CLAU-D’s commitment to ethical production is deeply embedded in its operations, with all items being handmade within their integrated atelier in Arnhem. Claudia Träumer and her small, skilled team craft each piece with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring high quality and unique style. The localisation of their production and sourcing of materials not only allows for tight oversight of manufacturing processes but also supports the local economy. The proximity of all operations to CLAU‑D’s headquarters ensures adherence to EU regulations, which are known for strict guidelines on ethical workplace practices.
The entire collection is produced and therefore handmade in the atelier in Arnhem, by Claudia and a small team.
CLAU‑D emphasizes their sustainability efforts by only using high-end deadstock fabrics from luxury brands and its own leftover materials, avoiding any new fabric purchases until they finish the stock they already have. The brand also prevents waste through annual fabric sales and by redesigning unsold garments. While primarily using natural materials like wool, cotton, and viscose for their biodegradable nature, some designs incorporate elastane to ensure comfort across all sizes. CLAU‑D does not use any chemicals or dyes, avoiding any potential toxicity of the chemicals towards the user or the environment. The brand also uses recycled paper for packaging, all plastic free.
CLAU‑D practices circular fashion by using only deadstock materials and redesigning unsold garments into new ones, giving materials and garments new life. However, the use of material blends with elastane complicates recycling, as separating these materials is challenging. Despite this, the brand’s commitment to reusing fabrics and extending the life of each garment underlines its dedication to circularity.
CLAU-D’s atelier and shop are both located in Arnhem, minimizing transportation emissions as materials and production are handled locally from the Netherlands and the UK. This setup reduces environmental impact and supports the regional economy by keeping operations compact.
CLAU‑D utilizes all deadstock materials, which ensures that no animals are directly harmed for the sourcing of new materials for their collections.
CLAU‑D by Claudia Träumer embodies slow fashion with its commitment to handmade, tailored clothing. Operating from her atelier in Arnhem, Claudia offers made-to-order services, allowing for custom adjustments and incorporation of unique design ideas directly from customers. This bespoke approach guarantees that each garment is not only unique but perfectly suited to individual preferences.
The brand’s collection features vibrant colours and prints, crafted using exclusive fabrics. Claudia’s dedication to not expanding into fast fashion highlights her strong sustainability values. Each piece is designed to be timeless and durable, with the brand also offering repair and alteration services to extend the garment’s life. CLAU‑D’s focus on high-quality production and aftercare ensures each piece remains valuable over time.
CLAU‑D demonstrates a high level of transparency in its operations. The brand has provided comprehensive details about its practices to COSH!, this openness reinforces CLAU-D’s commitment to transparency and accountability in the fashion industry.
Conclusion
CLAU‑D stands as a beacon of slow fashion, with a strong emphasis on handmade, tailored clothing that champions both sustainability and style. The brand’s commitment to using exclusive, ethically-sourced materials and its bespoke production approach ensure each piece is not only unique but also aligns with the highest standards of quality and ethical fashion. With its transparent operations and dedication to customer-centric services like custom designs and garment alterations, CLAU‑D earns COSH!‘s recommendation for anyone seeking sustainable and stylish women’s apparel.
You can find CLAU‑D’s exquisite creations at their points of sale listed below!
