AYANI has direct contact with its pattern sewists and other individuals within its logistics and production fields. Since production occurs within Poland and Germany, AYANI can certify that a living wage is paid. AYANI focuses on nurturing long-term relationships and collaborations. The dress patterns are cut in-house, and regular trips are taken to the Polish garment factory, which is only two hours away from AYANI’s Berlin store. Regarding fibre-to-fabric production, AYANI relies on its strong relationship with its Turkish supplier. AYANI sources its fabric from only one supplier and annually donates to an impact-driven Armenian social or environmental charity.
AYANI rates as great in terms of materials, working with more sustainable and innovative materials that have a significantly lower impact on the planet, people and animals than conventional materials. The brand also uses fully recycled packaging materials for customer orders. In addition, within its supply chain, all plastic packaging and hangers are reused and reduced to a minimum through bulk packaging.
Since Ecovero Viscose and linen are used in more than 80% of its collection, high water efficiency and elimination of harmful chemicals throughout the fibre production process can be ensured. The Ecovero Viscose fabric is manufactured in Austria and sourced through the brand’s Turkish fabric supplier. Mechanically recycled GRS-certified polyester is used as much as possible within the brand’s use of plastic fibres. In addition, virgin polyester is part of the collection to ensure a degree of durability, comfort and material softness that cannot be met with fully recycled polyester. The buttons used are made of corozo nut and recycled cotton.
Customers are explicitly briefed on how to sustainably wash their dresses to minimise the risk of microplastic pollution.
AYANI has a strong circular approach to its design process, fabric sourcing and product life-cycle. The pattern cutter is educated on circular design principles and uses digital design tools to minimise waste. At the cutting table, material cut-offs are sorted precisely and supplied to local upcycling projects. Although the fabrics are not monomaterials, they are predominantly recyclable. Repair services are free of charge to customers, or AYANI reimburses customers when repairs are locally made.
Apart from its Turkish fabric supplier, all other production processes occur within two hours of each other. The garment factory is based in Szczecin, Poland, and the store is in Berlin.
The brand uses no animal fibres in its dresses.
Creating only two collections per year, AYANI selects singular items to go on sale. The timeless dresses are produced in small quantities and on demand. With the proper care and occasional repairs, the robust fabrics designed for daily use ensure that the dresses can last for decades.
AYANI is a woman-led, singularly owned company founded by Ani Bagdasaryan, who is involved in– and leads all production and communication processes. From finding collaborators to building her socially responsible business, the small brand can transparently disclose all information regarding production and sourcing. In addition, Ani is constantly searching for ways to improve her brand’s ecological footprint and social impact.
Conclusion
If you are looking for a consciously-designed, timeless dress that is responsibly produced with the well-being of garment workers at the brand’s core, then AYANI is an ideal choice! Although the brand uses plastic fabrics in its collection, Ani continues searching for equally durable, crease-free natural materials that meet her customer’s demands.
