Dilly Socks

PRODUCTION LOCATIONS 

• Portugal
• Turkey
• Switzerland 
• Pakistan 

WORKING CONDITIONS & LIVING WAGES 

Dilly Socks states that almost all their products are manufactured in Europe, where they can guarantee high standards in terms of working conditions and environmental regulations. Additionally, they state that they work exclusively with producers who meet the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) or the Cradle to Cradle Certified Gold Standard criteria. 

The brand states that the exception to their European production is for their new D‑Compose collection, which is produced in Pakistan in a factory that is certified with the Cradle to Cradle Gold Label.

MATERIALS 

• Organic cotton 
• Polyamide 
• Recycled polyamide 
• Elastane 
• Wool 
• Viscose 
• NaNea by OceanSafe 

Dilly Socks states that they keep the cotton content in their socks as high as possible; usually between 70 and 85%. The brand states that polyamide and elastane is necessary to improve the comfort and durability of their socks, so their socks also contain smaller percentages of these synthetic fibres. Dilly Socks states that they are continuously increasing the proportion of recycled polyamide, in an effort to decrease their ecological footprint. 

Dilly Socks have also released a ​‘D‑Compose’ range. The socks in this range contain a fibre called naNea, made by OceanSafe, and at least 98% organic cotton. Dilly Socks states that these products are Cradle to Cradle Certified, and can degrade under best conditions within 6 weeks, and are made from materials which can be recycled or composted. 

PACKAGING

Dilly Socks states that they print their labels on recycled paper. Additionally, wherever possible, their socks are sent directly in the box without additional packaging. Where more protection is needed, they use bags made from polylactic acid. The brand states that this is a renewable, easily compostable raw material that generates up to 60% fewer CO2 emissions in the manufacturing process than conventional polybags. 

WATER USAGE & CHEMICALS 

Dilly Socks states that they only use organic cotton, which is grown without harmful chemicals or pesticides. They also state that all their socks are Oeko-Tex 100 Standard certified. This ensures that their products are free from harmful substances. 

CIRCULAR PRODUCT DESIGN

Dilly socks are material blends, of primarily cotton with smaller percentages of synthetic materials. Whilst this is likely to increase the performance of their socks, it means they will be harder to recycle at the end of their lifespan. 

CIRCULAR BUSINESS MODELS 

Dilly Socks states that at the end of each season, there are sock designs that are left over. They turn leftover socks into cuddly sock monkeys, which are perfect for kids! 

DISTANCE & COMPLEXITY OF THE SUPPLY CHAIN 

Production locations: 

• Portugal
• Turkey 
• Switzerland 
• Pakistan 

Dilly Socks’ headquarters are located in Switzerland. The brand offers shipping within the EU. 

TRANSPORTATION 

Dilly Socks does not disclose what transportation methods are used in their supply chain. As the majority of their production is based in Europe, transportation related emissions are reduced. 

• Wool 

Dilly Socks currently offers a range of wool socks on their website, and some of these items state that they contain mulesing free wool. Mulesing is a controversial practice in which a small portion of the sheep’s skin is removed to prevent harmful larvae infestations. 

PRODUCT DESIGN

Dilly Socks offers socks for women, men, and kids, and they even have a ​‘partner’ range, so the whole family can match! Their children’s socks are available in sizes 0 – 12 months to 7 – 9 years. Adult socks are available in sizes 36 to 50. 

From playful colours to minimalist styles, Dilly Socks have the perfect socks for every taste. 

SLOW FASHION PROCESSES 

As Dilly socks are not made to order, some of their socks are currently on sale on their website. This also means that they sometimes have leftover stock, which the brand states they use to produce sock monkey toys. 

TRANSPARENCY ON PRODUCT 

Each product page clearly states the production countries, and what materials the socks are made from. Dilly Socks also provides care instructions, helping to keep their socks in use for as long as possible. 

TRANSPARENCY ON PROCESSES

Although Dilly Socks does not publish an annual report on the social or environmental aspects of their brand, they do share some information about their processes elsewhere on their website. They state that all their production partners meet the criteria of the GOTS or the Cradle to Cradle Certified Gold Standard, and explain what this means. Consumers can therefore feel more connected to the production of their socks, and understand more about the processes behind them.