ZenniOptical.com: Prescription glasses from $6.95

This photo shows a close-up of a pair of purple cat-eye glasses ordered from Zenni Optical. Glasses start at $6.95 a pair. (WTOP/Lacey Mason)
Users who want to try on glasses virtually can upload a photo of themselves to Zenni Optical. The system may ask users to select their pupils for better accuracy. After WTOP's Lacey Mason selected her pupils, the system automatically tilted the photo. (Screenshot/Zenni Optical)
When you take your photo, make sure to follow the instructions. (Screenshot/Zenni Optical)
Zenni Optical lets shoppers virtually try on glasses with surprising accuracy. WTOP's Lacey Mason wears a pair of brown cat-eye frames. In real life, she owns the purple version. (Screenshot/Zenni Optical)
WTOP's Lacey Mason virtually tries on a pair of tiger-striped cat-eye glasses. Zenni Optical lets users upload a photo to see what frames will look like before purchase. (Screenshot/Zenni Optical)
If shoppers can't upload a photo of themselves, they can select from a variety of pre-loaded photos. These stock images show both genders as well as different complexions and face shapes. (Screenshot/Zenni Optical)
If shoppers can't upload a photo of themselves, they can select from a variety of pre-loaded photos. These stock images show both genders as well as different complexions and face shapes. (Screenshot/Zenni Optical)
This photo shows a close-up of a pair of glasses ordered from Zenni Optical. The total cost for this black pair with pink accents was $32.90, including anti-reflective glare. (WTOP/Lacey Mason)
This photo shows a close-up of a pair of glasses ordered from Zenni Optical with anti-reflective glare. (WTOP/Lacey Mason)
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Lacey Mason, wtop.com

WASHINGTON – A new school year is on the horizon for kids, college students and teachers. That means it’s time to shell out cash for new sneakers, textbooks and pencils.

But what about glasses? While some eye care facilities boast deals like “Two for $69,” the actual cost is significantly higher when anti-reflective glare, scratch resistance coatings, better-quality lenses and style preferences are taken into account. Plus, for families with multiple glasses-wearers, more prescriptions are needed.

And, if you’re a forgetful klutz like me, the cost of losing and breaking glasses adds up.

Well, hold-on to your horn-rims because today’s Website of the Week may offer a solution.

Zenni Optical, an online prescription eyeglass store, offers complete pairs of glasses ranging in price from $6.95 to $49.

All glasses come standard with anti-scratch coating and a protective case.

There are a few items that cost extra, but even those prices are less than those at most chain stores. Shipping costs $4.95 for an entire order.

My last order was less than $70 for three pairs. Due to indecision and a tendency to lose things, I’ve owned five pairs of Zenni glasses.

To find out what your glasses will look like, you can virtually try on glasses by uploading a photo or using a variety of stock images of all genders, ages, complexions and face shapes.

From there, you’re ready to start trying on.

To order, you’ll want to obtain your prescription from your doctor. In addition to the strengths needed for each eye, make sure the doctor includes your pupillary distance (PD). This important measurement is the distance between the center of your pupils when looking straight on. If need be, you also can measure your PD yourself by printing out this handy ruler.

Glasses are delivered to your door within two weeks.

Check out the slideshow above and to the right to see screenshots from the upload and try-on process, as well as photos of actual glasses ordered from the site.

All in all, whether you’re strapped for cash, tend to lose things or just want a cheap way to spice up your wardrobe, Zenni Optical has something for everyone.

Follow Lacey Mason and WTOP on Twitter.

(Copyright 2012 by WTOP. All Rights Reserved.)

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