Eyewear has always been crucial for vision correction and sun protection, but functionality isn’t its only appeal.
While luxury eyewear has always had its audience, the surging popularity of designer pieces highlights just how sought-after these accessories can be. In fact, the value of the global luxury eyewear market is expected to reach $40.84 billion by 2030, up from $34.76 billion in 2024. Since these frames are made of premium materials and carry the names of prestigious luxury brands, it’s no surprise that more people are investing hundreds and sometimes thousands of dollars in these high-quality specs.
As with any designer piece, it’s essential to have proper storage for your luxury eyewear. Doing so can help preserve longevity and maintain value, allowing your frames to feel and look as good as new, even years down the line. But how exactly can you store and care for your glasses? Below, we look at some safe storage tips for your designer eyewear.
Popular designer brands
There is a wide range of staple luxury brands that make frames able to stand the test of time. Take the eyeglasses from Ray-Ban, which feature timeless styles like the Clubmaster and Wayfarer Optics. These frames, which come with a handy care kit and a shell case, are made of lightweight acetate with hypoallergenic qualities, making them a viable option for sensitive skin. Other timeless pieces include the Medusa Biggie Glasses and Medusa Deco Squared Glasses from Versace, which are characterized by thick frames with golden embellishments that add a touch of style.
Given the costs of these frames, proper storage is essential. Here are some safe storage tips.
Tips for storing and handling designer eyewear
Use a hard case
A sturdy case is a reliable storage solution for your luxury eyewear piece. A hard case protects your frames from external threats like scratches, bumps, and pressure, especially if you need to place them in your bag while traveling. While optical retailers give a free glasses case, you can also purchase a harder or sturdier one for extra precaution. Opt for a case that is magnetized or one that has a clasp so it won’t open easily. Also, make sure to place your eyewear with the lenses facing upward to avoid scratches over time.
Pack with caution
If you’re moving out and need to bring your designer eyewear pieces, it’s always best to pack them safely. To do this, you can follow standard procedures for packing glass items and avoiding scratches and other damage. Start by putting your specs in their hard cases and placing them in a box with ample storage. Then, you can separate each case using bubble wrap, which can absorb shock during transit and avoid potential damage to your frames. You can also separate cases with soft materials like packing peanuts to cushion your designer specs. To minimize further jostling or movement, try placing the box containing your eyewear pieces in a shock-free location.
Use a rack or organizer at home
Don’t leave your frames hanging out in the open at home, as this can lead to misplacement and external damage. Instead, invest in a storage rack or organizer to help sort out your designer eyewear pieces, especially if your collection is starting to grow. These organizers can house multiple pairs simultaneously, with each slot separating your specs to avoid scratches and entanglement. A rack also lets you quickly find your eyewear pieces, providing easier access if you need them. This is especially useful if you often switch between designer glasses to suit your outfits on different occasions.
Ensure a cool, dry place for storage
A good storage environment is also crucial in maintaining the quality and condition of your designer eyewear. Specs are sensitive to extreme heat, which can damage lens coatings and cause plastic frames to warp. Meanwhile, too much moisture can also cause corrosion in screws and metallic parts. That said, make sure that you store your specs in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, heaters, and areas with high humidity. Ensuring a conducive environment for storing your designer specs is an excellent way to preserve your eyewear’s premium materials and longevity.
Clean your glasses before storing them
Dirt, dust, and other foreign debris can accumulate in your glasses, leading to grime buildup. To avoid that, use a microfiber cloth to gently wipe off dirt from your eyewear before storing or packing them. If you need water to clean them, use bottled water, as tap water may contain natural minerals that could damage the lenses. Avoid materials with rough surfaces like tissue paper and window glass cleaning agents, as these can damage your lenses’ protective coating. Ensuring your designer specs are clean and dry before storage can help maintain their quality.
Designer eyewear pieces are an investment, and taking care of them can help preserve the premium quality that defines these specs. If you want to ensure their longevity, make sure to properly store and carefully pack your high-quality frames.
For more tips and help with packing and shipping your luxury eyewear and other items, check out our services on the Fine Art Shippers website.