Common People

Grey Sheep

commonpeoplestudios

Location

Wanaka / new zealand

Main Manufacturing Countries

china

Common People is A bag and accessories brand based in Wanaka, New Zealand, founded in 2017 by Designer and Director, Jodie Calder.

The brands unique collections embrace a sense of individuality which inspires their artistic and sometimes crazy aesthetic. Pairing this creative approach with minimalistic and versatile designs, the aim is to not only inspire their following, but also to provide a sophisticated and practical solution to the everyday urbanite.

Common People has been built on the values of self-direction, self-belief, independent thought and action. The freedom to choose, create and explore. To challenge societal norms and use fashion as a vehicle to empower people and influence change.

Latest Collection

Brakes Off.

“Have you ever had that ‘sink or swim’ feeling? When you feel the weight of the world beating at your door and you have to choose between two directions. The one that’s effortless and predictable, or the one that’s less travelled and unknown but may just be the one that takes you to a higher place? Decisions. Deeecisions. To sink is easy. Releasing all control to the world and water around you, letting go of your inhibitions, relaxing your body and releasing your breath until you slowly start to melt into the water beneath you. To surrender and give up any effort. You can take comfort knowing the road ahead and where you’ll end up. To swim takes effort. The patience to learn, the courage to get in the water, the commitment and persistence to propel yourself forward, and the belief that you’ll eventually arrive at your destination (or at least some form of land). Wind and waves will challenge you but they also present you with the opportunity to change course. Whichever way you go, you know you’ll arrive stronger. Life is full of adversity, it’ll shit on you at a moments notice and have no remorse. So do you choose to sink or swim? Is it that easy to decide? No. Sometimes one of the toughest decisions you’ll make and the choice won’t come knocking just the once. I had this feeling after losing my father suddenly and now being one of many businesses (and humans) that find themselves thrust into a global pandemic. As seductive as sinking can be, this time I chose to swim. To take a breath. To release the fear. To trust my direction. To propel forward. To take the BRAKES OFF.”

- Jodie Calder, Founder and Designer

The collection consisting of structured totes, briefcases, saddle bags, belt bags, cross- body bags and silk scarves uses bold and solid colours with a running theme of cobalt blue contrasting against ice whites, solid blacks and greys. In classic Common People style, the use of contrasting materials such as leather, acrylic chains and thick nylon straps is apparent more than ever.

Using a female model in a masculine style it challenges the notion that fashion is gender defined; it embraces gender equality and encourages individuality.

View the full look book: bit.ly/brakesoff

Previous collections

Brakes Off