Today we’d like to introduce you to Mary Kay & Kim Bowden & Wilson.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Our journey began with a shared desire to create something that felt personal, meaningful, and enduring. As twins, we’ve always approached creativity collaboratively, and 11 Juillet grew out of that partnership and a desire to redefine what luxury could represent.
We spent years developing the brand quietly through researching materials, refining designs, and building relationships with master artisans in Italy, before ever bringing a product to market. That intentional foundation allowed us to launch with clarity and confidence, rooted in craftsmanship and purpose rather than trend. Today, 11 Juillet represents the culmination of that journey: a brand built on heritage techniques, thoughtful design, and pieces meant to be treasured for a lifetime
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Building 11 Juillet has been incredibly rewarding, but it has certainly not been effortless. One of our biggest challenges was choosing a made-to-order model in a market driven by immediacy and fast fashion consumption. It required educating both partners and clients that the quality of goods, individuality, and longevity matter not just aesthetically, but culturally and environmentally.
Our made-to-order approach is inherently anti–fast fashion. This model also allows us to offer a high level of customization across both our handbags and fine jewelry, creating pieces that feel truly personal rather than mass-produced.
Ultimately, these challenges reinforced our values and shaped 11 Juillet into a brand rooted in intention where luxury is defined by craftsmanship, meaning, and mindful creation rather than speed.
We’ve been impressed with 11 Juillet, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Our work centers on creating timeless pieces that feel deeply personal, objects that reflect both artistry and meaning. What we are most proud of is our ability to bridge fine jewelry and leather goods in a cohesive way, particularly through our signature Éclat de Joie emblem. The idea that a client can carry one emblem across multiple bags, allowing the collection to evolve with them, is something that truly sets us apart. It transforms luxury from something static into something living and personal.
Any big plans?
Looking ahead, we’re focused on continuing to build 11 Juillet thoughtfully and intentionally. We’re excited to expand our collections in ways that feel natural to the brand exploring new silhouettes, colorways, and expressions of our signature motifs while maintaining our made-to-order approach that’s foundational to the brand. For us, the future isn’t about rapid growth, it’s about building a legacy.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://11juillet.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/11juilletofficial/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/11-Juillet/61562865489478/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/11juilletofficial/
