Colin Leslie Eyewear Bamboo Primrose Hill Sunglasses Review
Reviewed by Gemma Ingham
I reviewed a pair of sunglasses from Colin Leslie Eyewear and received the Primrose Hill style from their London collection.
Colin Leslie Eyewear is known for its stylish yet ethical image. Although they may look good, I wasn’t sure how sturdy a pair of shades made with bamboo frames and recycled materials would be.
First impressions were promising. The shades arrived in a soft small branded drawstring bag and I pulled out a vibrant pair of frames. I was struck by the difference between the bold print frames and the calm, clean smooth lines of the handcrafted bamboo arms. I don’t usually tend to pick patterned frames, but the Primrose Hill style is tasteful with small flecks of colour nestled within a random black scribble pattern.
They are quite a compact pair of sunglasses. I usually wear quite large shades so I can block the sun out completely when driving and these are much smaller than I would usually wear. However, because the frames can also be ordered with clear lenses which can then be exchanged for prescription lenses, the compact size means they would also be suited well to every day spectacle wear.
I have a few designer pairs of sunglasses and one thing that has always irritated me is the great big logo that us usually placed somewhere on the front, arms, or even lenses of the sunglasses. I was very pleased to see that Colin Leslie have kept their branding subtle, letting the bamboo frames speak for themselves without having to spell out who the designer is. There is a marking on the inside of the bamboo arms stating they are Colin Leslie.
As for sturdiness, the shades get top marks. I’m sure we’ve all done the awkward ‘driving with one hand and trying to open the arms of our sunglasses and put them on with the other hand’ shuffle before, and I am pleased to say these shades stood up to that well. They feel incredibly light when wearing them, and the view through the lenses is crisp and clear.
I love knowing I am wearing a pair of shades from a UK business that are made ethically, and that I look good while doing it.
Rating: 5/5
RRP: £75
Available to buy from Colin Leslie Eyewear here.
