Zarah Juan

Zarah Juan is a Philippine brand of handcrafted bags, shoes and accessories founded by Zarah Juan. It works with indigenous weavers and craft communities across the Philippines and sells through a flagship store in Makati and online.

What is Zarah Juan?

Zarah Juan is a Filipino accessories label founded by Zarah Juan, a former flight attendant. The brand describes its products as proudly Filipino and handcrafted, and its founder has been recognised with an APEC award for the most innovative business model.

History

Juan's interest in reusable bags began around 2005, and in 2007 she and her husband registered Green Leaf Ecobags. Her early bags were made from katsa fabric before she shifted to local textiles, wicker, hand embroidery and leather sourced from craft communities around the country.

Products and positioning

The label's woven and embroidered pieces include bag styles such as the Transistor, Paso, Aklat and Paraluman, mules, Abubot bag charms made partly from Inabel offcuts and a gift range. It works with communities including:

• Bagobo Tagabawa weavers in Davao for wicker bags
• T'boli embroiderers in Lake Sebu, South Cotabato
• Basket weavers from the Iraya Mangyan and in Abra and other regions
• Shoemakers in Marikina and woodcarvers in Paete

Distribution

Zarah Juan sells through its flagship store at Power Plant Mall in Makati City, its online store and social channels.

Why it matters

The brand links contemporary accessory design with indigenous craft, providing work for artisan communities and promoting Filipino textiles in a premium retail setting.

Frequently asked questions

Who is behind the Zarah Juan brand?

The brand was founded by Zarah Juan, a former flight attendant who builds handcrafted bags with Filipino artisan communities.

What does Zarah Juan sell?

Zarah Juan sells handwoven and embroidered bags, shoes, bag charms and gift items.

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