Oxford Eyes brings style, and expertise, to Ivanhoe Row with their fabulous selection of eyewear.
Winner: Best Place to Buy Glasses | Oxford Eyes
Orlando’s eyewear scene has no shortage of options, Oxford Eyes wins big as the Best Place to Buy Glasses in the 2026 Best of ORL awards, recognizing the Ivanhoe Village boutique for its distinctive approach to eyewear, personalized service and commitment to independent brands.
Founded in 2018 by Verbelee Nielsen-Swanson, Oxford Eyes has built a reputation as more than just an optical shop. The locally owned business was created around the belief that eyewear should be an extension of a person’s style and personality rather than simply a medical necessity. That philosophy has resonated with customers throughout Central Florida and helped establish the boutique as a recurring favorite among Orlando magazine readers.
Located in the heart of Ivanhoe Village, Oxford Eyes specializes in curated collections from independent eyewear designers around the world. The shop offers a selection that ranges from classic and understated frames to bold, artistic styles that are difficult to find in traditional optical chains. Brands carried by the boutique include LINDBERG, Anne et Valentin, FACE A FACE, Tom Ford, Porsche Design, Maui Jim and many others.
Oxford Eyes brings style, and expertise, to Ivanhoe Row with their fabulous selection of eyewear.
The store’s appeal extends beyond its frame selection. Oxford Eyes has positioned itself as a concierge-style eyewear destination, pairing clients with licensed opticians who provide one-on-one styling consultations and guidance on lens technology, fit and comfort. The team collectively brings more than 80 years of optical industry experience, helping customers navigate everything from prescription lenses and sunglasses to children’s eyewear and specialty sports frames.
A state-of-the-art onsite finishing lab allows many adjustments, repairs and lens services to be completed quickly, enhancing the customer experience and reducing wait times. The boutique also offers comprehensive eye health exams, contact lenses and customized lens options tailored to individual lifestyles and visual needs.
Community engagement has also been a hallmark of the business. Oxford Eyes regularly supports local nonprofit organizations and environmental initiatives, while maintaining strong ties to Orlando’s arts and cultural community. The company emphasizes sustainability through practices such as paperless transactions, recycling and charitable donations of used eyewear.
The 2026 Best of ORL victory adds another accolade to Oxford Eyes’ growing list of honors. The boutique has been recognized repeatedly in Orlando magazine’s annual readers’ poll, reflecting a loyal customer base and a reputation for exceptional service.
For locals seeking eyewear that blends fashion, craftsmanship and expert care, Oxford Eyes continues to demonstrate why it remains one of the city’s most celebrated optical destinations.
