FASHTALKS WITH PEOPLE LIKE US

What is your earliest design memory for your brand?

To be honest, I've been creating all my life, visualizing, making forms, drawing... The first piece of People Like Us was silk kimono with gold handprint. It was created in Berlin, at a party. I remember it was a beautiful day and everything was very inspiring, people, music, the smell of spring, and art... I came back from Bali and looked at the people around me in Berlin, and it just came out to me. Silk kimono with gold on the back – I knew it, that's it. The feeling that overwhelmed me since that day has not let me go, it's that feeling inside when we know we're doing the right thing.

What is the story behind the name of your brand?

The name People Like Us came about when my friend Kim Fisher and I sat in a coffee shop where we watched and met wonderful new people, inspiring women - goddesses... Then we came up with the idea of creating an online platform, Kim said, “…for people, you know for people…” and I just completed her thought, “…for people like us.” A very simple, but deep name, but also the way of its origin. Because at that moment, I wanted to give support and share ideas, thoughts, and lifestyle with all those who recognize it and want the same.

Where do you find inspiration?

Ahh, everywhere. Inside and outside. Life is a great inspiration to me. Steps, processes, harmonization of male and female energy. Smells, colors, conversations with people, going into yourself. Mistakes, victories, exploits. All that needs to be given time, attention and meaning.

“The pieces that we design are there to remind a woman that there is gold in her. Each piece has a gold detail as a daily reminder. That's why our pieces are timeless and serve as a charm.”

Do you have a favorite piece that you have designed? 

I love them all because they are very wearable, and I wear them all the time. Maybe a kimono or a kimono jacket, although I also wear a sweatshirt. Each piece is handmade, of the highest quality materials, with special attention, each one has its charm and carries its own story behind it. That's why they are unique. And then when I remember the complete process of their creation, how many hours, ideas, and thoughts were spent, then it gains even more value for me. But if I had to single out one piece, it would be the silk gold kimono.

What was your previous work experience before launching your brand?

I have rich previous work experience. I worked for 15 years in the production and organization of Belgrade fashion week, festivals, and business events. I learned a lot from that experience. That gave me an additional incentive to dedicate myself to my brand in the right way and recognize in myself what I really want.

How would you describe the style you aim for your brand?

The first thing I think of is the casualness of the pieces, and on the other hand, the sharp form. I like the combination of casualness and sharpness in my pieces. The style is simple and rich.

What brand values are the most important for People Like Us?

The value of life, living, love, work, goals, and desires. The value of everyone going deep into themselves, asking themselves questions, finding their own path, their gold within themselves, what will lead them further. The value of slowing down, giving real, not quick answers.

What sets your brand apart from the rest?

The message we send and live by, which is finding your golden thread in yourself as a conscious woman full of love. The pieces that we design are there to remind a woman that there is gold in her. Each piece has a gold detail as a daily reminder. That's why our pieces are timeless and serve as a charm.

“Our motto is: buy less but invest in quality. Love your pieces, wear them often is a sentence that spreads awareness to our audience.”

What were some hurdles you had to overcome in your business?

My mind is set on creativity, awareness, spirituality, leaving a message in the world, and creating out of love. I encountered obstacles on how to combine all that into a business model. Then, I took a business mentor and things started to fall into place, I consciously approached business, learned a lot, struggled in the process, and sometimes enjoyed it, but in the end, I believe that I combined the spiritual and the material.

What is the one piece of advice you would give to a new designer?

I believe that everyone who ventures into this industry does it out of love and pure talent, my advice is to learn from every step you come across, to master every lesson along the way, to make a small system for yourself from each lesson that will serve you and, of course, to never gives up.

How does sustainability play a role in your brand?

We are a slow fashion brand; therefore, we are sustainable, we take care of materials, and consumption, i.e., waste when I create a new piece. The working conditions for our wonderful women who work with us are at a high standard and everything is done organically, with a lot of love and respect.

What sustainable measures has People Like Us taken to better the environment?

We create timeless pieces that can be worn for decades, also we use natural packaging. Our motto is: buy less but invest in quality. Love your pieces, wear them often is a sentence that spreads awareness to our audience.

How has the fashion industry changed since you first started out?

Many small brands have emerged that are original and have their own story and authenticity in expression, so much so that giant brands are inspired by us smaller ones. I am extremely happy about that, and I am very proud of it.

If you could go back and tell yourself one thing before beginning your career, what would it be? 

Girl, it is not easy, you will need faith, strong faith for this journey. A clear mind, an open heart, and just go forward.

What should consumers expect to see next from People Like Us?

Magic through the collection we are currently working on. Casual, silky, soft, sexy, gentle, and comfortable pieces, which give strength, inspiration, and support for women to open themselves, look deep within themselves, and see the gold that is waiting for them to start their path of brilliance. Stay tuned.

What is the most important thing you would like your brand to be recognized for?

Honestly, I would most like the brand to be recognized for encouraging women to find their strength and shine from within, and the People Like Us pieces are there to remind them of that.