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Me and my glasses

Harriet Lee

Paralympian swimmer Harriet Lee on her eyewear

Olympic swimmer, Harriet Lee

How many pairs of spectacles and sunglasses do you own?

I own four pairs of glasses and two pairs of sunglasses.

Can you describe your first pair of spectacles?

They are Tom Davies glasses that were made especially for me after the London 2012 Games. They are turquoise and thin with pointy wings that have my name and messages of congratulations engraved on them.

Do you have a favourite pair?

Because they’re so unique, I adore my Tom Davies pair, but at the moment I love my new Heritage sunglasses from Vision Express’ Exclusive Brands range. The aviator style really suits my face shape and the colour of the lenses is great for me as I have such sensitive eyes. They’re going to be perfect for Rio.

Who would you pick as your eyewear style icon and why?

I love the classic and sophisticated style of Audrey Hepburn. Victoria Beckham always looks great in sunglasses too, so I look to her for fashion inspiration.

"I'm always telling my family they need to get their eyes checked and I even buy sunglasses as gifts for my godchildren"

Do you wear contact lenses?

I don’t currently wear contact lenses as I spend some much time in the water, it’s easier for me to wear frames. I’d love to set up a consultation to try them though, when I have some down time from training. I also really like wearing different glasses for different occasions – they’re great accessories. For instance, I have my day pair that I might wear around the house, and then I’ll save my favourite pair for dressing up or going out.

What prompted you to go for an eye examination?

My vision is quite unusual in that it changes on a daily basis, so I have three different pairs of glasses, each with a different prescription to suit my changing needs. As an ambassador for Vision Express, the multiple is really great at reminding me when my next check-up is due.

Has wearing spectacles changed your outlook on eye care?

Wearing glasses and working with Vision Express has definitely changed my outlook on eye care. I’m always telling my family they need to get their eyes checked and I even buy sunglasses as gifts for my godchildren. My eyes are very sensitive to sunlight so a high UV rating is really important to me. I like that Vision Express has lots of choice when it comes to sunglasses so that I can still be trendy but protect my eyes as best I can.

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