Breeze of Post Sole Studio &
ODE Collective
Breeze is a New Zealand born creative shoemaker. She runs Post Sole Studio from her Abbotsford studio, alongside her more recent project ODE collective. PSS is committed to making shoes locally and sustainably with made to order and customisations whilst striving to keep the Australian shoe industry alive.
Recently Breeze ( along side Maddy of FME apparel ) launched ODE collective store. The idea came from a desire for connection and community at a time where bricks and mortar faced challenges post covid. United by their shared values of ethical production, considered design, and a commitment to keeping local slow fashion alive, they decided to create a beautiful curated space to call home.
Images by Lara Cooper.
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I am a co-founder of P.S.S, and am deeply passionate about what I do. Originally from NZ, but I have lived in Australia for a long time now, so I consider myself almost half-and-half. I grew up mostly in small towns, went to a Steiner school, and have 4 younger siblings (meaning I've been the boss since the beginning!) My family is extremely innovative and inspiring, we have always created things. Making with others is one of my favourite things! And and and... I'm also the creator of the @noodle_omellete account, my favourite 10-minute meal I've been making for my family since my teenage years.
How would you describe P.S.S and the work you do?
P.S.S is my baby! It was once a baby I co-parented with Myra Spencer, but now I’m the one changing the nappies... But on a serious note, P.S.S was born out of our love for shoemaking and a strong desire to sustain the local industry. We invested in machines and materials that would have otherwise been shipped offshore, and we prioritised comfort and quality in our shoe designs. P.S.S is coming up to its 10-year birthday, and I'm so proud to be still working at it.
"I find inspiration in problem-solving and exploring solutions when I hit road bumps. Overcoming challenges fuels my creativity and stimulates new ideas."
How are things evolving in 2024 for your shoe business?
Things have been very different for me as of late. As mentioned above, P.S.S co-founder Myra Spencer has recently left the company to move onto other things and I'm now in charge, which is a huge change. Recently we've had some supply chain issues and work has been all-consuming, but there are many things I’m learning and discovering about myself. I'm incredibly excited about the direction P.S.S is taking!
Can you tell us a little about Ode Collective and how it came about?
Ode Collective was founded in conjunction with FME and P.S.S. We wanted to create a space where we could provide face-to-face customer service and connect with our community. But we have some exciting changes in the works (and you're hearing it here first!) For our 10th anniversary in April, P.S.S will be officially taking over the store. Rest assured, the core concept and community-focused ideals of the store will remain intact. Stay tuned!
Where do you look for inspiration?
I find inspiration in problem-solving and exploring solutions when I hit road bumps. Overcoming challenges fuels my creativity and stimulates new ideas.
Current favourite artist/maker?
This is a really hard one for me. I'm constantly finding a new favourite artists and makers. I spend a lot of time searching for brands to stock in the store, and I’m constantly impressed at people's creativity - it never ceases to surprise me how many projects are being launched all the time. Some of my favourite artists are friends and the people I work with and share our studio with!
What is one of your essential daily rituals?
Always a FaceTime with a special someone - everyone who knows me, knows I love a phone chat!
Any new hobbies?
I'm pretty into bircher muesli this week? Ha. Honestly, when you're my age and you have ADHD you've already tried everything. I have been sewing some weird stuff onto other weird stuff and making "clothes" for myself.
Where is a place you would love to return to?
Home to the Hawkes Bay, NZ, with my family. I really miss the stoney beach where I grew up, the sound of the waves crashing into the shore.
What is your favourite item of VT clothing to wear?
The white Organic Classic Tee is my go-to! It's incredibly versatile, I wear it on its own and often layer it under singlets, vests, and dresses. I like to have one in a small fit for layering and a larger one for an oversized look.
See more of Breeze's work here.
https://www.postsole.com/
https://www.odecollective.com.au/
