Everlane, a self-proclaimed arbiter of “radical transparency” in the apparel industry, is taking steps toward more sustainable textile manufacturing practices. The brand, which launched in 2011 with a revolutionary message about material and supply chain trace-ability, is now partnering with Bluesign, a textile production-focused auditing body. The organization works with brands and manufacturers to improve operations throughout their supply chains. Bluesign’s standards were developed in the interest of providing safe consumer products, reducing the impact of manufacturing on people and the environment, and promoting the responsible use of resources, according to the organization’s website. As a subscriber to the Bluesign System, Everlane’s textile production partners are subject to the group’s independent verification program.
Saitex, the brand’s Vietnam-based sustainable denim producer, is already a Bluesign partner. The leader in fair-trade denim manufacturing uses only certified chemicals in its wash processes. J.Crew was the latest high-profile brand to sign on with Saitex this year, joining the ranks of G-Star Raw, Eileen Fisher, Outerknown, Madewell and other household names.
Everlane’s Clean Silk collection is also being produced by a Bluesign-certified silk manufacturer. In a statement, Everlane claimed that all silk produced by the factory will be dyed and washed with 100 per cent recycled water and 100 per cent renewable energy by 2022. In October of 2018, Everlane announced that it would remove all virgin plastic from its supply chain by 2021.
“Everlane is rooted in transparency and we have always been mindful of our impact on the environment through the materials and processes we use,” said Kimberley Smith, the brand’s General Manager of Apparel. “Partnering with Bluesign will ensure that we are working with the cleanest materials possible and advancing toward reducing our environmental impact. Together, we can lead the change towards an honest and sustainable supply chain,” she said.
“I have watched Everlane evolve over the years and am impressed by their practice of radical transparency, which aligns perfectly with the Blue Way,” added Jill Dumain, CEO of Bluesign Technologies.
