Consumer Reports takes close look at buying eyeglasses

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- If you are trying to use up your Flexible Spending Account before the year ends, prescription eyeglasses may be a great way to spend the savings.

Be prepared for sticker shock. Frames, lenses, and protective coatings can add up to $500 or more.

Consumer Reports found that you can save up to 40 percent on the cost of eyeglasses without sacrificing fashion.

Can you spot the difference between a $280 designer frame and a $160 look alike?

"Prices for eyeglasses are all over the map. You might have two pairs of glasses and they look the same, the quality is pretty much the same, but they're sold at vastly different prices," said Sue Byrne with Consumer Reports. "One of the reasons for that is that a handful of companies are making most of the frames and lenses out there."

Luxottica, for example, makes frames for Chanel and Prada, but also for Pearle Vision and Target Optical at a fraction of the cost.

It's a good idea to check online stores that make their own frames for less. At Warby Parker, you can find single-vision glasses, designed in-house, for $95. You can upload a photo to virtually try on the frames or request up to five pairs to try at home for five days, free of charge.

Zenni Optical also offers frames for under $30. With lenses, they can be under $100.

But Consumer Reports says buying online isn't for everyone.

"It may not work if you have a complicated prescription. And if you need to have your glasses adjusted, you're probably out of luck." said Byrne

A good strategy is to buy the frames online and the lenses in a discount store. Walmart Vision Center will fill any frames you bring in for $10 plus the cost of the prescription. Costco Optical will do the same for $18. Both stores also offer low-cost frames that are worth checking out.