Ossa

Ossa

Ossa New York was founded in 2022 by Katie Simcox, a designer who worked at Marchesa and Alexander Wang, and Sarah Crane, who came from wholesale at A.P.C., rag and bone and Theory. Their idea was a fashion take on Europe's phone chain trend: beaded cords, metal chains, freshwater pearls and gemstones that clip onto a custom clear case through a patented ball chain connection, so you can swap straps whenever you like. This edit gathers the wristlets, crossbody chains and cases that turn a phone into an accessory.

Collage of street style and campaign shots that capture the Ossa mood

Beaded wristlets

I did not think I needed a phone strap until I tried one and stopped setting my phone down on every restaurant table. Ossa makes the most stylish version I have found. The beaded wristlets in this grid use glass, crystal, gemstone and Murano beads in color stories that feel like jewelry, and the brand says each cord detaches from its patented clear case so you can swap them with your outfit. Start with a neutral bead in cream or smoky quartz and you will wear it daily.

Gemstones, pearls and pavé

The second grid moves into fancier straps. Freshwater pearl strands that the brand double knots between each pearl, faceted crystals, champagne gold beads, fringe and little pavé charms make your phone feel closer to a bracelet. What I would skip is pairing a busy strap with a busy phone case; keep the case clear so the beads stand out.

Crossbody chains and cases

Longer crossbody chains and ball chain straps let you wear your phone hands free, which is the whole point on a busy day in the city. The clear cases tie it all together, and a few metal and leather bolo options are a little more minimal. Tribeca Citizen reported Ossa taking a storefront on Reade Street in late 2023, so these are very much a New York idea.

How I would wear it

Buy one clear case and two straps, a short beaded wristlet for dinners and a crossbody chain for errands. Ossa made phone straps feel like jewelry, and swapping them is half the fun. If you want to keep browsing, I also put together Tiny Bags, Pouches and Slim Wallets for Fall.