Shopping for eyewear can be quite an experience, and I’ve made several mistakes along the way that have left me feeling slightly myopic. From mistaking stylish frames for binoculars to realising my prescription was meant for a small dog, my trips to the optical shop have been quite an adventure! In this list, I’ll share my top ten common mistakes you might encounter at optical shops in Singapore, all while trying to keep it light-hearted, because who doesn’t love a good laugh at their own expense? Let’s dive in!
Ignoring Eye Examinations
While I may have thought that skipping eye examinations was a brilliant idea, I soon realised it was like trying to navigate a maze blindfolded. I mean, who needs to see the world clearly anyway? I had no idea that my eyes were gradually losing their clarity. Just because I could read street signs from a distance didn’t mean I was safe!
Graduated from YouTube
YouTube can seem like a treasure trove of knowledge, but trusting it for eye care advice is a recipe for disaster. I’ve watched countless videos on eye exercises and DIY vision tests, only to end up with a shopping list of dubious remedies! My obsession with digital advice could have easily turned me into a bearded guru, but sadly, I still needed my specs and not a lifestyle overhaul!
“I see fine!”
Some of us believe that our vision is as sharp as that of a hawk. I was one of those arrogant individuals, confidently declaring, “I see fine!” even as I squinted at my friend across the room. Little did I know, my idea of “fine” was actually more of a blurry Picasso painting. Ignoring my need for an eye exam meant I was living in a world of fuzzy edges, and let me tell you, it’s hard to appreciate the beauty of a sunset when it looks like someone smeared it with a finger!
In reality, my vision had been gradually diminishing, akin to the last chocolate biscuit in a tin. I felt invincible until I realised I was wrongly diagnosing myself as ‘squint’ and not ‘blind as a bat’. Once I got my eyes checked, I learnt that being a ‘vision expert’ on YouTube doesn’t really cut it. Upon undergoing a thorough eye examination, I discovered the wonders of prescription lenses, which transformed my blurry days into dazzling clarity, one fashionable pair at a time!
Overlooking Lens Options
Some people may enter an optical shop with the misconception that all lenses are the same, but I assure you, this is not the case. I once opted for the basic lenses, mistakenly believing they would suffice. Little did I know, the anti-reflective coating would have saved me from glaring screens and awkward stares while strolling down Orchard Road. Lesson learnt—always ask about options; you might just save your eyes and your dignity!
Staring at screens
On one particularly dreary day, I found myself glued to my computer for hours on end, sans blue light filter. I could practically hear my eyes screaming for help! If only I’d considered special lenses to ease the strain. Now, I feel like a fool, squinting at screens like some confused owl instead of enjoying clarity.
“Bifocals? What are those?”
Lens options can be akin to a magical illusion; one moment you may believe you comprehend the situation, and the next, you may find yourself completely perplexed. Bifocals are those clever lenses that let you see up close and far away without having to swap your glasses constantly. They come with two distinct areas of vision—one for distance and another for reading—so you can finally stop misreading those tiny labels on takeout containers!
Interesting Posts
Bifocals are truly revolutionary. I often chuckle at how I used to think they were only for retirees, but now they’re my best mates. With them, I can read my favourite book and simultaneously monitor what’s happening on Netflix. It’s like having a two-in-one deal for your eyes! So don’t be shy; if you need them, just embrace it — and maybe share a laugh or two at the optical shop while you’re at it!
Wrong Frame Sizes
Having spent a lifetime wearing incorrect frame sizes, I can attest to the challenge of finding the perfect pair. I once thought I could rock those oversized glasses that were meant for someone with a much bigger head. Let’s just say I ended up looking like a startled owl, and my friends couldn’t stop laughing. Everything seems enjoyable until your glasses slip down your nose with each nod. Trust me, save yourself the embarrassment and get the right size!
Borrowing from Friends
While borrowing my friend’s trendy frames for a night out seemed like a great idea, I quickly realised that not every pair is suitable for my face. I was strutting down the street, feeling fabulous until I realised the frames were nowhere near my size, causing me to look more like a clown than a fashionista. Of course, my friends had a good laugh, and yes, I returned the frames with a note of apology!
Snagging on Hairstyles
Even with the most stylish frames, snagging on your hairstyle can still occur. I once had a lovely updo that I thought was sophisticated – until the moment I donned my glasses. It felt like my hair had formed a close bond with the frames, and my attempts to adjust them turned into a disastrous hair-pulling episode. I must admit, it was more of a comedy sketch than a fashion statement.
Erroneous hairstyles and glasses can quickly become a challenge. The last time I put on my glasses with an elegant bun, it ended with half of my hair being pulled out as the frame got hopelessly tangled. My hair seemed to be attempting to assert its independence! Let’s just say I now choose my frames wisely based on my hairstyle. No one warned me about the juggling act involved! Who knew glasses could lead to such hair-raising moments!
Flavorless Fashion Choices
For someone like me, making fashion choices can often feel as uninteresting as eating plain toast. I mean, there I was, strutting into an optical shop, wanting some stylish specs, but instead, I picked the least exciting frames that made me look like I walked straight out of a 90s sitcom. Honestly, I could have made a statement with something bold, but I just opted for the flavourless option. Lesson learnt: life’s too short for boring glasses!
Pulling off ‘Dad Look’
Look, I’ve found myself caught in the ‘dad look’ trap. I thought, why not go for those oversized glasses that scream ‘I have three kids and a minivan’? They seemed comfortable at the time, but I ended up resembling a slightly confused librarian. Who knew that glasses could transform my image from trendy to tragically underwhelming in a blink?
Discount Store Regrets
Assuming I was saving some cash, I thought I could snag a deal at a discount store. Warning: not all savings are equal. I ended up with a pair of glasses that were more gimmick than glamour, with lenses that felt like I was looking through jelly. A few days in, I realised I had made a hasty decision that left me squinting at life instead of seeing it clearly!
Flavourless choices often lead to long-lasting regrets. I still recall that day as I wandered into the discount optical store, lured by the prices but trapped by the quality. Those bright orange frames seemed like a steal until they turned into a fashion nightmare. I found myself explaining to friends that my eyewear was merely an “artistic choice” when really, I was just trying to save a quid! Trust me, when it comes to glasses, sometimes you really do get what you pay for.
Forgetting Maintenance Advice
To be honest, I’ve been guilty of ignoring maintenance advice when I pick up my latest pair of glasses. It’s so easy to get caught up in the excitement of my new eyewear and forget that those lovely lenses need a bit of TLC. I once left my glasses sitting in a sunny spot, and when I put them on, I felt like I was wearing a stained-glass window! A few kind reminders from the staff at my local optical shop really helped me understand the importance of upkeep.
Smudges? No problem!
Advice: If you’re similar to me, your glasses may become a canvas filled with fingerprints and smudges. Fortunately, cleaning solutions are at your disposal. A quick spray and a gentle wipe with a microfibre cloth can have you seeing the world as clearly as ever. Trust me, nothing beats the feeling of putting on freshly cleaned glasses!
Bathing in sunlight
Problem: You might think that exposing your glasses to sunlight is a good idea, but it can actually lead to fading and damage!
This was an unfortunate lesson I learnt the hard way when my beloved shades became a shade lighter. I fancied myself a sun worshipper, but my poor specs were left to bake on a picnic blanket. The result? A severely discoloured frame that made me look as if I were wearing a relic from a 90s TV show. So, keep your eyewear out of the sun and in a safe place, and they’ll last you ages!
Skipping Stylish Accessories
Your eyewear is just one part of expressing your unique style. When I visited an optical shop, I noticed a little tray filled with quirky, stylish accessories. I thought, “Why not add a bit of pzazz?” But instead, I skipped the accessories and ended up with the most boring pair of glasses ever. I am now perplexed as to why I appear to be auditioning for a role in a 1980s school drama.
Boring Cases Lost
Clearly, I can’t overstate the importance of a good glasses case. I once bought a lovely pair of specs only to toss them recklessly into my bag, and they ended up getting scratched. My heart sank as I realised I’d said goodbye to the lush velvet case that came with them. Apparently, my bag is more like a swirling vortex of chaos than a protective haven!
Who Needs a Chain?
If you’re like me, you’ve probably thought about those fashionable chains that are making a comeback. I used to scoff at the idea, thinking they were relics of the past, until one particularly frantic morning led me to glare at my glasses dangling precariously off my face.
Accessories can play a crucial role in your eyewear journey! A trendy chain doesn’t just hold your glasses; it also adds instant flair. The next time I visit the optical shop, I’ll be reconsidering those chains, as, despite not being a fashionista, I appreciate a touch of practical style. Plus, it would save me from another pair of scratched lenses!
Choosing the Wrong Colour
Often, I find myself in an optical shop, convinced that a bold new colour will enhance my look. Little did I know that the shades I was eyeing could quickly turn into a fashion disaster! Picking glasses isn’t just about seeing better; it’s about seeing better while looking good too! Who knew that selecting the perfect colour could be such a challenge?
“I thought Grey was cool!”
The day I decided grey was going to be my new eyewear statement will forever remain etched in my memory. I confidently walked into the shop, ready to embrace my inner fashionista. But as soon as I popped them on, I realised I looked less like a chic trendsetter and more like a lost librarian. I believe that my friends were nearly unconscious from laughter when they observed my slightly dull grey frames.
Blending in too well
Grey can sometimes have the unfortunate side effect of blending in too well with everything. It began as a simple choice; I thought it would match with all my outfits. But one evening, I wore my grey frames to a party, and let’s just say I almost became part of the furniture. Every time someone called my name, I would blink in confusion, wondering if I was actually in the middle of a “Where’s Wally?” book. It turns out that being fashionable doesn’t mean fading into the background!
Not Asking Questions
Once again, I found myself in an optical shop, squinting at frame options as though they were ancient hieroglyphs. It’s honestly baffling how many people, including myself, forget to ask questions while shopping for glasses. I remember once buying a pair, only to realise they had an unwanted tint, which was, quite obviously, not the statement I was trying to make!
Nodding like a yes-man
Assuming that the optician knows what I want has often led me to the land of regret. I once nodded along when they suggested trendy cat-eye frames, thinking I’d look fabulous. Spoiler: I looked more like a confused owl than the fashionable feline I envisioned!
Googling later!
Like any sensible shopper, I thought I’d just Google everything once I got home. Unfortunately, my enthusiasm waned as soon as I realised I couldn’t remember the name of the frame style. I spent hours in a vortex of “how to choose glasses for your face shape” articles, only to find out I still had no idea what I was searching for.
My whimsical journey through Googling led me into a maze of optical jargon. I ended up with a plethora of information but no clear idea on whether I should be after aviators, rectangles, or, heaven forbid, those massive funky frames that make me look like a hipster who has forgotten my coffee. Honestly, I wish I had asked a few questions at the shop instead of relying solely on fate and search engines!
Overconfidence in Fitting
Not everyone is a master at fitting their own eyewear, but that doesn’t stop us from thinking we are! I once believed I could waltz into an optical shop and leave with the perfect pair of glasses without a second thought. Warning: I overestimated my ability to choose frames that actually matched my face shape, resulting in me looking like a confused giraffe!
“I don’t need help!”
Overconfidence often leads us to think, “I don’t need help!” I proudly marched into a shop without seeking advice. Little did I know, those oversized frames I chose made me look like I’d just stolen my grandad’s specs!
Can’t see my nose!
Even when you’ve picked an epic pair of frames, things can go hilariously wrong. I was in a situation where the reflection obscured my nose! The frames were hopelessly out of alignment. I tried adjusting them myself, only to make the situation worse, ending up with spectacles that were practically warping the laws of physics!
Any optical journey can be filled with mishaps, particularly during the fitting process. Even though you may believe you’re an expert in fitting glasses, nothing can prepare you for the realisation that those “stylish” glasses are positioned too high, causing your reflection to resemble a startled owl. Trust me, it’s best to have a professional take a look and save yourself from optical embarrassment!
Upon reflecting, I must say that visiting optical shops can sometimes feel like a comedy sketch. I once purchased a pair of trendy glasses only to discover they made me look like a hipster librarian! And let’s not even mention the time I tried on contact lenses for the first time—I nearly tried to blink them into submission. So, my advice is simple: embrace the laughter in those little optical mishaps, choose wisely, and perhaps avoid buying eyewear that rivals your favourite sitcom character!
FAQ
Q: What are some common mistakes people make when buying glasses?
A: One of the most amusing mistakes I’ve seen involves folks thinking they can just grab a pair off the shelf that looks trendy without considering their prescription. I once witnessed a friend buy a dazzling pair of pink cat-eye glasses because they thought they would be the next fashion icon. Fast forward a week, and she was back in the shop looking as confused as a goat on astroturf—turns out they were completely wrong for her eyesight! It’s vital to ensure you actually get your eyes tested and not play a game of optical roulette.
Q: Why is it important to discuss your lifestyle with an optician?
A: Oh, this one’s a classic! Once, I sauntered into an optical shop and simply asked for ‘the most stylish glasses’. After my ostentatious behaviour, a knowledgeable optician enquired about my lifestyle. It became apparent I played football every Saturday, and wearing stylish but fragile frames wouldn’t be sensible. Imagine trying to look good while getting smacked in the face by a rogue football! In the end, I left with robust sports glasses, but I’ll never outlive the indignity of the optician’s chuckles.
Q: Should I really invest in higher-quality lenses?
A: Without a doubt! I was once enticed by a flashy sale on budget lenses and thought I was the savvy shopper of the century. Fast-forward to the rainy season, and I was squinting through smeared glass like a confused mole. It wasn’t pretty! High-quality lenses are often anti-reflective and scratch-resistant and make everything clearer—like an instant upgrade from VHS to Blu-ray. Trust me, the extra quid spent is worth it!
Q: Can I just order glasses online without trying them on?
A: Ah, the online shopping trap! I once decided I was too good for fitting sessions and ordered a pair of round frames that looked fantastic on the model (of course!). When they arrived, I looked less like an intellectual and more like a confused owl. Lesson learnt! Trying on glasses allows you to consider how they fit your face shape—trust me, not everything that looks good on a website will flatter your visage!
Q: How often should I get my eyes checked?
A: A common oversight! I thought I could get away with checking my eyes once every few years. Spoiler alert: my eyes had other plans! During a routine visit, I found out my prescription had changed drastically. I went from ‘can’t see the whiteboard’ to ‘suddenly spotting all the birds in the park – who knew they were there?’ Regular checks are necessary, not just to keep you updated with the world around you but also to avoid turning into a startled deer on the road!
