeglass Retailers
Blink Optical
Address: 415 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19147
About Blink Optical
Blink Optical is a premier eyewear boutique located in Philadelphia’s vibrant South Street District. They offer a curated collection of designer eyewear that combines the latest trends with exceptional craftsmanship. Their mission is to provide exquisite eyewear that enhances vision and serves as a statement of unique style and personality.
Independent Eyeglasses Carried by Blink Optical in 2025
Blink Optical features a large selection of luxury frames from independent designers. Their collection includes frames from:
and more.
Contact Information
- Address: 415 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19147
- Phone: (267) 758-5182
Modern Eye
Locations:
- University City: 3419 Walnut St., Philadelphia, PA 19104
- Center City: 145 South 13th St. (NE corner of 13th & Walnut), Philadelphia, PA 19107
About Modern Eye
Modern Eye is a full-service optical boutique with two locations in Philadelphia. They offer a curated selection of handcrafted frames from independent designers, focusing on unique styles and quality craftsmanship. Their staff is dedicated to helping customers find the right frame for fit, comfort, and style, whether classic, modern, professional, or avant-garde.
Independent Eyeglasses Carried by Modern Eye in 2025
Modern Eye features a massive selection of frames from many independent designers worldwide. Their collection features frames from:
and many more.
Contact Information
- University City:
- Address: 3419 Walnut St., Philadelphia, PA 19104
- Phone: 215-386-5953
- Center City:
- Address: 145 South 13th St. (NE corner of 13th & Walnut), Philadelphia, PA 19107
- Phone: 215-922-3300
- Website: modern-eye.com
- Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
- Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (University City Only)
Omni Vision Opticians
Address: 1230 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107
About Omni Vision Opticians
Established in July 1991, Omni Vision Opticians has been serving the Philadelphia community for over three decades. Located at the intersection of 13th and Chestnut Streets in Center City, they offer a curated selection of high-quality eyewear, including exclusive collections from renowned designers like Cartier. Their mission is to provide exceptional eyewear that combines functionality with distinctive style.
Independent Eyeglasses Carried by Omni Vision Opticians in 2025
Omni Vision Opticians carries a selection of frames from independent designers around the world. Including frames from:
and more.
Contact Information
- Address: 1230 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107
- Phone: 215-977-7700
- Email: omnivisionstaff@gmail.com
- Website: omnivisionphilly.com
- Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
Eyesite
Address: 111 S 18th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103
About Eyesite
Eyesite is a distinguished optical boutique in Philadelphia’s Rittenhouse Square, offering museum-caliber eyewear and customized spectacles for discerning enthusiasts. They source their collection from small independent manufacturers worldwide, featuring frames made from materials like horn, wood, leather, stone, high-quality acetate, and metal. Their mission is to provide the best possible look without optical compromise.
Independent Eyeglasses at Eyesite
Eyesite offers a curated selection of handcrafted frames from independent designers, focusing on exceptional design and rich history in spectacle making. Eyesite also offers a bespoke service for people with special glasses needs or desires. They allow you to design your own frames, selecting material, style and more to handcraft custom frames made just for you.
Contact Information
- Address: 111 S 18th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103
- Phone: 215-557-0757
- Email: info@eyesite-phila.com
- Website: eyesite-phila.com
Discover independent eyewear with Project Spex. Every Friday, we deliver the latest in collectible eyewear and your favorite independent designers.
Sign up now and never miss a thing!
About The Author:
Will Benjamin is an advocate for independent eyewear and one of the driving forces behind Project Spex. With a passion for unique, collectible, and limited-edition eyewear, Will aims to inspire people to build their own collections through Project Spex, while supporting the success of independent opticals.