Getting to Know: Orris London

2019 has been the year for unlikely trends, and while sporting a glasses’ chain may have hitherto been considered grandmother chic, after featuring in collections by the likes of Gucci and Stella McCartney in 2019 runway shows, the buzz around this functional accessory is undoubtedly current. What we have seen are the endless possibilities – from materials and shapes to sizing and shades, the variation in styles which have been produced since their runway debut leaves us wondering how we’ve been ignoring the potential for so long.

One label showcasing the possibilities around this side-lined accessory is Orris London. A fledgling brand, Orris London was founded only in 2018 by Tara Shen. Originally from Shanghai where she previously worked in fashion design, Tara moved to London to study a Masters’ degree at London College of Fashion. After completing her degree, Tara began reflecting on what she wanted to contribute to the design industry. Meditating on her own travels, Tara landed on the idea of functional, stylish accessories to aid a woman who is always on the move. From this, Orris London was born, offering a range of carefully made luxury acetate chains at an affordable price point. With acetate usually reserved for crafting premium frames, Tara’s use of the material for an attachment piece shows her dedication to producing a long-lasting, durable accessory.

Acetate is hailed for its weather and heat resistant qualities, but what is unique about Tara’s latest collection is her exploration of sustainable acetate, including a recent design made from biomaterial. Certain styles from the latest collection have been made from a cotton and wood fibre pulp blend, which has then been set and laser cut before given a hand polish.

Taking seven days to carefully create each chain, raw materials are first sourced from Italy before being sent to factories in China – visited by Shen herself to ensure they meet ethical standards – to be formed into the links, until finally hand polished in Poland. Tara’s meticulous production process results in each chain made with the utmost care.

Priding herself on the longevity of her designs, Tara also offers a full repair and replace service for any natural breakage or damage. Plus, the entirely metal free design means you can use them in the pool or sea without risk of rust. 

Supplied in select luxury UK stockists, shop Orris London on our website now.