our impact

Operations 

We challenge industry standards by taking full responsibility of our garments and their impacts from fibre to finish. We hope to minimise our impact by adopting circular economy principles, helping to create positive change within the fashion industry.

• Design

  To ensure the circularity of our garments, they are thoughtfully designed to transcend fleeting trends. We aim to increase longevity by selecting high-quality, durable materials. By selecting natural fibres, we can ensure items at end of life can be recycled or composted.

• Source

  The road to minimising unnecessary impact is paved with hurdles, with each collection holding its own set of challenges. Thanks to a network of carefully selected businesses, we can ensure our materials are sourced and products manufactured to international environmental and social standards.

• Manufacture

  Our garments are made in Tongxiang City, Zhejiang Province, China, benefiting from the region's well-established manufacturing expertise. We value transparency and responsible manufacturing, which is why our manufacturing facility undergoes regular audits conducted by Qualspec, a globally accredited specialist in textile industry standards. These audits ensure that our practices align with rigorous social responsibility criteria.

  While it is important to acknowledge the concerns associated with manufacturing in China, we actively address environmental impact through responsible sourcing, waste reduction, and sustainable practices. 

  We firmly believe in a living wage and ethical labor practices. Our workers are compensated above the national minimum wage, and we provide additional benefits such as overtime premiums and annual leave. Upholding these standards creates a positive work environment and supports the well-being of our valued employees.
  
  In line with our transparency standards, a full report by an independent body, 'QualSpec' can be provided upon request. Please email hello@olgajoan.co to submit your request.

• Educate

  We believe in sharing knowledge to inspire positive change and reduce environmental impact. Simple practices like washing garments less frequently and wearing them for longer periods, along with embracing circularity, can have a significant impact.

  Our Care Guide offers straightforward and practical guidance. It provides insights on extending garment lifespan, minimising waste, and contributing to a more circular economy. Explore our care guide here. 

Materials

We have chosen to use only botanical fibres and durable fabrics, thus ensuring minimal environmental impact and longevity in our garments. Our fabric supplier, Hemp Fortext, offers full traceability from fibre to finish. They have numerous certifications with internationally recognized bodies such as Fair Wear Foundation, Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) and Ecocert.

• Hemp

  Hemp is a fast-growing plant that requires very little water to grow. It helps to enrich the soil making it ideal for crop rotation. Hemp is naturally resistant to pests, meaning it requires no pesticides or herbicides in its farming. It’s stronger and more durable than cotton, giving items a longer life cycle. Hemp feels like new linen, softening with each wash and wear without losing its strength.

• GOTS Cotton

  Organic cotton helps to improve soil health as it is grown without the use of toxic pesticides and synthetic fertilisers. It increases water conservation as organic farming techniques are generally rain-fed, meaning less irrigation and less strain on water-scarce areas.

OTHER MATERIALS

• Garment Bags

  In line with our commitment to reduce impact, we have taken steps to eliminate the use of single-use plastic poly bags. Instead, we have transitioned to a compostable alternative, reducing our reliance on materials that contribute to environmental pollution.

• Branding

  Our woven main and printed care labels are made from 100% recycled polyester threads, ensuring their responsible sourcing and production. These labels carry the OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 certification, providing assurance of their quality and safety. We prioritise using materials that align with our commitment to ethical practices and environmental responsibility.

• Packaging

  Our paper bags are crafted in Australia using 100% recycled materials from post-consumer wastepapers. Our courier bags, supplied by The Better Packaging Co, are made from recycled Ocean bound Plastic pollution that has been collected from coastal communities in Southeast Asia. By using these bags, we aim to contribute to the reduction of plastic pollution and support initiatives that promote cleaner oceans and communities.