If you do have to get ones from a script, and you find frames that you like - you can usually buy those frames for a fraction of the cost of the optician's price on places like eBay. You'll need a good magnification level to see it, but the model and size is usually engraved into one of the arms. That way, if you need to replace them, you have extras. The online places are good if you have a very basic script. If you have anything odd like strange astigmatism correction, they won't work for you. Wayfarer-style glasses that are popular now make you look like a section 8 kid from the 80s. Almost all frames are made by one company, no matter the name on them. Wholesale price on frames is a few dollars. Many lenses (in a given area) are made by a single company as well, they just send them off for manufacture. Check around, you're getting the same materials and people no matter the price. Always make sure that your optician will re-make the lenses if they don't work, especially if this is your first pair. If you don't have eye insurance, VSP is usually fairly reasonable.