An ode to color from nature: dyeing clothing with natural dyes

More and more people are discovering the magic of natural dyeing. Whether you want to breathe new life into a worn garment or consciously choose more sustainable fashion, plant-based dyes offer a beautiful, eco-friendlier alternative to synthetic dyes. This age-old technique is making a strong comeback, with modern makers connecting craftsmanship, innovation and nature.

But what are natural dyes? And why should you choose them? Read on to learn more about this way of dyeing textiles and which designers are already working with it. + some tips to get started yourself!

What are natural dyes?

Natural dyes are derived from plants, flowers, bark, roots, leaves and even food scraps. Think of madder, indigo plants, onion skins and avocado pits. But dyes can also be obtained from materials like iron. By boiling and extracting these materials, a vibrant dye bath is created in which textiles take on a unique colour. It’s also important to choose natural fibres such as cotton, wool and silk, as synthetic fabrics absorb the dye less effectively. Because colours react to variables like temperature, time and material, every dyed piece is truly one of a kind.

Why choose clothing dyed with natural dyes?

Plant-dyed clothing is not only better for the environment, but also for your skin and overall health. Natural pigments contain no harmful chemicals and are produced with a much lower ecological impact. These colours also tell a story: they age in a beautiful, organic way and give garments a characterful, warm appearance. By choosing naturally dyed textiles, you also support artisans and brands that are working towards a fairer and more circular fashion system.

Natural dyed clothing in your wardrobe

Whether you want to start experimenting yourself, do a workshop or look for plant-dyed fashion, there are inspiring makers in the Netherlands, Belgium and Germany who place this sustainable dyeing technique at the heart of their work. COSH! brings them together so you can effortlessly explore the world of natural dyes.

Plant-dyed clothing, workshops and more: here’s where to go

Roua Atelier

Natural dyeing with indigo and more in Amsterdam

Roua Atelier is known for its modern approach to natural dyes. In her atelier in Amsterdam, workshops are offered where you learn to dye with plants, flowers, food scraps and other natural pigments such as iron. Roua also collaborates with forward-thinking brands like Joline Jolink, RE-GARDE and New Optimist to make plant-dyed fashion more accessible for consumers. Her atelier is a creative hub for anyone who wants to explore colour from nature.

LOADS Collection

Biodynamic textiles from the Netherlands

The Dutch company LOADS Collection works with biodynamic textiles and plant-based dyes. They connect agriculture, craftsmanship and fashion, producing clothing entirely in harmony with nature. The fabrics are dyed with locally harvested plants and herbs, making each collection an authentic reflection of the Dutch landscape.

ILANGA

Natural dyeing with food waste in Amsterdam

ILANGA transforms food waste into high-quality natural pigments. The Amsterdam studio demonstrates that beauty can emerge from leftovers by turning avocado pits, vegetable peels and more into dyes. The result is warm, earthy colours used by both makers and fashion designers. ILANGA stands for circularity and creative innovation.

Studio WOUW

Natural dyeing with home-grown flowers in Ghent

Studio WOUW is a plant-dye studio in Ghent that is entirely dedicated to the art of natural dyeing. You can join workshops, explore natural pigments and get started at home with their carefully curated DIY kits. The studio places a strong emphasis on local harvesting and seasonal colours, making each project an ode to nature. An inspiring place for makers and fashion-conscious consumers alike.

Dainty Dystopia

Natural dyeing with plants and flowers in Aaken

Dainty Dystopia creates clothing naturally dyed in soft colours ranging from pastels to deep earth tones. In addition to their ready-to-wear pieces, they offer workshops and DIY kits, allowing you to explore the world of plant-based dyeing yourself. Their playful and artistic approach makes natural dyeing both accessible and inspiring for beginners and advanced learners alike.

Tessa Stetter

Workshops for natural dyeing in Hamburg

In Hamburg, Tessa Stetter creates beautiful plant-dyed textiles and shares her knowledge through accessible workshops. Her work combines craftsmanship with modern design, showcasing how rich and versatile natural dyes can be. The workshops invite participants to experiment with local plants and leftover materials, offering a creative way to engage with sustainable fashion.

Abelone Wilhelmsen

Naturally dyed clothing with fungi from Antwerp

The Antwerp fashion brand Abelone Wilhelmsen incorporates natural dyes into a timeless, minimalist collection. Her garments are dyed with plant-based pigments, such as flowers and innovative fungi, resulting in subtle, elegant colours. The designs exude calm and sophistication, showing how natural dyes can have a luxurious appeal. An ideal destination for those seeking more sustainable slow fashion.

Studio Rosa

Natural dyeing on second-hand textiles from Düsseldorf

Studio Rosa breathes new life into worn textiles with the color of nature. In her Düsseldorf studio, second-hand garments are carefully selected and redyed with plant-based pigments. This creates a collection that is both circular and aesthetic: unique pieces with soft, natural hues and a story that extends beyond fashion. Studio Rosa shows how sustainable design and creativity can go hand in hand, and how cool it can be to make your wardrobe more sustainable by making conscious choices.