Meet our friend and model - Julie Hong

We've been reflecting on the last six months since launching and thought it's important to keep a journal on all the amazing things we've had going on, whether it be behind the scenes, public announcements or what's coming up.

To kick it off, we thought what better way, then to go back to our very first campaign - 'Day Dreaming and I'm think of you' with our wonderful model, Julie Hong, to talk through what the campaign experience was like and the major news that followed it!

Julie Hong in our Dromen Tassel Jacket, Os So Essential Tank and Weekend Pant. Captured by Angelique Sloss, Parramatta location.

 

I want to take you back to August 2025 when we did our first photoshoot. Can you talk us through that day and everything that was going on?

This was a special experience for me and it was really fun to shoot. That day was honestly such a whirlwind…. BUT in the best way. The vibes were immaculate from the second I arrived. It really all came together and the OST pieces looked insane in real life.

We ran through the looks, I tried everything and instantly felt so great and so comfortable. I was wearing the 'Dromen Tassel Jacket', 'Oh So Essential Tank' and 'Weekend Pants' (hemmed on the spot because I'm a short queen IRL).

The team had some great pose references, they knew exactly what they wanted, and made me feel like part of the family straight away. The whole day just flowed… just fun, easy, chaotic but in a cute way. I even learnt about facts about the City of Parramatta and more childhood stories from the founder than I ever expected.

We wrapped up in this cool heritage inspired location with tropical palms (of course) and gorgeous sandstone textures. Honestly, it was such a special experience and so fun to shoot.

 

What are 3 key things that stood out from it?

The clothes - OST just hits different. Effortless and elevated that's brought to life in all the little details.

The energy - Everyone brought the hype and was so supportive.

The location - It literally was the OST mood board.

 

You're a designer, so not usually in front of the lens. How did it feel jumping out of your comfort zone?

Low-key terrifying at first. I was so nervous, because I'm usually hiding behind a laptop stressing about Pantone colours and working behind the scenes, not actually having to be in front of a camera. But once we started shooting, I was like, "Okay wait… this is actually fine." It pulled me out of my little creative bubble in the best way.

 

Fast-forward to October… When I broke the news that OST was going to be featured in the Designer Profiles for British Vogue. What was going through your mind?

A huge moment for OST… I mean VOGUE, so iconic!

I was beyond happy! It just filled me with so much joy knowing what a huge moment it was for OST and for the founder, Angelique. Not to mention, OST has only launched a few months ago, so this is a huge milestone achieved in such a short amount of time!

It felt so well-deserved. Angelique has poured so much of herself into OST, you can see and feel her whole journey woven through it. Seeing her work recognised on a platform like British Vogue means everything and I will remember it forever.

 

Us being in British Vogue meant you were going to be in British Vogue. What was going through your head when you realised that?

I was completely speechless… I think I was a bit delulu to be honest! It was one of those moments where you want to cry of happiness, but you sit in silence and just process everything in your entire life in that exact moment. I felt so honoured and so grateful for Angelique to trust me in her vision to bring OST to life. This was a really special experience for me and to have this surprise element to it, especially for a magazine like British Vogue, will be one of the most incredible experiences I'll ever have.

I picked up my two-year-old son, Dusty, from daycare after hearing the news, I told him in the car on the way home, knowing he would have no idea what I was going on about. He did a sweet little laugh and went 'oh woahhhhh'… it was the best I could ever hope for.

That night I spent the night as a typical Taurus, indulging in some good food with my partner Blake and Dusty, watching movies and vibing to SWAG. At one point I just kinda stared at the wall thinking to myself… "You're going to be in British Vogue. Insane."

If you didn't grab a copy, you can find it on our social media here.

December 2025 issue of British Vogue Oh So Troppy featured in.

 

Knowing the Founder and seeing the level of enthusiasm that's gone into sharing OST with the world — what does OST mean to you?

Knowing the heart behind the brand adds an extra layer of authenticity that makes OST truly special. I've been lucky enough to witness parts of the process of bringing OST to life, and people don't realise how much goes into building something this special… the late nights, the risks, the relentless persistence. Angelique pours her whole heart into every tiny detail, and it shows. I'm genuinely so proud of what she's created. The creative vision is unmatched… truly everything you wish your Pinterest mood board could be.

When I'm wearing OST, it feels like I'm stepping into the best version of myself - confident, intentional and a little bit extra. It represents a whole mood, that unmistakable feeling of being exactly where you're meant to be. It's luxurious in the way of living life the way you want to life it, taking the splurge and just choosing yourself.

 

Do you have any tips for living a "troppy" life?

  • Romanticise your life, even the boring bits.
  • Say yes to mini adventures even if it's just going to a sunset spot.
  • Comfort is key, you feel best in what you're the most comfortable in.
  • Keep your circle fun, not fake.
  • Be a little extra, life's too short.
  • Pause.

 

Mini getaways are part of your balance to life. Where's next on your wish-list of destinations?

I feel like a Euro Summer, Spain or France is calling me, but I'll never say no to a tropical paradise with pristine beaches and a cocktail in hand. Japan is on my list for the culture and vintage finds. South Africa for the wildlife adventures and of course, New York will always have my heart. it's iconic, has a complete buzz and energy about it, and the fashion? Chef's Kiss!

 

As a designer, any hot tips on how to style OST pieces? What's trending and what's coming up?

Effortless silhouettes paired with one statement accessory - that's the sweet spot.

Sheer layers – Layering is the moment. Use soft and flowing sheer pieces and style a see-through slip dress or skirt with the OST Tees.

Scarf belts – This summer's must have accessory. Wear a silk scarf as a belt around your waist layered over pants or dresses.

Fringing – Fringe detail is everywhere. The 'Dromen Tassel Jacket' is the perfect elevated statement piece with the fun tassel applique that speaks to this.

Asymmetric - The 'Drop Me Your Pin' is a great way to customise and wear the asymmetric shirt trend. Simply wrap one side of the shirt over and pin!

Coastal aesthetics - Shells are big! I'm loving the 'Mermaid Tank', it's a huge summer vibe. Pair with a cute mini, layer some resin jewellery, and sandals to complete the whole vacay vibe.

 

What are your top 3 pieces from the first collection?

DROMEN TASSEL JACKET - she is really the moment. We love her. The tassel detail is really something!

OH SO ORCHID EARRING - the ultimate statement piece to complete any outfit.

HOOLAHA RUFFLE SHIRT - honestly so versatile and endless options.

Image 1 Image 2 Image 3