Journalist turned Shoe-maker
Teri Olins & Steph Jones (on the right) co-founders and shoe-makers, Ops&Ops
This is one of my secret favourite shoe brands. Ops&Ops is a luxe 1960s inspired shoes and boots brand, designed in London and handmade in Portugal.
Meet Stephanie Jones, co-founder and shoe-maker of Ops&Ops.
I first met Steph when she was still writing for a living and I love that she followed a dream to co-create Ops&Ops. I've been supporting her business since it launched (let’s just say there are quite a few colours).
The shoes are unlined and divine, better than a ballerina but just as light. It's a day to night (or night to day) shoe. The choice is yours!
And of course, there's more to it.
There’s the story of two long-time friends, with a shared passion for 60s culture and great shoes.
Here's our five-minute catch-up...
TS: Hi Steph how are you?
SJ: Pretty good thanks, gearing up for Christmas
TS: What are you up to these days?
SJ: We have our shop now in Shoreditch, which keeps us busy and we're off to visit our factory in Portugal next week. It's a good chance for us to check out new leathers and we're working on some new styles.
TS: Remind me, how did you get into making shoes?
SJ: Teri and I had always spoken about having to compromise with footwear, not being able to get just what we wanted – a flat comfortable enough to wear all day to work and then all night out dancing. One day at a friend's birthday party, a little tipsy we decided to make our own.
TS: What's so good about your brand then?
SJ: Our shoes and boots look amazing, and you won’t find more comfortable footwear. Try a pair!
TS: I have! Several times.
TS: What did you do before?
SJ: I was a journalist. Very occasionally I'll still do a freelance piece.
TS: Where can we find you?
SJ: In the shop 67 Redchurch Street, London E27DJ
And over on Instagram opsandops