JAMES ORO ARCHIVE
This archive outlines the work I have done during my tenure at JAMES ORO as the head of design. Joining the team at the development stage, I had the chance to steer the design aspect of the brand in a new direction. I had the opportunity to be involved with every project and aspect of the brand that required design input and execution. Here is the collection of outcomes below.
SUNGLASSES: THE MASK THAT REVEALS
My primary role as the head designer was to design and curate glasses for each collection. Each collection is a cohesive yet versatile family of frames that speaks to each individual.
SUNGLASSES: THE MASK THAT REVEALS
My primary role as the head designer was to design and curate glasses for each collection. Each collection is a cohesive yet versatile family of frames that speaks to each individual.
JAMES ORO COLLECTION III - BREAKING CONVENTION
COLLECTION III was an exercise of deep research and design. Building the foundation of the new direction in Collection II, this collection allowed me push and explore with in the boundaries of the design codes and aesthetic I put out. The expansion of product offerings have already been set forth, I had the opportunity to experiment and evolve with new materials and methods while reworking best selling styles. With deeper knowledge on the possibilities of manufacturing and the market, I set out to continue evolving the brand by creating statement eyewear.
Exercising restraint was the challenge and lesson I learned from developing this collection. Walking a thin line of mediocre and over done was difficult, but learning to walk that line consistently in design made me more effective. These frames are the outcome this journey. An evolution of the previous collection done in a way that is balanced and respectful of the past.
Eyewear design and development by Benjamin Chang with support from the JAMES ORO team.
JAMES ORO COLLECTION III - BREAKING CONVENTION
COLLECTION III was an exercise of deep research and design. Building the foundation of the new direction in Collection II, this collection allowed me push and explore with in the boundaries of the design codes and aesthetic I put out. The expansion of product offerings have already been set forth, I had the opportunity to experiment and evolve with new materials and methods while reworking best selling styles. With deeper knowledge on the possibilities of manufacturing and the market, I set out to continue evolving the brand by creating statement eyewear.
Exercising restraint was the challenge and lesson I learned from developing this collection. Walking a thin line of mediocre and over done was difficult, but learning to walk that line consistently in design made me more effective. These frames are the outcome this journey. An evolution of the previous collection done in a way that is balanced and respectful of the past.
Eyewear design and development by Benjamin Chang with support from the JAMES ORO team.
JAMES ORO COLLECTION III - BREAKING CONVENTION
COLLECTION III was an exercise of deep research and design. Building the foundation of the new direction in Collection II, this collection allowed me push and explore with in the boundaries of the design codes and aesthetic I put out. The expansion of product offerings have already been set forth, I had the opportunity to experiment and evolve with new materials and methods while reworking best selling styles. With deeper knowledge on the possibilities of manufacturing and the market, I set out to continue evolving the brand by creating statement eyewear.
Eyewear design and development by Benjamin Chang with support from the JAMES ORO team.
JAMES ORO COLLECTION II - A CHANGE OF WIND
COLLECTION II was my debut collection that I designed during my first year. It was an exciting time as I was given full creative control and full support of the JAMES ORO team. The parameters of my design was to expand the catalog of products with more complex and exciting designs, creating frames that expanded the reach to an audience beyond the current. It was an exciting time given the opportunity to try things that the brand has never done before, and being at the forefront figuring it out as I grew within the brand.
This collection was a reflection of adolescent excitement, a small brand looking for a leader in design, and a hungry young designer searching for a chance to prove himself. The result of that marriage that resulted in exciting bold silhouettes, combination of materials, and exciting colors.
Eyewear design and development by Benjamin Chang with support from the JAMES ORO team.
JAMES ORO COLLECTION II - A CHANGE OF WIND
COLLECTION II was my debut collection that I designed during my first year. It was an exciting time as I was given full creative control and full support of the JAMES ORO team. The parameters of my design was to expand the catalog of products with more complex and exciting designs, creating frames that expanded the reach to an audience beyond the current. It was an exciting time given the opportunity to try things that the brand has never done before, and being at the forefront figuring it out as I grew within the brand.
This collection was a reflection of adolescent excitement, a small brand looking for a leader in design, and a hungry young designer searching for a chance to prove himself. The result of that marriage that resulted in exciting bold silhouettes, combination of materials, and exciting colors.
Eyewear design and development by Benjamin Chang with support from the JAMES ORO team.
JAMES ORO COLLECTION II - A CHANGE OF WIND
COLLECTION II was my debut collection that I designed during my first year. It was an exciting time as I was given full creative control and full support of the JAMES ORO team. The parameters of my design was to expand the catalog of products with more complex and exciting designs, creating frames that expanded the reach to an audience beyond the current. It was an exciting time given the opportunity to try things that the brand has never done before, and being at the forefront figuring it out as I grew within the brand.
Eyewear design and development by Benjamin Chang with support from the JAMES ORO team.
SPECIAL PROJECTS: COLLABORATION OF MANY MINDS
As JAMES ORO gained momentum in the streetwear scene, the brand has tapped into many creatives, celebrities, and brands for limited edition collaborations.
JAMES ORO x BEN BALLER: THE BOSCH
The first of many collaborations with the celebrity jeweler Ben Baller, known to don exquisite pieces of jewelry on the highest profile celebrities, and artists, Ben Baller is a true hustler who captures the persona of a creative making it in Los Angeles.
The BOSCH, a frame formed in collaboration tells the story of the old and current LA scene. The flat top form of the BOSCH draws inspiration from LOCS sunglasses that was worn in the hip hop scene of LA in the 90s. Remixed into a thick acetate body with a tapering and oversized form, gives the frame a new school look. The BOSCH frame is an embodiment of Ben Baller himself, being an OG of the early LA scene to retaining great cultural influence in street culture to this day.
Available exclusively on the NTWRK app in BLACK/PLATINUM & VVS CLEAR/24k GOLD
Eyewear design, development, packaging, and graphic design by Benjamin Chang with support from the JAMES ORO team.
JAMES ORO x BEN BALLER: THE BOSCH
The first of many collaborations with the celebrity jeweler Ben Baller, known to don exquisite pieces of jewelry on the highest profile celebrities, and artists, Ben Baller is a true hustler who captures the persona of a creative making it in Los Angeles.
The BOSCH, a frame formed in collaboration tells the story of the old and current LA scene. The flat top form of the BOSCH draws inspiration from LOCS sunglasses that was worn in the hip hop scene of LA in the 90s. Remixed into a thick acetate body with a tapering and oversized form, gives the frame a new school look. The BOSCH frame is an embodiment of Ben Baller himself, being an OG of the early LA scene to retaining great cultural influence in street culture to this day.
Available exclusively on the NTWRK app in BLACK/PLATINUM & VVS CLEAR/24k GOLD
Eyewear design, development, packaging, and graphic design by Benjamin Chang with support from the JAMES ORO team.
JAMES ORO x BEN BALLER: THE BOSCH
The BOSCH, a frame formed in collaboration tells the story of the old and current LA scene. The flat top form of the BOSCH draws inspiration from LOCS sunglasses that was worn in the hip hop scene of LA in the 90s. Remixed into a thick acetate body with a tapering and oversized form, gives the frame a new school look. The BOSCH frame is an embodiment of Ben Baller himself, being an OG of the early LA scene to retaining great cultural influence in street culture to this day.
Available exclusively on the NTWRK app in BLACK/PLATINUM & VVS CLEAR/24k GOLD
JAMES ORO SURGE
SURGE is a lifestyle shoe that effortlessly merges skate-inspired aesthetics with the timeless allure of the Nike Air Force 1. The shoe features a smooth leather upper with layered paneling, creating a dynamic design reminiscent of urban skate culture.
Grounded on a Margom Jag sole, SURGE not only delivers durability and comfort but also exudes a streetwise elegance that elevates its overall aesthetic. The subtle yet impactful details, including a shooting star stitched onto the shoe and embossed branding on the front and back, add a touch of individuality, making SURGE a standout choice for those seeking a unique blend of style and substance in their footwear collection.
Available In CONTRAST (BLACK/WHITE) and PURE (WHITE) Designed in Los Angeles and produced in Portugal.
Footwear design, development, packaging, and graphic design by Benjamin Chang & Brandon Lam and the JAMES ORO team.
JAMES ORO x BEN BALLER: THE BOSCH
The first of many collaborations with the celebrity jeweler Ben Baller, known to don exquisite pieces of jewelry on the highest profile celebrities, and artists, Ben Baller is a true hustler who captures the persona of a creative making it in Los Angeles.
The BOSCH, a frame formed in collaboration tells the story of the old and current LA scene. The flat top form of the BOSCH draws inspiration from LOCS sunglasses that was worn in the hip hop scene of LA in the 90s. Remixed into a thick acetate body with a tapering and oversized form, gives the frame a new school look. The BOSCH frame is an embodiment of Ben Baller himself, being an OG of the early LA scene to retaining great cultural influence in street culture to this day.
Available exclusively on the NTWRK app in BLACK/PLATINUM & VVS CLEAR/24k GOLD
Eyewear design, development, packaging, and graphic design by Benjamin Chang with support from the JAMES ORO team.
JAMES ORO x BEN BALLER: THE BOSCH
The BOSCH, a frame formed in collaboration tells the story of the old and current LA scene. The flat top form of the BOSCH draws inspiration from LOCS sunglasses that was worn in the hip hop scene of LA in the 90s. Remixed into a thick acetate body with a tapering and oversized form, gives the frame a new school look. The BOSCH frame is an embodiment of Ben Baller himself, being an OG of the early LA scene to retaining great cultural influence in street culture to this day.
Available exclusively on the NTWRK app in BLACK/PLATINUM & VVS CLEAR/24k GOLD
PACKAGING & MISCELLANEOUS: THE ART OF THEATRE
Aside from my primary focus of designing glasses I also designed the packaging experience. Glasses are often seen as object is adorned on the face yet serves a purpose of utility. An object that is purchased as an investment for long lasting use, must be presented in a way that is treasured in its continued use long after the first encounter.
PACKAGING & MISCELLANEOUS: THE ART OF THEATRE
Aside from my primary focus of designing glasses I also designed the packaging experience. Glasses are often seen as object is adorned on the face yet serves a purpose of utility. An object that is purchased as an investment for long lasting use, must be presented in a way that is treasured in its continued use long after the first encounter.
COLLECTION II PACKAGING- ELEVATING THE STANDARD
The packaging experience for COLLECTION II was a minor yet elevated outcome. Utilizing the dimensions and construction of the previous packaging, the evolution focused on creating an enjoyable experience that is parallel to the frames it encapsulates. Tactility is the center of this performance, each layer of texture is like an act that leads to the climax. This grand descent of opening and feeling luxurious textures reinforces the finale, when the frame is finally revealed to the audience.
Packaging and graphic design by Benjamin Chang with support from the JAMES ORO team.
COLLECTION II PACKAGING- ELEVATING THE STANDARD
The packaging experience for COLLECTION II was a minor yet elevated outcome. Utilizing the dimensions and construction of the previous packaging, the evolution focused on creating an enjoyable experience that is parallel to the frames it encapsulates. Tactility is the center of this performance, each layer of texture is like an act that leads to the climax. This grand descent of opening and feeling luxurious textures reinforces the finale, when the frame is finally revealed to the audience.
Packaging and graphic design by Benjamin Chang with support from the JAMES ORO team.
COLLECTION II PACKAGING- ELEVATING THE STANDARD
The packaging experience for COLLECTION II was a minor yet elevated outcome. Utilizing the dimensions and construction of the previous packaging, the evolution focused on creating an enjoyable experience that is parallel to the frames it encapsulates. Tactility is the center of this performance, each layer of texture is like an act that leads to the climax. This grand descent of opening and feeling luxurious textures reinforces the finale, when the frame is finally revealed to the audience.
BRAND AND STRATEGY: FORMING THE IDENTITY OF AN ENTITY
Designing the brand identity was one of the first tasks I was responsible for and continuously modified and evolved with every collection. The graphic assets and narrative woven into the brand would dictate the design language, and aesthetic attitude for our visual output. This is the mask the brand dons.
BRAND AND STRATEGY: FORMING THE IDENTITY OF AN ENTITY
Designing the brand identity was one of the first tasks I was responsible for and continuously modified and evolved with every collection. The graphic assets and narrative woven into the brand would dictate the design language, and aesthetic attitude for our visual output. This is the mask the brand dons.
JAMES ORO - BRANDING & IDENTITY
JAMES ORO has always been a brand for the people and for the streets, and that was one of the most important aspects to weave into the brand narrative. Like our audience we are on a journey to achieve greatness and our brand speaks about the path and process that moves the needle closer to our goals. Beyond the selling products we want to inspire a generation to create something that is truly their own.
The "O" Icon represents the eye of the individual and the star in the center is the goals we desire to achieve. The star motif was insipired by the age of seafarers using stars to guide them to their destination, just like the stars in the night sky our stars are our dreams and aspirations, and if we follow them we maybe able to achieve something great.
Branding and graphic design by Benjamin Chang with support from the JAMES ORO team.
JAMES ORO - BRANDING & IDENTITY
JAMES ORO has always been a brand for the people and for the streets, and that was one of the most important aspects to weave into the brand narrative. Like our audience we are on a journey to achieve greatness and our brand speaks about the path and process that moves the needle closer to our goals. Beyond the selling products we want to inspire a generation to create something that is truly their own.
The "O" Icon represents the eye of the individual and the star in the center is the goals we desire to achieve. The star motif was insipired by the age of seafarers using stars to guide them to their destination, just like the stars in the night sky our stars are our dreams and aspirations, and if we follow them we maybe able to achieve something great.
Branding and graphic design by Benjamin Chang with support from the JAMES ORO team.
JAMES ORO - BRANDING & IDENTITY
JAMES ORO has always been a brand for the people and for the streets, and that was one of the most important aspects to weave into the brand narrative. Like our audience we are on a journey to achieve greatness and our brand speaks about the path and process that moves the needle closer to our goals. Beyond the selling products we want to inspire a generation to create something that is truly their own.
ENVIRONMENT & DISPLAY: EXHIBIT OF EXPRESSIONS
Trade shows and conventions are an integral part of our marketing strategy, to meet our people, and allow them to put a face and name to the brand. In order to bridge JAMES ORO to the people, an experiential space must be created to capture the essence of the brand and product.
COMPLEX CON 2022 - BREAKING INTO THE INDUSTRY
As our brand was preparing for our second showcase at Complex Con, I was tasked to design, manage, and assist in the construction of the JAMES ORO booth. I wanted to create an experience that captures the brand narrative in a captivating way for our audience to enjoy.
The bank heist theme is a metaphorical reflection of our ethos and spirit, breaking into an industry that has long been dominated by big companies and brands. We want to create an experience that feels like we are taking what is ours and doing it for the community that we came from. We want to create an installation that tells a narrative to our audience that symbolizes the journey we have taken to be here at COMPLEX CON. Our spirit is youthful and our approach to design is rebellious, these elements are synonymous to the streetwear scene. Taking chances and creating our own path instead of succumbing to the giants that already exist is the story of our community and a perfect representation of a bank heist.
Environmental and technical design by Benjamin Chang with support from the JAMES ORO team.
COMPLEX CON 2022 - BREAKING INTO THE INDUSTRY
As our brand was preparing for our second showcase at Complex Con, I was tasked to design, manage, and assist in the construction of the JAMES ORO booth. I wanted to create an experience that captures the brand narrative in a captivating way for our audience to enjoy.
The bank heist theme is a metaphorical reflection of our ethos and spirit, breaking into an industry that has long been dominated by big companies and brands. We want to create an experience that feels like we are taking what is ours and doing it for the community that we came from. We want to create an installation that tells a narrative to our audience that symbolizes the journey we have taken to be here at COMPLEX CON. Our spirit is youthful and our approach to design is rebellious, these elements are synonymous to the streetwear scene. Taking chances and creating our own path instead of succumbing to the giants that already exist is the story of our community and a perfect representation of a bank heist.
Environmental and technical design by Benjamin Chang with support from the JAMES ORO team.
COMPLEX CON 2022 - BREAKING INTO THE INDUSTRY
The bank heist theme is a metaphorical reflection of our ethos and spirit, breaking into an industry that has long been dominated by big companies and brands. We want to create an installation that tells a narrative to our audience that symbolizes the journey we have taken to be here at COMPLEX CON. Our spirit is youthful and our approach to design is rebellious, these elements are synonymous to the streetwear scene. Taking chances and creating our own path is the story of our community and a perfect representation of a bank heist.