Designer Spotlight: Ocular Jewellery

Earlier this year, I introduced you to UK emerging designer Lianna Sheppard, the talented creative behind the jewellery and accessories line, Ocular. It was only a matter of time when both of our schedules would allow us to finally chat in depth about her collection amidst us both enjoying an early morning cuppa.

The brand itself, just shy of three years, has already gained the spotlight in many fashion magazines, including Cosmopolitan and Fabulous. Her unique pieces have also been in Selfridges–in Supermarket Sarah’s shop. And, why not! She goes for the bold and does so quite confidently in her designs. The collection? Imagine dipping your Crayolas into a new shade of fearless!

“I adore colour! Everything I wear is sort of colourful, and I love geometrical patterns, shapes, and forms. Back at college, I was into flowers, and one day I just sort of put more [emphasis on] geometric forms and sculptural shapes. But, I’m probably rebelling a bit against myself because, for my Masters, most of it was black and white. The work that I did [during] my B.A. was really brilliantly colourful, so I think I was craving a bit more of that,” said Sheppard.

Sheppard’s use of line and colour stimulates the artistic mind. The pieces create a graphically driven and attention-grabbing-in-your-face result that’s loved by both, risk-taking fashion devotees as well as the much intrigued art-enthused. The Ocular line has mathematically influenced accessories that take on a 3D aesthetic, yet merely being a flat wearable accessory.

Fancy online shopping in technicolour? Sit tight, we’ve got you covered. There are heart rings, statement necklaces, and even shapely brooches amongst other options to choose from throughout the glowing Ocular line.

“I wanted to do something for the guys as well. The pieces that I make earrings for, I thought they could actually make really nice cufflinks,” said Sheppard.  And, how timely since men’s fashion has been smartly colouring outside the lines in recent seasons. Fittingly, the cufflinks have become a big hit all on their own!

In brief, Sheppard takes a little bit of this and a dash of that to a whole other colour block level. It even looks to be intensely complex, yet in actuality it is hardworking hands, simple lines, and daring colour that is purely the basis of this flourishing collection. That’s right! Every piece is produced and even etched by the designer herself!  

“All of my pieces are laser cut acrylic. I design all of the forms on my computer on [Adobe] Illustrator. Then, I get them hand cut, say what colours I need, etc.  After I get all of them sent back to me, I organise them all by piece, size and colour, and put them together in my studio,” said Sheppard.

Special attention to details knighted with a handmade touch!  Of course, this is Fashion Tales approved!

FASHION TALES x OCULAR EXCLUSIVE!

Fashion Tales is proud to collaborate with Lianna Sheppard for Ocular, to provide two lucky readers with one piece each from her collection. 

Visit the site here and comment below on what’s your favourite item. Or, look at the pieces above that I’ve chosen in the style boards, and tell me your favourite piece. The winners will be chosen randomly via Rafflecopter.

*This is an international giveaway, so go forth and shop now! Winners have 7 days to claim their award before another winner is chosen.

*Giveaway is now closed.*

Getting to know Lianna Sheppard:

Must-have items that you carry in your handbag?

Smart Phone, Lip Balm, Umbrella, and/or Sunglasses!

On designer influence and favourites …

Fred Butler

What’s on your music playlist at the moment?

I’m loving anything by Haim. Right this minute, I'm listening to a mix-tape by Syron. Check her out, she's a BABE!

Words of Wisdom to aspiring designers …

To anyone who is thinking, “Should I try this?” Just go for it, that’s the only way you’re ever going to know if something works!

On future collaborations …

It would be really cool to work with a handbag designer, have a show where I could have my jewellery alongside their bags or even design pieces for their bag collection. That would be awesome! I would love to also work together with another jewellery designer.