Use of cotton

Cotton is the most widely used fiber in the world, and its production is responsible for major environmental and social challenges. However, 100 percent cotton doesn’t have to mean 100 percent problematic.

Organic Cotton

– This is why you will find several cotton products labeled with GOTS or Fairtrade certifications, says Nils Thomas, Senior Quality Assurance Specialist at Varner.

At a time when everyone needs to take action to ensure a more sustainable future, the clothing industry is definitely no exception. This is why Dressmann is committed to giving you the opportunity to be a conscious clothing consumer – without it having to cost a fortune.

How Raw Materials are Certified

The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) is the world’s leading production standard for textiles made from certified organically produced raw materials.

– It requires that farmers do not use harmful chemicals in cotton cultivation. In textile production, there is a ban on the use of toxic chemicals, and all wastewater in production must be treated. GOTS also sets social requirements for workers’ rights regarding health and safety standards, the right to organize, minimum wage, overtime, non-discrimination policies, and much more.

Did you know that in addition to our investment in GOTS-certified "Man Underwear," with all "Classic Boxershorts" in 1 and 4 packs, all of our 5-pocket cotton pants and all chinos are also produced with GOTS certification?

Collaboration with Fairtrade

Dressmann has been collaborating with Fairtrade since 2017, and in 2018 became the world’s largest fashion player in Fairtrade cotton. All Basic t-shirts, 4-pack socks, and jeans in the Ohio and Montana series are made from Fairtrade cotton.

– Fairtrade is an international organization that sets strict standards for how raw materials are handled, with expectations for safe working conditions for people and environmental protection. Fairtrade enables more sustainable farming and a better life for farmers and workers in Africa, Asia, and Latin America, says Nils Thomas and continues:

– Dressmann buys Fairtrade cotton, which means the cotton comes from farms that receive support in transitioning to more sustainable production with reduced chemical use and help in dealing with changing climate patterns. At the same time, health and safety are ensured, and the farmers are properly compensated for their products.

The Fairtrade certification indicates that a product's cotton content is made from raw cotton that has been produced and traded fairly. Additionally, it is directly traceable through all stages of production and separated from non-Fairtrade cotton during processing.

Dressmann is committed to ensuring that all cotton is 100% "more sustainable cotton" by 2025. More sustainable cotton includes cotton purchased through Better Cotton, Fairtrade cotton, or certified organic or recycled cotton.

Learn more about how Varner and Dressmann are working towards more sustainable production, employee welfare, and safe supply chains on Varner’s website. If you have further questions, you can send an email to the sustainability department at [email protected].