Zara Wong Teams Up with July for Exclusive Handbag Collection
If you have ever wondered what the best work handbag might be, you are certainly not alone. In fact, former Vogue fashion editor and Australia's leading fashion Substacker Zara Wong reveals this is the most frequent question she receives from her followers when she poses it on her social media feed. Recognizing this widespread interest, Wong saw a perfect opportunity when the founders of cult Australian fashion brand July approached her about a potential collaboration.
A Stunning Snapshot of July's Evolution
The resulting July x Zara Wong edit, launching this week on March 12, offers a stunning visual representation of the Melbourne-born brand's journey from iconic suitcases to coveted status-worthy bags. This curated collection brings Wong's sharp editorial perspective to a selection of pieces that span July's core luggage styles alongside its expanding range of bags and travel accessories, which now include luxurious real leather and suede options.
Athan Didaskalou, co-founder of July, emphasized the natural progression in a statement: "Luggage is our foundation, but the principles of functional-yet-beautiful design carry so naturally to bags that take you beyond the gate. Working with Zara brought a fresh perspective to the pieces we have been developing. Zara's edit encapsulates the breadth of what July has come to represent now."
He added: "Zara has built a strong reputation and audience both here in Australia and globally for her honest and informed style advice. It is exciting to have her sharp eye and unique lens on our growing range."
Versatility and Longevity at the Core
As a long-time July customer and fan, Zara Wong approached the edit with a focus on versatility and longevity, carefully selecting pieces she believes can transition seamlessly between travel and everyday life. "Nowadays when you are at the airport the baggage carousel is filled with July's cult suitcases, but their handbags have been sleeper hits," Wong explained.
"I often get asked by my own audience and community for recommendations that are both practical yet chic, so it is ideal that they are expanding into a wider range of silhouettes and styles that still retain functionality as a core design principle."
Wong further noted: "When I spent time with the July team, it was clear the design thinking behind the bags is very real. Meeting with July's lead product designer Sophia Martin and learning about her background at Acne Studios and Thom Browne really resonated with me — those are houses known for their design discipline. You can see that same attention to structure and detail in the pieces here, which made curating the edit feel very natural to me."
Highlights from the Collection
The curation provides a glimpse into several standout styles, including an elevated black bowler bag and a caramel suede mini-bowler, highlighting July's evolution towards a more luxurious offering that maintains functionality and approachability. While there are many highlights in the new collection, a few key pieces stand out:
- Croc-embossed leather weekender bags in muted tones
- A coral leather croc crossbody
- A classic black bowler bag
- An everyday PU leather backpack
- Mini winged crossbody handbags in pony (cow hide) and plum PU leather
Zara's selection also incorporates July's signature luggage styles, such as checked trunk sets in almond and brown and the brand's Classic suitcase family in a new plum colourway, creating a cohesive mix of travel pieces and everyday bags. Together, the edit reflects a modern travel wardrobe — pieces designed to move effortlessly between everyday life, work, and travel.
Top Five Picks from the New Collection
- Juliette Frame Weekender, $595
- Juliette Soft Winge Crossbody, $295
- Juliette Mini Bowler, $345
- Juliette Soft Backpack, $295
- Juliette Soft Open Winged Tote, $295
This collaboration not only answers the perennial question about the best work handbag but also showcases how July continues to innovate while staying true to its design ethos, making it a must-see for fashion enthusiasts and practical shoppers alike.
