FAQs

"Test Description FAQ page"

Products and services
Custom frames
Exams and prescriptions
Styling sessions
Purchases and refunds

What types of eyewear do you sell? For what clientele?

We specialize in selling ready-to-wear or custom-made glasses, designed for those who appreciate distinctive frames. Our local and international creations highlight unique designs and high-quality materials, offering our clients a diverse selection of durable frames that combine style and comfort. Whether you're a fashion enthusiast, a visual arts lover, or simply looking for a model to enhance your appearance, we have glasses for all tastes and budgets.

What brands of eyewear are sold at BAR À LUNETTES Marie-Sophie Dion?

At BAR À LUNETTES by Marie-Sophie Dion, we proudly offer a selection of rare glasses sourced from around the world. In addition to our own Marie-Sophie Dion collection, we feature renowned brands such as Blake Kuwahara, Théo, Anne & Valentin, and many more. Each frame we offer has been carefully selected for its distinctive design, high-quality craftsmanship, and ability to meet the diverse needs and tastes of our local clientele. With us, you will find a wide range of glasses that accompany you in all your activities, whether sporty, chic, or casual.

What materials are the frames made of?

The frames are made from a variety of materials, depending on their style, use, and design. Here are some of the most popular materials in the drawers of BAR À LUNETTES:

  1. Acetate: A durable plastic material with rich colors, often used for high-end eyewear frames. This is the material used for the creation of the Quebec-based Marie-Sophie Dion collection.
  2. Metal: Stainless steel and aluminum offer lightness and strength for the most active among us.

3. Titanium: A high-end metal material that is lightweight, hypoallergenic, and highly resistant to corrosion.

What is the difference between acetate eyeglasses and less expensive molded plastic ones?

Acetate and molded plastic glasses mainly differ in their aesthetic appeal and long-term durability. Cellulose acetate sheets (a blend of resin and cotton) are cut with CNC machine tools and offer a variety of colors and patterns in the mass. The depth effects and rich colors make them the preferred choice for Marie-Sophie Dion's frame creations.

On the other hand, molded plastic glasses are made from a less expensive plastic molding process and offer less variety in terms of angling and finishing. In summary, acetate glasses are often considered more stable, durable, and adjustable, offering greater aesthetic diversity, while molded plastic glasses can be a more economical option but with fewer design details and adjustment possibilities.

Do you have options for people sensitive to certain materials?

Of course! We understand that some people may be sensitive to certain materials, such as nickel. That’s why we offer a range of frames made from hypoallergenic and high-quality materials. These glasses are designed to provide optimal comfort without compromising on style or durability. Whether you have sensitivities to metals or plastics, we have options available to meet your specific needs.

Do you offer repairs and adjustments?

Absolutely! We are happy to offer repair and adjustment services for your glasses purchased at any of the 6 Bar à lunettes by Marie-Sophie Dion. We understand the importance of having comfortable and well-fitted frames, which is why we are here to help you keep them in perfect condition. We often offer these services free of charge and with pleasure, but please note that in some cases where parts need to be replaced or more significant repairs are required, fees may apply.

What types of lenses do you offer for prescription glasses?

We offer a variety of lens types to meet different visual needs:

  • Single Vision Lenses: These are standard prescription lenses that correct either distance or near vision, but not both at the same time. They are often used to correct myopia (difficulty seeing far away), hypermetropia (eyes that do not converge enough and get tired easily), or astigmatism.
  • Progressive Lenses: Also known as multifocal lenses, these lenses offer correction for distance, near, and intermediate vision, eliminating the need for multiple pairs of glasses. They are often used to treat presbyopia, a condition that affects near vision with age.
  • Degressive Lenses: These lenses are similar to progressive lenses but are specifically designed for activities requiring prolonged near vision, such as reading or using electronic devices. They offer a wider near correction zone than standard progressive lenses and are ideal for people who work with laptops.
  • Anti-Fatigue Lenses: This option can precede the use of progressive lenses for individuals who have difficulty reading without feeling pressure and eye fatigue.
  • Treatments for Driving: These treatments are designed to enhance vision while driving, reducing glare and increasing visual clarity in low light or bright light conditions.
  • Thinned Lenses: These aspheric lenses with a refractive index of 1.6, 1.67, or 1.74 are recommended for stronger prescriptions. Thinned lenses are lighter and thinner than standard lenses, offering improved aesthetics and better visual comfort, especially for people with very high prescriptions.
  • Photochromic Lenses: These lenses, also known as photochromic, Transition, or Sensity lenses, automatically adjust to ambient light. They darken in response to UV light exposure, offering integrated sun protection, and become clear indoors. They do not tint in response to light but to UV rays, remaining light inside a car. A more reactive version to visible light exists for those who prefer a darker lens outdoors and a slightly tinted filter indoors and in the car.
  • Anti-Reflective and Scratch-Resistant Treatments: These treatments improve vision quality by reducing unwanted reflections on the lens surface, thus enhancing visual comfort, and increasing lens durability by making them more resistant to scratches.
  • Polarized Lenses: Polarized lenses feature a special filter that reduces reflected light by blocking it, thus reducing annoying glare and improving contrast and visual clarity. They are particularly useful for outdoor activities as they reduce glare caused by reflective surfaces such as water and snow.
  • Gradient Lenses: These lenses offer a smooth transition from dark to light color, creating a subtle or pronounced gradient effect across the lenses. They are often chosen for aesthetic reasons but also provide functional benefits by reducing excessive brightness in certain situations while offering clear vision. Many people appreciate them for shopping days because they can be worn indoors more easily without having to remove the glasses and risk losing them.

Do you offer polarized sunglasses?

Yes, we offer a selection of polarized (or polarizing) sunglasses in both ready-to-wear and custom versions. Polarized sunglasses are designed with special lenses that reduce some of the annoying reflections caused by light reflecting off smooth horizontal surfaces, making them an ideal choice for driving, outdoor activities, and any high-light intensity situations.

Do you sell contact lenses?

Yes, we do sell contact lenses. Our range includes a variety of renowned brands such as CooperVision, Alcon, Bausch & Lomb, and Johnson & Johnson. We partner with these major laboratories to meet all our customers' needs. If you are interested in purchasing contact lenses, please feel free to contact us to place your order.

Do you offer eye exams at all your locations?

We offer optometric eye exams at some of our locations. To check if your location offers this service, you can visit our website. On the "Appointment" page, you can select the branch of your choice and see the available options, including "Eyewear Consultation" or "Optometric Exam," if this service is offered. However, if you have any doubts, do not hesitate to call us or email us at info@baralunettes.com and we will be happy to provide you with more information.

What materials do you use to create custom glasses?

For custom glasses, we mainly use cellulose acetate. It is a high-end plastic material made from cotton, offering both durability and flexibility, making it ideal for crafting custom frames.

Can I pay for my glasses in instalments?

We understand that purchasing glasses can be a significant financial investment, which is why we strive to offer a wide range of frames at various prices to suit different budgets. You can pay for your purchase in instalments, provided the final payment is made before the delivery of your glasses.

How long does it take to process a refund?

We do not provide refunds on our sales. However, we offer the possibility to exchange products purchased within 7 days of their delivery or issue a credit note with no expiration date.

What is the difference between custom-made frames and ready-to-wear frames?

A custom frame is specially designed to perfectly fit the customer's measurements and preferences. This means it is made according to each individual's precise specifications, ensuring optimal comfort and precise aesthetics. In contrast, a ready-to-wear frame is a standard frame available in different colors and styles but is not individually made for each customer.

What are BAR À LUNETTES Marie-Sophie Dion custom frames?

Marie-Sophie Dion's custom frames are unique and high-end creations that reflect the expertise of this optician with 32 years of experience in the field. Each frame is meticulously crafted with high-quality materials. The designs and colors are constantly updated to reflect current trends, ensuring that each frame is both timeless and modern.

Are the custom frames created here in Quebec?

Yes, absolutely! The custom frames from the MSD collection are designed and created here in Quebec, specifically in the Marie-Sophie Dion workshop in Saint-Lambert. This is where each frame is crafted with special attention to every detail, ensuring exceptional quality and complete satisfaction for our customers.

Are bespoke glasses more expensive than ready-to-wear glasses?

Yes, in general, custom-made glasses are more expensive than ready-to-wear glasses because they result from unique design and individual production. This is because they are specifically made to fit each client's individual needs, requiring much more labor and time. In contrast, ready-to-wear glasses are produced in large quantities and are therefore more economical to manufacture. However, it is important to note that their price can vary depending on different factors such as the material and specific features of each frame.

How is the custom glasses creation process carried out?

The custom glasses creation process begins with scheduling an appointment for a styling consultation, which can be done at one of our locations or online. During this consultation, we offer several frames and a sketch that will serve as a starting point to create a unique model for you. Together, we discuss your preferences in terms of color and style of the branches. Next, we send you an email with a drawing representing the proposed design, overlaid on a photo of your face. Once you approve the drawing, the frame goes into production in our workshop in Saint-Lambert. This entire process takes about a month.

How long does it take to create a pair of custom glasses?

Generally, creating a pair of custom glasses takes about two weeks once all the preliminary steps are completed. However, the entire process, including model selection, measurements, approval of the custom design, manufacturing, and final adjustments, can take up to a month. It is important to allow sufficient time to ensure that your custom glasses fully meet your needs and specifications.

Can I customize every aspect of my glasses?

When considering customizing the aspects of your glasses, it is important to note that some details must be discussed and validated with our teams. We offer a range of customization possibilities to meet your specific needs and preferences. However, some aspects, such as material selection and branch shape, must be chosen from the available options. Regarding color, our customers are invited to choose from the 35 shades we already work with, ensuring their availability.

How do you ensure that the glasses fit my face perfectly?

To ensure a perfect fit for your face, we use a meticulous manual approach and specialized tools. First, we use a precise measuring tool to assess the width and shape of your nose. This step is crucial as this is where all the weight of the glasses rests, so we ensure that the frame is comfortable and well-fitted in this area. Next, we measure the width of your head to ensure that the branches do not squeeze excessively at the temples or are too far apart, ensuring a comfortable fit. We can also use an existing frame model as a starting point and make personalized modifications according to your needs. For example, we adjust the height of the frame to avoid any uncomfortable contact with your cheeks or ensure that your eyebrows are not inside the frame's circles.

Can I request modifications after the creation?

We can always discuss modifications after the creation of your custom glasses, but the feasibility will depend on the types of changes you wish to make. Generally, once the glasses are made according to your specifications and following your approval of the design, it can be difficult to modify them without compromising their structural integrity or fit. However, minor adjustments, such as changes to the arms and their positioning, may be possible.

What is the warranty on custom glasses?

The warranty on our custom glasses is 1 year and covers manufacturing defects. Beyond this warranty period, if other issues arise with your glasses, we are committed to finding an appropriate solution. As the manufacturer of your custom glasses, we are dedicated to ensuring your satisfaction and will work with you to resolve any problems that may occur.

What types of optometry appointments do you offer?

We offer a range of optometry appointments to meet our clients' visual needs. Here are some of the types of appointments we offer:

  1. Routine Eye Exam: This is the most common type of appointment, generally recommended every one to two years and more frequently for certain adult and pediatric patients. During this exam, an optometrist assesses the general health of your eyes, checks your visual acuity, evaluates your corrective prescription if needed, and detects any vision or eye health issues.
  2. Pediatric Eye Exam: These appointments are specially designed for young children to detect any vision problems from an early age. The optometrist assesses the child's eye health and vision and checks if they need glasses, even if they do not know their alphabet.
  3. Contact Lens Exam: For contact lens wearers, regular appointments are necessary to assess the health of their cornea and check the positioning and accuracy of the lens power.

Do you offer emergency services for vision problems?

The optometrists at Bars à lunettes accept patients who require emergency treatment for a complete eye exam only but do not treat wounds, foreign bodies, or infections that require medical follow-up.

What are the fees for an optometry eye exam?

The fees for an optometry eye exam vary depending on the patient's age and the tests performed. Here is the current fee schedule:

  1. For those under 18 and over 65, the eye exam is covered by health insurance upon presentation of the health insurance card.
  2. For adults aged 18 to 64, the exam fees are as follows:
  • $120 for a general optometric exam
  • $140 for an exam including OCT retinal imaging

What should I bring to my eye exam?

For your eye exam, it is essential to bring certain items for an accurate evaluation. Here is what you should consider bringing:

  1. If available, your last optometric prescription: Not mandatory, but it will help the optometrist understand your visual history.
  2. Your current pairs of glasses: This will help understand your current visual needs and observe the strength of your lenses.
  3. Your health insurance card: If you are under 18 or over 65, your health insurance card will be necessary.
  4. Your contact lens parameters: If you wear contact lenses, bring the information regarding the brand, power, curvature, and diameter of your current lenses.
  5. Any other useful documents: Any relevant medical documents concerning your vision, such as previous exam results or medical reports, can also be useful for the evaluation.

How long does an eye exam usually take?

Generally, an eye exam lasts 30 to 45 minutes, including a question period. This allows for a thorough examination and the issuance of a prescription if needed.

Can I get a prescription for glasses or contact lenses from you?

Yes, you can obtain a prescription for glasses or contact lenses with us. You will receive a prescription issued by the optometrist on the spot, based on your specific needs.

Can I come to BAR À LUNETTES Marie-Sophie Dion with a prescription from another eyewear store?

Yes, of course! You can come to BAR À LUNETTES by Marie-Sophie Dion with a prescription from an optometrist or ophthalmologist. We will be happy to assist you and can use this prescription to provide you with glasses or contact lenses.

How can I renew an existing prescription?

To renew an existing prescription, you have several options:

  1. Make an appointment directly online at your convenience: You can select a date and time slot that suits you and book your appointment in a few clicks.
  2. Contact us by email or phone with the branch of your choice: We can either renew it or invite you to schedule an in-store appointment.
  3. Visit us to make an appointment: If you prefer an in-person approach, you can go directly to the branch and make an appointment on-site.

Can I come to the store for a styling session, or do I need to make an appointment?

It is preferable to make an appointment for an eyewear styling session. We want to ensure we provide you with enough time to fully address your needs and questions. By making an appointment, we can offer you personalized and quality service.

How can I make an appointment for a styling session or an optometry consultation?

To make an appointment for a styling session or an optometry consultation, you have two simple options.

The first option is to call us directly so we can arrange an appointment together according to your availability, either in-store or via video conference.

Alternatively, you can also book online by following these steps:

  1. Click on the "Appointment" button located at the top right of our homepage or on the "Stores" tab at the top of the page.
  2. Choose the branch that suits you best.
  3. From there, you will have the option to schedule your appointment for a styling session and/or an optometry consultation, depending on the services offered by the branch.

We look forward to welcoming you and meeting your styling or vision care needs.

Are there any fees associated with an eyewear styling session?

No, there are no fees associated with an eyewear styling session at our store. We offer our expertise for free to help you find the best pair of glasses that match your style, needs, and personality.

Do you offer eyewear styling consultations via video conference?

Yes, we do offer eyewear styling consultations via video conference. You can easily make an appointment for this option by visiting our website. Simply select the branch of your choice and choose the time that suits you best. We will be delighted to offer our expertise remotely to help you find the perfect pair of glasses.

How long does a styling session last?

The duration of a styling session varies depending on your needs. Generally, it lasts about 1 hour for choosing a pair of glasses. However, if you are considering purchasing multiple pairs, the session can extend to about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on each case. We always allocate enough time to ensure you find the perfect glasses that meet all your expectations.

Will the styling session help me determine which style of glasses suits me best?

Absolutely! During your styling session, we will take the time to analyze your face and the desired style based on your preferences to determine which frames suit you best. We will guide you through our selection of frames considering 15 specific criteria for your face. Read our article here. https://baralunettes.com/en/blogs/news/trouver-la-monture-parfaite-en-15-points

During the styling session, will I receive recommendations on which glasses are best suited for round, square, elongated, or oval faces?

During the styling session, we will consider much more than just the shape of your face! We will examine important parameters such as the shape of your eyebrows, the width of your face, the width of your nose, and even the contour of your cheekbones! All these elements contribute to determining which frames will be best suited to your physiognomy and specific needs. Our goal is to provide personalized recommendations that highlight your face while ensuring visual comfort.

What measurements, tests, or exams are conducted during an eyewear styling session?

During an eyewear styling session, several measurements, tests, and exams are conducted to ensure a perfect fit for the glasses and meet all needs:

  1. Facial Feature Evaluation: The professional examines the width of the face, nose structure, eyebrow shape, and other facial characteristics to determine which frames will best suit you. This ensures a comfortable and aesthetic fit.
  2. Frame Trial: The client tries on different proposed frames to choose those that best match their style, personality, and tastes.
  3. Frame Adjustment: Once the frame is chosen, the optician makes adjustments to ensure it fits perfectly. This may include adjusting the nose pads, the curvature of the arms, and other modifications to ensure a comfortable and stable fit.
  4. Inter-pupillary Distance Measurement: This measurement is taken to determine the distance between the pupils. It ensures that the corrective lenses are correctly centered in the frames, which is essential for clear and precise vision.

Do you offer online glasses purchases, or only in-store frame purchases?

Our frames are available in our branches but can be shipped worldwide. We offer video conference consulting services to complete the purchase of our frames online. Our in-store teams will be happy to help you find the perfect frame to meet your needs. Feel free to make an appointment to speak with an optician via WhatsApp or at one of our branches.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept debit and credit card payments (except American Express) and Canadian dollar payments. These payment methods are accepted at all our branches to make your shopping experience as convenient as possible. For purchases made outside of Canada, payment is made via a secure PayPal transaction.

Do you offer BAR À LUNETTES by Marie-Sophie Dion gift cards?

Yes, we offer gift cards for BAR À LUNETTES by Marie-Sophie Dion. This is an excellent option if you wish to give your loved ones the opportunity to choose their own glasses from our selection of stylish and high-quality frames. Gift cards are available at all our branches or by mail through phone payment.

If I change my mind, can I modify or cancel my order after placing it?

Once your order is placed, if the laboratory has already started production, we cannot guarantee the possibility of modifying or canceling it. Our teams strive to process orders quickly and efficiently, which means that once an order is confirmed, it is generally sent for processing without the possibility of later modification. However, if you have any concerns or questions about an order you have placed, we encourage you to contact us.

How can I track the progress of my glasses order from payment to receipt?

Once the payment is made, we immediately send your lens order to our laboratory. The manufacturing process takes about 10 days, after which your glasses will be ready for pickup in the store.

If you wish to receive updates on the progress of your order during this period, please feel free to contact us by email or phone. Our team will be happy to provide you with updates on the status of your order and answer any questions you may have.

We will also send you an email or call you, according to your preference, as soon as your glasses are ready for pickup, so you can come and collect them as soon as possible. We strive to offer a transparent and responsive service throughout the process, ensuring you are fully informed and satisfied with your purchase experience.

Do I need to pick up my glasses in-store once the order is ready and has arrived?

Once your order is ready and has arrived in the store, we can ship it to you by mail or courier, or you can pick it up in person. This allows us to ensure that your glasses fit perfectly by making any necessary final adjustments on-site. Additionally, coming to the store gives you the opportunity to ask questions and receive personalized advice on the care and use of your new glasses before wearing them.

What is your return policy?

We do not offer refunds for purchases but instead provide exchanges or credits, and we are committed to finding a satisfactory solution for you. If you encounter an issue with a product you purchased at one of our branches, we encourage you to contact us within a week of receiving your glasses. We will be happy to discuss the problem with you and work together to find the best possible solution.

What happens if I receive a damaged product, the glasses are poorly fitted, or there is a defect in the lenses or frame?

If you believe you have received a damaged product, if the glasses are poorly fitted, or if there is a defect in the lenses or frame, we invite you to contact us promptly so we can resolve the issue. We are here to ensure your satisfaction, and our in-store team will be happy to help you find an appropriate solution, whether it involves properly adjusting the glasses or replacing the lenses or frame if the issue is due to a manufacturing defect.

It is important to note that adjustments to the glasses are free and offered indefinitely, so if you need modifications to ensure a comfortable fit, our team will be there to help you at any time. Additionally, our frames and lenses are generally covered by warranties against manufacturing defects, so if you encounter such issues, we will be happy to resolve them within the limits of these warranties.