The whole place is modeled on a library, complete with terrazzo floors and “Reference Desk” in the rear. But the store’s design makes it clear that they’re fans of the written word. The company name comes from a pair of Kerouac characters, which, like most literary references, you’d have to know to make the connection.

The other element of the business that stands out when visiting the store is the bookish streak.

The Jackson – exclusive to Baltimore for now. Sunglasses make up a sizable portion of the inventory on display, and with summer upon us Warby Parker is offering a model called the Jackson exclusively in Baltimore, for now. Standing inside the store, it’s also clear that the company has branched out to include those who have great eyesight (lucky!) or opt not to wear glasses all the time. In addition to shopping for eyeglasses, they plan to begin giving eye exams in-house so shoppers can also make sure their prescriptions are up-to-date.Īlong with e-commerce, Warby Parker got famous style-wise with a distinct take on the tortoise shell glasses that show no signs of going away. The new store is the first physical presence in Maryland, though they have locations in DC. New York-based Warby Parker started by selling glasses online and shipping multiple pairs to try on, but has since moved into brick and mortar retail showrooms and retail stores across the country. The store, which opened its doors on Wednesday, is inside a 1,000 sq. Books, however, are just as much a part of the spectacle. Glasses, whether helping the eyes to see or protecting them from the sun, are the focal point of Warby Parker’s new store in Harbor East.

Inside Warby Parker in Harbor East (photo by Stephen Babcock)

Open port fishbowl inventory