Donsje Amsterdam

PRODUCTION LOCATIONS 

• Portugal
• Indonesia
• China
• India

WORKING CONDITIONS & LIVING WAGES 

Since 2022, Donsje Amsterdam has been certified according to the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) (certification number CU1146863) and primarily uses organic cotton fabrics. Additionally, compliance with the internal code of conduct is regularly monitored through external audits by organisations such as The Reassurance Network and the Sustainable Leather Foundation.

Donsje Amsterdam’s partnership with its suppliers is based on fairer trade practices. All partners are contractually obligated to adhere to the ​“Donsje Code of Conduct”, which sets social and environmental minimum standards. This encourages continuous development and improvement throughout the supply chain. As part of a structured factory visit programme, Donsje Amsterdam regularly visits its suppliers. In addition, annual audits conducted by external organisations such as The Reassurance Network in China and the Sustainable Leather Foundation in Indonesia ensure compliance with standards, particularly regarding working conditions, safety, and environmental protection. If necessary, joint improvement measures are implemented.

Donsje Amsterdam does not own its own production facilities but collaborates with external, carefully selected factories.

With the Shining Star Foundation, founded in 2012, Donsje Amsterdam supports the development of educational opportunities for disadvantaged children in Nairobi. A portion of the profits is donated for this cause.

In addition to the educational project in Nairobi, Donsje Amsterdam is also committed to other areas of social responsibility. Donations to the Shining Star Foundation and close collaboration with local artisans highlight the brand’s approach to creating positive social impact.

MATERIALS

• Cotton (preferably organic)
• Linen
• Merino wool
• Viscose
• Fake fur
• Polyester
• Nylon
• Leather
• Elastane

The company primarily focuses on natural fibres such as cotton, viscose, linen, wool, and leather. Read here to learn more about the benefits of organic cotton.
Additionally, synthetic fibres such as polyester, nylon, and fake fur are used. Read here to learn more about the invisible environmental impact of the fashion industry.

PACKAGING 

The supply chain increasingly focuses on using environmentally friendlier materials to optimise transport processes and minimise the ecological footprint. 
Since 2024, hangtags, paper packaging, gift packaging, and shopping bags have been made from FSC Mix paper. 
Additionally, polybags are made from recycled plastic, while hangtag cords and woven brand and size labels consist of recycled polyester.

No specific information is provided regarding e‑commerce. 
The entire packaging strategy follows the European Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations, ensuring that Donsje Amsterdam also takes responsibility for the environmentally sound disposal and recycling of products and packaging at the end of their lifecycle.

WATER USAGE & CHEMICALS 

There are no detailed statements from Donsje Amsterdam regarding water consumption. While linen is highlighted as a particularly more sustainable material due to its low water and land use, no specific measures for water management are communicated beyond this.

For chemical management, Donsje Amsterdam follows strict guidelines. A key element is the Restricted Substances List (RSL), which serves as a reference to ensure that all chemicals used in production remain within the specified concentration limits. Additionally, the materials undergo regular independent laboratory tests to verify both their chemical and mechanical safety.

Regarding certifications, Donsje Amsterdam has been certified according to the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) since 2022, primarily concerning the use of organically grown cotton. The company also works closely with external partners such as the Sustainable Leather Foundation to promote more sustainable practices in leather production. Regular audits by organisations such as The Reassurance Network contribute to the ongoing verification of compliance with internal standards.

There are no explicit references to microplastic release in the available information.

CIRCULAR PRODUCT DESIGN 

There are no explicit details on whether monomaterials are deliberately used to facilitate easier recyclability. However, Donsje Amsterdam evaluates the sustainability of a style based on the ​“Donsje Material List” – a style is considered more sustainable if at least 80% of the total weight of the raw materials used is rated as ​“best” or ​“better.”

Donsje Amsterdam follows the European legislation on extended producer responsibility (EPR) but does not provide specific details on how discarded garments are handled.

The brand actively works to increase the share of recycled materials, with a particular focus on sourcing recycled alternatives for polyester.

The company places great importance on high-quality, timeless products that can be used across generations. To support the longevity of its products, Donsje Amsterdam provides detailed care instructions to help customers maintain their garments.

CIRCULAR BUSINESS MODELS 

According to the website, Donsje Amsterdam does not offer a dedicated repair service. Instead, the brand focuses on creating high-quality, timeless products designed to last for generations, supported by detailed care instructions that help customers maintain their garments.

There are also no indications that Donsje operates a take-back service for worn or used clothing. While the brand aligns with European extended producer responsibility regulations, no specific circular business models such as repair, rental, or resale of used clothing have been communicated.

DISTANCE & COMPLEXITY OF THE SUPPLY CHAIN 

• Portugal
• Indonesia
• China
• India
• Donsje Amsterdam is headquartered in Amsterdam, Netherlands.
• The brand primarily distributes and exports its products within Europe but also serves other international markets.

TRANSPORTATION

In 2020, 100% of the production volume was transported by air freight from the production sites to the warehouses.
By 2022, the share of air freight was reduced to 68%, while sea freight increased to 19% and road transport to 13%.

This transition is part of the efforts to reduce the CO₂ footprint and establish a more sustainable logistics chain.

No specific transport details are provided for the shipping of end products to customers.

• Leather
  Merino wool
• Donsje Amsterdam works closely with selected leather suppliers, with a particular focus on the supply chain in Indonesia, in cooperation with the Sustainable Leather Foundation.
• The exact origin of the wool is not explicitly stated.

Donsje Amsterdam follows the general ​“Donsje Code of Conduct,” which defines minimum standards in social and environmental matters.

A separate code explicitly focusing on animal-derived materials is not mentioned.

Product Design

Donsje Amsterdam is a children’s fashion label focused on high-quality clothing for babies and children.
In addition to clothing, the range also includes accessories and handcrafted leather shoes that reflect traditional craftsmanship.

Slow Fashion Processes

There are no explicit details on how many collections Donsje Amsterdam releases per year.
Donsje Amsterdam follows a made-to-order approach, which helps to prevent overproduction and promotes more sustainability. However, a customised, tailor-made production specifically for customers is not offered.

TRANSPARENCY ON PRODUCT 

Regarding traceability, the product page primarily displays which materials have been used and which certifications are in place. However, no specific details are provided about the production country or the exact location where each item was manufactured.

The main focus is on transparency regarding material quality and the associated standards, rather than on detailed traceability of individual production sites.

TRANSPARENCY ON PROCESSES

Donsje Amsterdam provides extensive information about its processes, suppliers, and the ​“Donsje Code of Conduct.“
However, there are no detailed disclosures regarding cost structures or the specific traceability of individual products.
The information about processes and suppliers cannot be directly linked to a specific product.