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Contacts and Specs
Categories: Health and Medical Optometrists Shopping Eyewear & Opticians Optometrists, Eyewear & Opticians [Edit]
3144 N Broadway St(at Briar Pl)
Chicago, IL 60657
Neighborhood: Lakeview
(773) 880-5400
- Promotion lasts for 1 year from date of purchase. After that period, your Certificate is redeemable for the amount you paid, less any value you may have received. Not valid with other certificates or offers. Only 1 certificate(s) can be purchased for own use. Up to 3 can be purchased as gifts for others. Subject to the Yelp Deals General Terms.
- Reg. Price $80
- Discount 39%
- Savings $31
- Nearest Transit:
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Belmont (Brown Line, Purple Line, Red Line)
- Hours:
Mon-Tue, Thu 10 am - 7 pm
Fri-Sat 10 am - 5 pm
- Price Range:
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$$$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- By Appointment Only:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
40 reviews for Contacts and Specs
Review Highlights
"And they have a great selection of frames."
(in 23 reviews)
"...that helps measure you for glasses and fit you with some..."
(in 26 reviews)
"I purchased my Alain Mikli eyeglasses from their website..."
(in 3 reviews)
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40 reviews in English
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Review from Jamie C.
Chicago, IL
1/11/2012
[This is review is for the optometrist and contact fitting ONLY. I went specifically because I needed to get contacts, not glasses, and I made that clear from the start, so this review has nothing to do with the products they were selling or the price of those products.]
I chose C&S because they have wonderful Saturday hours, and because they were willing to schedule my exam on very short notice. I sent out emails to many optometrist offices, and a lot of them didn't bother to respond to my simple inquiry for days. Matt responded almost instantly AND had an appointment open the very next day. I arrived early, and my appointment began exactly on time. The optometrist was very professional, but also very kind. Being slightly near-sighted is a relatively new phenomenon for me, so I always feel a little out of my depth when it comes to my eyes. Dr. Vandana Gandhi was so nice - I didn't feel like I was being thrown into a sink-or-swim rush of tests where I don't know what's being asked of me (I'm talking to YOU, LensCrafters). I received a free trial pair of contacts, and checked out. I'll say up front: The exam plus contact fitting was expensive. However, I did receive the BCBS discount without any fuss (ended with a total of about $110 - that's the only reason I took away a star, and I already feel bad about that!)
Much to my amazement, they were also open Christmas Eve for my followup. Even though it was practically a holiday, Dr. Gandhi was just as nice and we chatted about our plans for Christmas. There was no rush and no waiting with C&S. It's hard to find a doctor who is both professional and genuinely caring, so I'll probably be back, expensive or not. I also needed my glasses and contacts prescription for a job application, and she wrote it out for me no problem. They set up an account for me on their website, so I could also access my prescription info and order contacts through them at any time. I'd recommend Dr. Gandhi to anyone and everyone who gets nervous going to the optometrist. -
Review from Robin M.
9/4/2011
Loving me some Matt and Contacts and Specs! I spent a good long time in there looking at glasses. Matt helped me -- I was simply lost and he was patient and kind (and cute as a button). Turns out they also take my insurance -- crappy as it is -- and I was able to get my exam and lenses under my plan. The frames were another story entirely (the ones that my insurance covered are hidden in the back -- and they should be. One pair made me look like Charles Nelson Reilly. Or a serial killer).
I had my eye exam with Dr.Vandana Gandhi; she was very nice and quite efficient. I never felt rushed or like I was bothering her by being there. Like, I'm not sure if the first or the second one looks clearer!! But she was super patient. And if you have ever been herded in and out during any kind of exam, you know how nice the other experience is. Plus she gave me a copy of my prescription.
Afterward, Matt and I looked at glasses. And looked at glasses. And then for fun we looked at glasses. I found a pair that looked so fierce that I actually squealed. My insurance contributed about 14 bucks toward my frame. So I forked over the most I have ever paid for a pair of glasses. I had to: they made me squeal. Then I got fitted by both Matt and the owner (I think). He's cute. Cute boys all around.
My only complaint is that you have to wait about 10 days for your glasses. Which interfered with my fierceness. But this ain't Lens Crafters. My eyeglasses are a work of art and art takes time. But I wanted them right away. Because I want what I want. They didn't care. Expect a bit of turnaround time.
Now I have them and I love them and I look fierce. So many compliments on them I'm getting a big head. Headed back there for the up-scale Japanese handmade Harry Potter glasses I can't live without. And they better get them fast. Because I wanna look all smart and some junk!Listed in: My Neighborhood, Born to Shop, You know, fun places!
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Review from Jill S.
Chicago, IL
9/4/2011
I went to Contacts and Specs to see about converting a super-cute pair of Betsey Johnson reading glasses into regular glasses with progressive lenses.
The staff at Contact and Specs were fantastic. They took out the thick reading lenses and gave me the thumbs up on pulling off these frames for everyday use. (I was concerned about how the glasses looked on my small-ish face.)
I needed to get my prescription updated and got an appointment right away with the doctor there. She gave a very thorough eye exam, and I was happy with her level of care.
The glasses were ready in a week, and I am very impressed with the quality of the lenses. Progressives can be difficult to get right, and I think these are the best I've ever had.
I definitely recommend Contacts and Specs! -
Review from Danielle B.
Chicago, IL
8/8/2011
It's not very often that I will buy a Groupon and then continue my business with the company, however I did with Contacts and Specs! They obviously knew Groupon's intentions for luring in the business! I have worked with 2 eye doctors there and they are both extremely nice and wanted to make sure I was fitted properly with the correct contacts. I have pretty poor vision and there aren't many contact lens brands that work for my astigmatism, but they were willing to find them.
Matt is one of the guys that helps measure you for glasses and fit you with some that suit your face. It's so nice and it was a pleasure having him as the customer service every time I came back to pick something up.
Unfortunately they don't take my vision insurance, but they told me how to submit it to my insurance company to be reimbursed. -
Review from Jennie T.
9/29/2010
The first time I came in here was over a year ago with a friend. We came to browse. Since then, I've been secretly in love with Contacts and Specs because of their selection. I think my friend won me over when she kept showing me her hip glasses.
I was excited when Groupon put out a deal with Contacts and Specs. I immediately jumped on that, not thinking how expensive the glasses are. I don't regret it though because I do have a HSA account which I have been consistently depositing into so I knew I could afford the nifty new glasses I bought from them. The glasses cost me around $825, total. Minus the $200 discount from Groupon and I paid around $625. WOW-EE. My beautiful purple and orange Orgreen frames are the most expensive (and beautiful) frames I have yet. I'm in love with them.
I found the staff amazingly helpful. They helped me pick out a few frames that would go well with my face shape. It also helped that my optometrist-to-be friend, Tresca T., was with me too. I loved it here. -
Review from Bruce B.
Chicago, IL
Updated - 12/21/2010
Okay, I just bought pair # 5 - and OUCH -this time I went a little overboard on price ... but these are very cool frame. Made by some new Belgian designer, fabricated in Japan, Iyoko Inyakes are part titanium, part wood, with inlays and spring hinges.
I love that I can count on C&S for the latest interesting eye wear, even if I have to wait two years between each pair ...1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/23/2009
Okay, I confess - I first went to C&S b/c they were near my condo and they excepted my eye insurance… Read more »
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Review from Cori B.
Chicago, IL
9/13/2010
The doc I saw was amazing...and helped my eyesight! I'd been over-diagnosed for many years! The staff is friendly and can help you navigate the best deal based on your insurance! The glasses there are very hip and well priced.
They e-mailed me when my glasses were ready and someone was ready to wait on me when I could come and pick my fancy new specs up!
I'll be back for my annual exam on time...and I look forward to the encounter! -
Review from Johnathan R.
Chicago, IL
Updated - 5/27/2010
This is an update to my previous review. A big thanks to Igor for catching wind of my less than par experience and doing everything in his power to make it better. Since then, the staff has always been helpful and welcoming.
I give C&S major props for recognizing that there was a bad experience and taking whatever action was needed to make it better. You don't see that too often. Because of their ability to accept and adjust their business due to my feedback, i've upgraded them to 4 stars. One for effort, and additional one for reaching out and taking care of me.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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1/14/2010
I decided to use Contacts and Specs simply because they are less than a block away from my apartment… Read more »
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Review from Rachel W.
Chicago, IL
8/30/2010
My optometrist is the one I've had growing up, out in the burbs, which means the frames there are most definitely suburbia-boring town. Having recently adopted a puppy, I basically live in my glasses as she goes out a lot, and mine were definitely dated.
A coworker recommended this place, citing unique frames, so I went there on Saturday and was definitely not disappointed! They carry very unique designers, and were friendly and helpful, but not pushy in the least. The glasses weren't cheap, but I absolutely love them, and they're different than anything I've ever worn. The woman took pity on my lack of vision insurance and threw in anti-glare for free...love.
I cannot wait for the call that says they're ready for pickup! -
Review from Stacy P.
Chicago, IL
6/22/2011
Makes me really wonder how this place treats their customers after I watched how they treated a vendor.
I overheard one of the staff speaking to a woman who represents a glasses line that the store didn't carry. The staff member was so rude and degrading to the woman and her products, speaking about it like it was garbage. I felt so bad for this lady - all she was trying to do was explain what her company was about, and this guy just shot down everything she was saying. She even tried to give him a brochure after all the negative things he said to her, and he told her, "save it, I won't be needing it." I didn't see the glasses she had, but the lady seemed really friendly and nice - she definitely didn't deserve that kind of treatment.
Sometimes retail people aren't aware of their surroundings and what customers hear them saying. But, hearing something like that, I wasn't about to give them my business. That guy told me his business feels it's okay to be snobbish and insulting. Sorry, but that's not okay with me. -
Review from Maria N.
Chicago, IL
9/17/2008
I like to tease my new husband that I only married him for his health insurance. What?? At least I'm not a goldigger!:)
One of the perks is eye insurance. I get a discount on frames every 2 years. I found this place on the list from the insurance company. It's called Contacts and Specs and that's exactly what I was in the market for. I actually just picked it for it's convenience. (it's 3 doors down from my apt) The eye exam was covered, I only had to pay for the contact exam. While I was waiting for the doctor, I asked what glasses would be covered by my insurance. The sales guy told me they didn't have enough floor space to house those glasses and pointed me in the direction of the back hall to a tall spinning case. No wonder those glasses were covered, they're from the 80's!
I had my exam and they gave me some contacts to try. They never told me I needed to come back in a week. I wear my glasses everyday, not my contacts, so I came back in a month. The original doctor wasn't there anymore and they lost my file. I had the follow up with the new doctor and felt like I was in trouble for not coming back in a week. She measured my eyes again for contacts since she didn't have my file for reference. She gave me new contacts to try and this time I made sure to come back the following week. A week later my original file was still "misplaced." I got my prescription and ordered the contacts online.
If you're in the market for glasses that are good enough to be in the front of the store then this is your place. They do have a nice (and pricey) selection. I did find a pair I liked, but after the service I had the last 2 times I decided to look elsewhere.
Oh, and I do really love my husband:) -
Review from Kristen S.
Chicago, IL
1/3/2011
After moving to Chicago, I needed to get my eyes checked because I was having trouble with my current prescription. I am glad I went to Contacts and Specs because the doctor FINALLY figured out exactly what was wrong with my eyes after goign through prescription after prescription for six years. The prescription she gave me works great and I finally can read without a headache.
Also, Contacts and Specs has a very nice variety of frames and employees to help you find the pair that suits your face and style. The only reason I don't give this place 5 stars is because of the prices of the frames. Expect to spend a lot of money for a pair of their frames!
Overall, it was worth the money. -
Review from Linds R.
Chicago, IL
11/13/2008
Embarrassing personal confessions continue with Contacts and Specs. I have pretty bad eyesight. I always lie when people ask me my prescription, because I told the truth once...and ever since seeing my friends' reaction, I have been asking Dr. Beute how close I am to being blind, and if my eyes continue getting worse at their present rate how long until I go blind, and would I be able to get surgery to fix it if I ever went blind, and what the definition of legal blindness is and how close I am to it. She is always patient with me, and has never looked at me like I was crazy (although, I wouldn't be able to tell because I'm probably going blind).
I bought a years' supply of lenses at my last visit and they give me free solution and cases. -
Review from Jeffrey C.
Chicago, IL
3/29/2010
I had glasses fitted and made at C&S - had actually chosen my Salt Optics frame at another store but couldn't get a discount there. C&S provided me with free anti-glare, but when I got the final product the progressive lenses seemed weak to me. The friendly optometrist took me to the back and we discovered that vision had deteriorated from last year's opthamology exam. They replaced my lenses at no charge.
They are very fun and friendly people (really into optics!) once a relationship is started. They'll flake out now and then but that's retail! -
Review from Michael K.
Chicago, IL
9/5/2011 Purchased a Yelp Deal
I choose this place over Spex's because there contact lens exam was cheaper and my experience with Spex's was not very good. I was completely satisfied with my experience and will recommend this place to anyone.
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Review from Julia M.
Chicago, IL
7/18/2010
I got new glasses here last summer...I had come in a few times to browse their incredibly unique frames but had never wanted to spend the money.
Fortunately, that day I found the perfect frames for me (great Anne et Valentin ones in some kind of special plastic) in the sale section, for half price. Still pricey but worth it. The optometrist saw me the same day, and I thought she was terrific and quite thorough. And I got the glasses in just a couple of days. I wear multifocals and these are just excellent -- I see better with them than I ever have. No desire to go back to contacts.
Yes, with all the add-ons they were quite expensive compared with what I had paid in the past, but they are easily the most stylish and best quality glasses, overall, that I've ever owned. Almost a year, and the lens have NO scratches on them, meaning the protective coating was really effective. Yes, I'd definitely go back. -
Review from Lesley B.
Chicago, IL
5/9/2009
I used to live about 2 blocks from Contacts and Specs - so when I had decided I needed new glasses (and they had to be funky and fun) I knew this was the place I was going to go. I didn't have eye insurance at the time, and was prepared to spend a fair bit of money for glasses (really, who likes the $99 frames at Lensecrafters). So, I went at the end of December when everyone who had flex spending was shopping - and was helped by Brian the manager- who had no problem telling me which frames did not look good (and getting excited about those that did). I spent probably close to 90 minutes looking at their myriad of frames and found two frames (1 on sale, 1 not on sale) that I simply adored. Of the two, my signature frames became a pair of red acrylic Alain Mikli's from France. GORGEOUS.
Well, I have since changed jobs and moved to Printers Row - but when I decided that I needed another eyeglass fix, I knew where I was going. This time, with insurance. Not only did they still have the incredible selection - but Brian was still there. And, though he didn't help me, he did pipe in with his thoughts as I tried on about 40 frames. I ended up with another French designed pair - this time J.F. Rey that is both acrylic and titanium - and the best part: even though they were designer, they were partially covered by my plan! In fact - even my beloved Alain Mikli frames (for I almost got another pair - this time in purple) would have been covered.
I have recommended this place to everyone who wants glasses that you can't find at a mall and impeccable service. I will be going back in another year for another new pair (or 2) -
Review from J Michael S.
Chicago, IL
11/13/2009
So after seven long years without going in for a new pair of eyeglasses, I bit the bullet and headed into Contact and Specs. I live above the place so the trip was all of 30 seconds but even after living in my place for four years, I had never made the effort to check the place out.
I have to say four years was way too long. . .
Not just for four eye'd types, most of the glasses can be made into sunglasses as well. The store itself was clean and modern and the staff extremely helpful. All three of the staff on the floor chimed in at different times to give their opinions of what I was trying on and all gave recommendations of their own.
It took me about 45 minutes to finally settle on a pair I think will stick with me for a while (even if I do come back for seconds). While the prices are a little steep, they are definitely worth it. The pieces they sell are not the generic kind you can find at your local LenseCrafters, they are the eyewear that will make you You.
I definitely recommend this for anyone looking for their next pair of eyeglasses, you won't be disappointed. -
Review from Maria S.
Chicago, IL
3/31/2011
Opthamologist was really really nice and thorough, however the sales associates weren't as spectacular... I think that because I'm fairly young, the person I was working with assumed that I didn't understand my own benefits. She was quoting prices for frames that were supposed to include my insurance discount. I looked over her math and pointed out that my insurance should have covered more than what she wrote down. She acted surprised and agreed with me. The whole situation gave me a weird feeling... I didn't end up getting my glasses there because I didn't want to be overcharged.
Long story short: I would potentially go back to get my vision rechecked, but if I ever go there to buy glasses I will be watching the sales people very closely. -
Review from Sara Z.
Chicago, IL
3/23/2010
I wear two custom made contact lenses because I have a bad astigmatism in both of my eyes. I've been to many doctors who have had trouble fitting me with the correct prescription. I had no problems with this doctor. She got the script right the first time around! I was amazed!
The doctor was awesome. The office is beautiful. And they have a great selection of frames.
The ONLY reason I can't give it 5 stars is because they don't accept Care Credit which I use to pay for my extremely expensive contact lenses. Other than that, they have everything you need and then some. -
Review from Amber N.
Chicago, IL
3/12/2010
I've used Contacts and Specs for the past three years. The doctors and staff are great. My only complaint is that they are a little pricey (even with good insurance), and their glasses selection are limited- they have very unique styles, although I needed something slightly more traditional which seemed a little harder to find. Regardless, the staff was amazing and attentive, and gave their honest input regarding what styles fit my face and my needs.
A week after buying my last pair of glasses, I hated everything about them. The fit, the look, style, comfort, etc. I called them to see if I was able to exchange them (although did not expect it because my lenses were cut for these frames specifically), but the staff had no hesitations and were amazingly accommodating in exchanging them for something I would be happy with. I'm blown away at their customer service and willingness to make their customers happy! -
Review from Sam Y.
New York, NY
12/28/2010
This place has a really nice selection of cool frames BUT...
The prices are borderline extortion. You would think they are selling dinosaur eggs or something! I ordered some glasses from them online and lucky for me they were on backorder for a long time so I cancelled the order...the next day I found the same pair on a different site for $175 LESS.
My advice would be to shop at contacts and specs for the frame you want and then buy it somewhere else! -
Review from Jen W.
Chicago, IL
1/25/2011
I had an eye exam and ordered glasses. The optometrist is very professional and nice. There is a wide selection of frames. My problem is with the billing. I'm a little hesitant to say this because I believe the owner was the one to help me. He did not go over the billing at all. Right before the calculation, he had asked another employee for the price of the thinner lenses and the price on the bill was $20 higher per lens. My eyeglasses ended up getting lost in the mail (or so that's what they said) and I did not receive them until a month later.
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Review from molly c.
Chicago, IL
5/12/2011
I can't speak to the major services offered by Contacts and Specs (yet!), but I'm giving their Customer Service skills 5 GIANT stars. I popped in here in the hopes of getting my sunglasses repaired (after the guy across the street at New Days Optical barked at me that he wouldn't repair glasses that hadn't been purchased in his store, and then turned his back and made a phone call before I could even explain that I just needed a new screw and would pay for it)....anyway, the pleasant associate at Contacts and Specs was more than happy to help me, did so very quickly, and wouldn't even hear of letting me pay for so simple a repair. He even cleaned them without my even asking. You'd better believe that next time I need new frames or an eye exam, I'll be coming back here.
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Review from Amaliya L.
Chicago, IL
7/10/2008
I have a few secrets that only very close friends know about. I am literally blind as a bat. I am so blind that if I were not wearing my contacts or eyeglasses...I could not tell you what color your eyes are.
One of my other little known secrets is that I was a major fashion don't in the 80's. I purchased the most hideous glasses in the 80's and they were bright red and coke bottle thick. The lenses were so thick and heavy that they would always fall out of the rim. My eyesight was so bad, that I assumed that all glasses in my prescription only came in that thickness, therefore I dealt with my ugliness and never shopped for new ones. I have no idea how the hell I had a boyfriend back then. I would not have dated me.
A few years ago, I was fortunate to have vision insurance through my husband. I needed a new exam, and new contacts. I found Contacts & Specs through my providers website. It was only a 5 minute walk from my work.
Hot Damn! I had no idea how hip and upscale an eyeglass store could be. It's gorgeous! I'm used to the boring shops with boring frames, the hideous lighting and limited selection. And I had no idea that frames could cost what they did...after watching too many commercials, I was expecting the 2 for $99 deal. Ha! Not in my prescription!
The staff at Contacts and Specs were extremely helpful. I always gravitate towards things that are huge. They spent a lot of time studying my face, asking questions, and chose each frame that would be suitable for my face with care. I was sold. Especially after I found out that I didn't have to wear coke bottle glasses anymore! I chose a pair of hand painted Italian frames, with all the trimmings..non reflective glare, low index lenses, etc. I spent about $800 after my insurance discount on the exams, contacts and glasses. It was more than I had anticipated on spending, but I am hella happy.
As a side note, it did take almost 2 weeks for my glasses to arrive. Since I don't usually wear them, I was okay with it. -
Review from Aesha W.
Chicago, IL
2/8/2008
The staff here are really helpful and attentive, which I appreciated. It's a small shop with funky glasses styles; they don't have a huge selection, but they have a varied selection and high-end brands (Coach, Tiffany, etc). They have prescription as well as sunglasses, of course.
I don't know that I would purchase my glasses here... they have a lot of trendy styles, but not as many "classic" styles... and their selection is extremely expensive, IMO (my friend's glasses cost over $700, and that was with several insurance discounts - regular price it would be over $1,000, and I didn't know glasses could cost that much). If I could afford it, I'd definately take a look here for some interesting specs!
EDIT:
I lowered this business a star... oddly enough, after I became a customer myself. Dr. Buete is quite helpful and friendly, and the sales associates are as well. My problem is with another aspect of their customer service.
A friend broke my glasses, without which I am extremely nearsighted; he'd used C&S and said to go there for everything. I purchased my eye exam, as well as two sets of Alain Mikli glasses (one pair of sunglasses and one of eyeglasses, each close to $600), as well as a sunglass clip for the new eyeglasses. When I left the store, I was told by the saleswoman that it would be about a week, no more than a week and a half.
Today it has been 11 days since I purchased the glasses; when I called to inquire about them, she said that she would call me back with information on when they'd be ready. When my friend purchased his glasses here, he was given the same excuse. If it had happened once, that's just unfortunate; for it to happen with two different people, several months apart, indicates a pattern of service. Whether it's a problem on their end or a supplier's end, they know that's a problem and yet they continue to provide false information to customers. I'm also annoyed by the fact that I had to call *them* for the information, instead of receiving a call from them to let me know that my glasses would take twice as long as quoted. She didn't offer to put a rush on it or anything; when I called late afternoon on a Monday to learn the status of the order, she called back to say that they would be mailed on Thursday and arrive Friday or the following Monday.
With all this, I probably won't bother to purchase from them again, and probably wouldn't recommend them to a friend. It's far too much of a hassle; I can't help but wonder if, had I been in more of an emergency and my order was contingent upon a quick turnaround time, they would have lied about the timetable to get me to purchase. I cannot help but think that, if someone purchases over $1700 worth of eyewear and services, they should be a little more diligent with their customer service. -
Review from Ren H.
Chicago, IL
8/15/2005
They always have good deals on sunglasses here and they've got name brand stuff! You've gotta catch them on a day they have a sale or else the glasses may be a little costly!
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Review from Monster M.
San Francisco, CA
6/13/2008
I purchased my Alain Mikli eyeglasses from their website (http://contactsandspec...), so this review reflects my online experience with them, not the physical location. Brian from Contacts and Specs was extremely courteous in responding (quite expeditiously, in fact) to my email inquiries. Like other reviewers have noted, their selection is high-end/designer, so expect high-end pricing. I had planned on just buying the frames, but when their quote for the kind of prescription lenses I wanted turned out to be $100 less than my optical shop's quote, I had Contacts and Specs complete the entire order. I received my eyeglasses in about the same time I would've waited had I gone through my optical shop (~7-10 business days). The website provides multi-angle images and clear descriptions of each item. I would definitely purchase from Contacts and Specs, again.
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Review from Michael K.
Chicago, IL
7/12/2010
I've been to C&S several times now, and it's always the first place I go to when I'm in need of an exam or new frames. In my last visit, I needed new frames following an exam and unfortunately I can't remember the name of the girl who helped me, but she went above and beyond to help me find the perfect frame which is a big deal to me since I'm highly indecisive. Thanks to her I get compliments on them every single day. I'm definitely looking forward to my next visit!
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Review from Ermelinda C.
Chicago, IL
5/28/2010
Went in two weeks ago, after getting their groupon. Nice and friendly optometrist. AMAZING frame selection - will go back as soon as I have some money to splurge on THE glasses to have! I was not impressed with the customer service initially, however, Igor, the owner, contacted me explaining the situation - there is someone who actually cares about improving his business and wants to know the customer's opinion.
Comment from Igor P. of Contacts and Specs 6/7/2010
Hi Ermelinda, I want to apologize for not taking care of… More » -
Review from Jasmine J.
Los Angeles, CA
5/3/2010
I loved the variety of frames Contacts and Specs had to offer! The sales woman who helped me was also really nice. One of the frames she showed me is definitely at the top of my list. However, they lost a star with me for being a bit overpriced. I later found a couple of frames that I was considering elsewhere for over $100 less.
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Review from jeff m.
Chicago, IL
5/27/2008
I have been into this location a couple of times just to look around. Everyone there has been pretty helpful, especially since I didn't even buy anything. Sadly, I couldn't afford to buy what I liked. I found a pair of Chrome Hearts sunglasses that I thought worked really well for me, but was not going to pay around 1000 for them (without a prescription in them). Don't get me wrong, they do have some that are alot less than that and I may be back in sometime to try on more.
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Review from McKenzie C.
Cook, IL
3/10/2010
Igor Presman, and his team at Contacts and Specs, run the finest eye glass salon in the city. I say salon, not shop, because of the care in which they dispense glasses, exams and adjustments. I have the best script I have had in years, based on the exam done by Contacts and Specs. For me, the fit of the glasses is as important as the glasses themselves. Contacts and Specs has patiently adjusted my glasses for multiple iterations, until I was completely satisfied with the fit and vision. The curve, the tilt, the wrap were all considered. The assortment of glasses is of the finest materials and cutting edge styles. This curated selection has compelled me to buy six pairs in the last year alone! I can not recommend Contacts and Specs more highly.
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Review from doejo w.
Chicago, IL
4/5/2010
The selection and people are top of the line. Igor runs a great shop, he really knows how to work with people and problem solve such an important part of your life. The doctor was amazing, she has so much life and positive vibes. I really had a comfortable time, even laughed a lot. Super excited about picking up my new specs! Thanks guys :)
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Review from Olivia L.
Chicago, IL
8/12/2006
Wandered in here on a random day and was very plesantly suprised, especially since I'm in the market for new, "artsier" glasses. And that said, artsier glasses are certainly what Contacts and Specs specialize in. Coming from small town illinois/suburbia, my experience with glases shops has mostly been relegated to Lenscrafters-esque places, and well, what a young twenty-something wants is drastically different than what a small town middle-aged woman is looking for (in my experience). They have all sorts of glasses with really interesting colours, shapes, styles that I have never seen before. Glasses are a bit pricier, but not too much worse than the designer glasses at the big chains. They also had a large sale section when I went, where all glasses were 50% off. Staff was quite nice, and also rather non-obtrusive, which really encouraged me to try on all the glasses I wanted, instead of at other stores where you feel like you are almost being annoying by wanting to try on more than one pair. I'll probably get my glasses here!
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Review from Curt S.
Chicago, IL
10/20/2008
I went here for an eye appointment. The girl at the front desk was rude and snobby. The frames are overpriced and overall everyone in there had an attitude problem. There is no reason that anyone should have to go to the eye doctor and have people treat you poorly. Stay away!
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Review from elena o.
Chicago, IL
8/7/2007
It's definitely pricier than LensCrafters - but if you think the glasses at LensCrafters are cool and funky, this really isn't the place for you. The optometrists are friendly and don't poke your eyes too much, but the real reason to go here is the amazing selection of glasses from independent and high-concept designers and the amazing floor staff. Most of the glasses are from Europe and Japan - buy a pair of frames here and you know you won't ever see them on anyone else. The people who work here are great at evaluating a customer's personal style (and face type) to find a pair of frames that looks good, stands out, suits your face, your job & your wardrobe - and they don't mind taking as much time as you need. I've bought 4 pairs of glasses here in 6 years and I've never been disappointed. And if that weren't enough, there's a cupcake store around the corner.
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Review from Jacob R.
Chicago, IL
12/2/2008
Knowledgeable doctor, staff and great glasses selection. I've been to plenty of places around town and finally found a huge/updated selection.
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Review from Justin C.
Chicago, IL
10/20/2008
overall service was good though watch out for the rapeage on the back end. by rapeage i mean fraudulent overcharging of your insurance company. i recently tried to reclaim my 125$ allowance allotted by my vision plan towards online contacts which I ordered. i was denied and notified that this grand establishment had already lined their pockets with the maximum allowance which was never communicated or verified. upon contacting the unapologetic receptionist i was notified that the "contact fitting charge" had been deducted at a whopping $79. im sorry but i have NEVER in my life paid this much for a contact fitting above and beyond their exorbitant exam pricing. that said, $79 did not account for the FULL $125 that was charged to my insurance. the $46 extra dollars conveniently were claimed unbeknownst to me, and what a convenient "mistakenly charged" overage, as the additional amount was right in line with the the maximum claim allowed. honest mistake, i think not. SHADY and OVERPRICED. please go elsewhere.
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Review from P S.
Chicago, IL
3/15/2010
My reviews are mixed. It's a big, bright fancy store, and they have a really nice selection of new and fashionable frames. They ARE expensive however. The sale people offered less than desirable service. I can and could afford to pay for my glasses ($800), but I'm not a fancy dresser. No one wanted to help me. You'd think they were the ones paying me with the rude, snotty service that I received. Not until I asked repeatedly for help and flashed my credit card did anyone take an interest in me. I love my glasses, but the service gets zeros stars. And let me break the price down further. My gorgeous frames were $439, but they kept adding on additional services - thin light lenses, anti glare, anti scratch, transition lens, anti-whatever and the total price ended up at $800. So be wary the sales pitch. Even when I came to pick up my glasses they weren't any better - they aren't doing anything, wandering around, dusting, straightening out the display but they could not be bothered to give me the glasses that I already paid for. At least I got a cheap cleaning cloth "free" with my purchase. Don't think I'd go back due to the rude service.
