About Us
Our Mission

Save independent design and help customers realize the power of their personal style.
There are hundreds of independent designers pushing the boundaries of style & innovation. Too often the reward for their creativity is having their best styles copied and sold for less by “disruptive” companies claiming that eyewear is overpriced. The bigger price to pay is retail's lack of choice. Should companies sell luxury collections that only a few can enjoy or sell more "attainable" imitation brands that devalue the original artists?
We set out to do things differently. Offer thrilling eyewear from overstocks and discontinued styles at insider prices –enabling designers to thrive while giving everyone access to their creations.
Our Heritage
It all began in 1911 when Irving Silverstein saved up enough money to open his first optical store in San Francisco's Union Square. Fast forward to 1998, when Irving’s grandson, Lloyd & his wife Cynthia, opened Optical Underground – the go to destination for unique eyewear.


What's in it for you?
For eyewear addicts, enjoy styles from your favorite designer at truly insider prices. For those who haven’t braved the waters of high fashion eyewear, here’s an opportunity to dip your toe in without breaking the bank.
Who do you want to be today?
What's in it for designers?
We free up resources that could be used to create next season’s collections by purchasing overstocks and past season goods. We also serve as a brand ambassadors to customers who wouldn't otherwise have access to their products due to expense.
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