Photo: Hailey Bollinger



Online glasses retailer Warby Parker — known for their try-before-you-buy hip (and hipster) frames, affordable price point (starting at $95) and delivery service — is opening a brick-and-mortar storefront in Over-the-Rhine (somewhat ironically in the former Frameri Cincy-based eyeglasses start-up storefront, which dissolved earlier this year).

Photo: ProvidedThe shop at 1419 Vine St. will be Warby's third Ohio storefront (with additional locations in Cleveland and Columbus) and it will feature unique artwork from illustrator Maira Kalman — a colorful woman and her hedgehog behind the reference desk. The entire space has been designed to feel like a library, according to a press release, with "marble-topped tables, colorful displays of books, and brass accents galore, plus our full collection of eyeglasses and sunglasses on oak shelving."

Outside in an alcove, there is also a statue of a blue-footed booby bird because Warby has "always identified with its curious expression, charming tuxedo-esque plumage, and sense of playfulness, as evidenced by its signature blue stompers." Fans of taking photos with 21c Museum Hotel's yellow penguin will enjoy a similar selfie set-up here.

“We’re excited to join the community in Over-the-Rhine,” said Warby Parker co-founder and co-CEO Neil Blumenthal in a press release. “There are so many neighbors we’re eager to meet and there’s tons to take in. We’re especially happy to be just blocks away from Washington Park.”

Photo: ProvidedTo celebrate the grand opening of the OTR shop, Warby is releasing a pair of limited-edition Cincinnati-specific sunglasses: the Flynn in a Smoky Quartz Crystal. The shop will also have a selection of kids glasses in store. At the shop, you can try on any or all of the different frames. If you find a pair you like, give Warby your prescription and the frames will be shipped to your home. If you find a pair of frames you like and you don't want prescription lenses, you can buy them and go straight from the store.

Warby Parker opened in 2010 and now employs over 1,500 people and has over 75 physical stores around the U.S. and Canada.

The OTR Warby Parker location will open Saturday, Oct. 27 with store hours 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Saturday and noon-6 p.m. Sunday



