My Local Lovin’ series is a spotlight on designers / stores / creators of marvellous things (and anything else that catches my eye) – all based here in Scotland. I believe that we should be supporting amazing home-grown talent, so I decided to keep Local Lovin’ as a permanent feature. If you have an awesome project, or create something that you think I might love, please let me know! See my Contact page for details of how to get in touch.
If you live in Glasgow and wear glasses (or even if you don’t!) the chances are you will be aware of IOLLA. This Scottish eyewear brand have only been around for a couple of years but, in that very short space of time, they’ve made some serious waves bringing stylish and affordable eyewear to the masses.
I’m very excited to be sharing a chat with Stefan Hunter, the co-founder of IOLLA, with you guys today. With a new Edinburgh store opening earlier this month, AND a gorgeous new collection of frames dropping in the last week, it felt like the perfect time to have a blether with the man behind the brand…
Congratulations on your new store launch! What can people expect from a visit to IOLLA in Stockbridge?
Our new space is essentially a refined version of of what you’ll find in Finnieston. We have stepped up the game in terms of environment, with a new design of custom shelving and warm, direct lighting to make it perfect for viewing the whole collection. Through the usual quirky interior touches and friendly faces of our team we still manage to maintain the relaxed, fun retail environment that our customers have come to love about IOLLA.
Can you tell me a bit about what sorts of things inspire you to create new designs at IOLLA?
The inspiration behind new designs at IOLLA is almost always built from what we know our customers already love with our current collection. By accentuating certain parts of a frame like how round it is, how thick the rim is or how bright a colour is we’re able to give our customers new designs that leave them feeling like they’re able to change up their entire look with a pair of glasses from the new collection.
Do you have a favourite design from any of your collections? Which pair do you find yourself reaching for the most?
The IOLLA ‘Murray’ frame from our Spring 2017 launch is a design that I think encompasses our brand perfectly. This style is perfect as a sunglass or optical frame and although it is bold with its thick rims and metal bridge it is still smart enough for any occasion. I’m also super proud of the attention to detail in the construction and materials used in the style.
Where is your favourite place in Glasgow to grab a cup of coffee?
There are so many but I love the consistency and authenticity of Papercup, a place that stays true to its roots and focusses obsessively on making every cup perfect.
In just a few short years, IOLLA have certainly made their mark - what’s been your most proud achievement so far?
The fact that we’ve managed to considerably grow the business whilst never sacrificing our service or product quality is something I am so proud of the team for. I’m also super humbled by all of the awards and recognition we’ve received by so many throughout our journey.
I’m all about sharing the love - are there any other Scottish brands that you recommend we check out?
I’ve been a big fan of Kestin Hare since coming across the brand a few years ago, I personally know how hard it is to design, manufacture and sell your own products and I think Kestin does this flawlessly. I’m also really impressed by Chloe and the team at Mud Urban Flowers, as the approach they have to a traditionally outdated market is akin to our own.
Finally, do you have anything else coming up this year that we should keep our eyes peeled for?
Our Spring 2018 Collection will be launching throughout February and it contains some of our boldest styles to date, featuring extra thick acetate rims, double-bridges and some new bright colours. We’re also planning polarised clip-ons for our most popular optical frames, coming in the first half of the year.
I can’t wait to pop into the new store during my next jaunt to the capital, have you been yet?
You can keep up with all things IOLLA over on their Instagram page and use #seewithIOLLA to show off your specs and sunnies!
