Don't pay the sticker price A Consumer Reports survey found that most buyers don't negotiate, but more than 25% of those who requested a discount saved $100 or more on eyeglasses. You should definitely bargain with your eye doctor, says Kelley Long, a personal finance coach and CPA.

Designer labels aside, more expensive frames are more complex, made from better materials, and handcrafted in countries that pay fair labor rates. This translates into a better quality, longer lasting products.