Our People: Madi Cooper. she/her

Our People: Madi Cooper. she/her

Thanks again for supporting Koha Apparel and quite literally putting your body on the line. While you're not pulling a blue-steel look for Koha Apparel, what might we find you doing? I work in comms (PR and Marketing) during the day and then work on my own business/app in the evening. I also try to help Koha out as much as possible.

What made you want to volunteer your time with Koha Apparel? I met Charli through Jessie, Koha is an amazing cause and is trying to fight an issue that has been a massive problem in New Zealand for a long time. I couldn’t help Koha out when and as they need it, it’s good to fight for a good cause and alongside great people.

What were some of your favourite pieces from our 'new season'? Favourite pieces from the shoot are probably the beige suede jacket, it was super lightweight and warm - perfect for winter and the grey cropped sweater, super comfortable but still looks great!

What would you say to encourage others to shop more sustainability?
Honestly, ignore what the “trends” are and why maybe in “fashion” if you shop for your own style you end up creating a timeless wardrobe where you don’t feel the need to buy more and more every season. Buying second hand is an amazing way to get investment pieces and staples for a lower price and you are also reducing the environmental impact of the fashion industry. The e-commerce site is going to be a game-changer because you can do all that whilst supporting an incredible organisation (Koha). I tend to only buy new for investment pieces I know will last a lifetime. 

What are some of your favourite places to shop?
I mainly live in Op shops these days; I’d say my top three are Tattys and Smoove for second hand and I’m a sucker for homewares so I often pop into Flotsam and Jetsam. If I’m buying new I try to stick with NZ brands and/or sustainable made like Wynn Hamlyn and Rachel Mills to name a couple.