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Move over, Warby Parker—you just got some stiff competition over at Steven Alan. The New York-based retailer, which opened its Boston store several months ago, has finally introduced its eyewear kiosk, titled Steven Alan Optical. While the offerings are not in the same full-service setting as specialist Warby Parker up the street, Alan's collection is cleanly edited and priced somewhat competitively, given they have a bit more cool-kid cred than other similar options in the market. Shoppers are looking at more than 20 styles for men and women (including about 10 sunglasses) retailing $195 for optical frames, then $145 for nonprescription and $245 for prescription shades.
A bit about the glasses: They are sourced from a 150 year old factory in Italy, made from cellulose acetate, and each frame is constructed by the human hand in Brooklyn, NY. Matte styles are sandblasted one by one, while glossier pairs are the result of tumbled hardwood chips and olive oil. Glasses-lined shelves mark the eyewear corner of Steven Alan, with mirrors and notecards available to keep track of your favorite shades.
· Steven Alan Takes a Page from Warby Parker for New Optical Line
· Introducing: Steven Alan Optical [Steven Alan]
· Steven Alan Optical [Official Site]