PRODUCTION LOCATIONS
- Vietnam
- Portugal
- Turkey
WORKING CONDITIONS & LIVING WAGES
Arber Studio provides an overview of their production locations on their website. Their blouses are produced at their own atelier in Vietnam, where the brand states that they ensure fair working conditions, and a salary that is 20 percent higher than the local standard. They also mention that the factory is certified by the BSCI (Business Social Compliance Initiative), which audits the working conditions at the factory.
Arber Studio’s knitwear is also produced at a BSCI-certified factory in Portugal. Their t‑shirts are produced in factories in Turkey, which is a member of Sedex.
MATERIALS
- Viscose
- Linen
- Cotton
- Organic cotton
- Merino wool
- Stretch
- Elastane
Arber Studio predominantly uses plant-based materials, although these are not always certified. All their garments are primarily viscose, linen, cotton, or wool, and their viscose is certified LENZING wood pulp. Organic cotton is sometimes used, although Arber Studio does not state certifications on their website. Arber Studio also uses fabric residues for some garments, which prevents excess waste from being generated.
PACKAGING
Arber Studio does not disclose what packaging materials are used in their supply chain.
WATER USAGE & CHEMICALS
Arber Studio provides washing instructions for their garments, and recommends the use of a laundry bag so that they will last longer. Their website states that they aim to reduce their environmental footprint, but does not provide information on water or chemical usage.
CIRCULAR PRODUCT DESIGN
All of Arber Studio’s t‑shirts are 100% viscose, whilst their jumpers are 100% merino wool, and some of their blouses are 100% linen. These garments are easier to recycle, and therefore less likely to generate waste at the end of their lifespan.
However, the majority of Arber Studio’s blouses are produced from material blends. For example, their Laurel and Cedar blouses are produced with primarily plant-based materials, with a small percentage of elastane or stretch material. Other blouses are 55% linen, and 45% cotton.
CIRCULAR BUSINESS MODELS
Arber Studio does not currently have any circular business model strategies in place. Their website does however state that they aim to work in very small numbers, minimising waste in the supply chain.
DISTANCE & COMPLEXITY OF THE SUPPLY CHAIN
Production locations:
- Vietnam
- Portugal
- Turkey
Given the small scale of Arber Studio, they have a relatively simple supply chain. Their blouses are produced at their own atelier in Vietnam, their knitwear in Portugal, and their t‑shirts in Turkey. Arber Studio’s website states that in their facilities in Turkey, all production takes place in-house, from sampling and cutting to finishing.
Arber Studio headquarters are located in the Netherlands. Worldwide shipping is available.
TRANSPORTATION
Arber Studio’s website does not provide information on transportation within their supply chain or for e‑commerce.
- Merino Wool
The sourcing of merino wool is often associated with the controversial practice of mulesing, in which a portion of the sheep’s skin is removed to deter harmful larvae infestations. Arber Studio’s website states that their wool is guaranteed to be certified mulesing-free.
PRODUCT DESIGN
Arber Studio focuses on producing timeless, contemporary wear, that goes beyond trends or seasons. They offer a small selection of women’s blouses, t‑shirts, and jumpers; all monochrome and minimalist in design.
SLOW FASHION PROCESSES
Arber Studio produces on a small scale to minimise levels of waste. As their blouses are made in their own atelier, if an item is out of stock, consumers may request that it be made to order. Additionally, if consumers would prefer a blouse made from one of their alternative fabrics, this can also be requested!
TRANSPARENCY ON PRODUCT
Material composition information is available on every product page. Consumers can also easily access Arber Studio’s production page, for information on all their facilities.
TRANSPARENCY ON PROCESSES
Although Arber Studio does not publish an annual report on the social or environmental aspects of their brand, they provide information on their processes and suppliers through their website. Due to the small scale of the brand, traceability for each product is accessible to consumers.
Conclusion
If you’re looking to refresh your wardrobe with premium and more sustainable basics, Arber Studio might be perfect for you! With a primary focus on plant-based materials, they aim to reduce their environmental impact whilst providing soft and comfortable garments. Arber Studio is also committed to small-scale production in certified facilities, and even offers made to order blouses from their own atelier!
Discover where to shop Arber Studio on the map below–