Judy Huang (left) and Kim Wall (right), co-founders of Project July. Images supplied.
Judy Huang and Kim Wall are the co-founders of Project July which is a brand they created to promote female empowerment through fashion. Together they share a love of clothing and the transformative power of dressing, that both excites and reveals a little of the wearer’s personality. Project July is the umbrella under which they want to launch a charitable initiative and promote beautiful fashion with the first label they’re stocking being Dutch label Fabienne Chapot.
After initially launching last month, Project July are holding their first pop-up shop next weekend, Saturday 21st and Sunday 22nd November at Orakei Bay Village (by Farro) from 9am – 4pm Saturday and 10- 2pm Sunday.
We caught up with Judy and Kim to find out more about their brand, what inspires them and what you would never catch them wearing!
Tell us about your latest collection?
Project July is the exclusive NZ stockist of Dutch designer, Fabienne Chapot, who features feminine shapes that enable you to feel your best self. Prints are designed by in-house artists and fabrics are sourced with sustainability in mind.
The SS20 collection features bold prints in brilliant colours, designed to brighten up your wardrobe. We love the feminine cut and quirky details incorporated in each piece.
What made you become a designer?
Project July began during a mid-winter’s morning walk between two friends who celebrate fashion that supports positivity, colour and empowerment.
What inspires you?
Kim: New ideas and ways of looking at something. Not being afraid of trying something (resulting in success or failure), and growing from the experience.
Judy: Travelling, connecting with people and doing things I have not tried before really do give me a happy adrenaline rush. Project July is a combination of all the above.
Look from Project July’s SS20 range.
Describe your personal style and how it influences your designs?
Kim: During the work week, I favour quality fabrics in feminine colours and designs, featuring frills, details, or anything with an edge. Conversely, my weekend attire is relaxed, with trackies and hoodies strongly featured. Thanks to Covid – my love of casual comfort has finally been embraced!
Judy: I’m not sure what my style is, but I love chunky jewellery. I do not follow trends or crowds but prefer something comfortable and representing my own character and personality. Through Project July, we want women to feel their best and perform at the fullest in their life.
What is your all-time favourite purchase?
Kim: My favourite piece from the SS20 Project July collection, is the Mia Sunny Flowers dress by Fabienne Chapot. Elegant, feminine, bold and comfortable!
Judy: My favourite item from Fabienne Chapot so far would have to be my green Leopard Haley dress. Whenever I need a bit of a power boost and put armour on, it will be the piece I pick!
What wardrobe item should everyone invest in?
Kim: Colour, fabric and cut are key here. Invest in a session with a stylist who can impart this wisdom and you will purchase items that make you feel incredible every time.
Judy: A comfortable, personal style bold dress that has your name on it. You can dress it up with a pair of heels or down with a pair of sneakers. Love it.
Do you have a style rule you always obey?
Kim: Not particularly – style evolves with us, our lives, and our circumstance.
Judy: Have a statement piece whether it is a chunky jewellery piece, dress, top or pants. Work with it but don’t clash.
Look from Project July’s SS20 range.
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
Kim: Through work, I’m fortunate to have travelled and lived amongst different cultures in many countries, learning different customs and ways of life. Every treasured experience is unique and with it, comes growth and understanding.
Judy: Project July is one of the highlights. I am a Gastroenterologist, so this is outside of my comfort zone, a challenge to my status quo and an adventurous journey with a friend.
What can’t you live without?
Kim: My family, dance, and positivity
Judy: A good coffee (double shot, mini flat white), this is my eye opener every morning.
Finish this sentence – You would never catch me wearing…
Kim: Never say never…
Judy: Frills and lace in pastel colours. On others it looks great but they’re not my cup of tea.
Images supplied.