Licensed optician Anthony has been in the optical field since 2005. It was Kristen who came up with the name ‘The Novel Eye’.

The Novel Eye is a proudly owner-operated, family-run business specializing in independent eyewear labels from the US, EU and Japan.

The shop’s floors are original pine from the 1850s.

The finishing lab is on the retail floor. “We wanted our customers to see what it takes to make a pair of specs,” says Anthony.

The decor is meant to make you feel like you are shopping within one’s home and not necessarily an optical shop.

The Novel Eye is housed within the Avis Block, a large brick structure built in 1850.

The business joins in the spirit of Wickford’s annual “Wicked Week” leading up to Halloween.

The optical’s shelving is handmade and stained, to complement the hardwood flooring.

The Rebellos’ philosophy is to work with independent labels whose brand stories are easy to communicate to customers, like Etnia Barcelona, SALT., Theo Eyewear, Blackfin, Maui Jim and Shamir.

The Novel Eye’s cedar and plywood storefront sign needed the OK from local authorities to ensure it used materials that existed in the 17th century, when Wickford was incorporated.