Benefiting from European manufacturing, HNST can offer an assurance of ethical working conditions for their pants’ production while keeping transportation expenses and CO2 emissions at a minimum. Moreover, HNST prioritises transparency regarding its production journey and labour conditions. A comprehensive code of conduct, accessible on their website, lays out all pertinent details for your insight.
Each year, HNST collaborates with collection points to gather old jeans for a purposeful endeavour. The jeans in good condition find their way to the store shelves for resale, while HNST takes in the worn and broken ones. But before these jeans undergo a transformation, they face an additional quality assessment. A key requirement is that they consist of a minimum of 98% cotton.
The process of mechanical recycling occurs in Germany. Here, a fibre processor expertly slices the jeans into fibres, employing magnetic techniques to extract zippers, studs, and metal buttons. The lower sections of the jeans are separated using a non-magnetic process, which usually results in around 30% loss. However, this fibre loss is minimised through the strategic use of magnets.
Once the jeans are transformed into these minute fibres, they make their way back to Belgium, to the European Spinning Group (ESG), a specialist in yarn spinning. Given that the recycled fibres are too short for fabric production, Tencel, a sustainable lyocell fibre derived from responsibly sourced eucalyptus wood, is introduced. This step is carried out by Lenzing, an Austrian company with expertise in processing wood into filaments, as explained by HNST.
The spun yarns are then sent to Italy for dyeing using an innovative electrochemical method with indigo. This process, named Smart-Indigo, is a game-changer, requiring only a fraction of the energy and resulting in tenfold lower CO2 emissions than conventional dyeing methods.
A natural coating is applied to the yarns following dyeing to facilitate weaving. The fabric composition varies for different styles: certain designs consist of 56% recycled cotton (with 21% originating from post-consumer waste – non-reusable old jeans, and 35% from pre-consumer textile waste – fabric remnants from cutting patterns), 21% Tencel® yarn, and 23% organic cotton. In other styles, characterised by looser fits, the fabric mix comprises 80% pre-consumer recycled cotton and 20% organic cotton. The washing process occurs in Portugal, close to the manufacturing facility.
HNST’s commitment also extends to its T‑shirts, which are made from 80% pre-consumer recycled cotton and 20% organic cotton. Crafted in Portugal, these T‑shirts are currently available in two distinct fits, offered in both black and white.
But does HNST go the extra mile to complete the cycle and close the loop? Absolutely! HNST’s commitment extends beyond using recycled denim in their trousers. The design is carefully crafted to ensure the pants can be recycled again. The same principle applies to their T‑shirts, which are fully recyclable due to their 100% cotton composition.
Delving deeper into the details, the stitching is executed with 100% cellulose thread, entirely eschewing metal rivets. Instead, enhanced durability is achieved through embroidered pocket corners and borders. Polyester washing labels are deliberately omitted, with HNST opting to imprint all necessary information inside the pocket using cradle-to-cradle ink. Moreover, the label on the rear of the trousers is fashioned from FSC-certified paper, while the buttons are thoughtfully detachable and reusable. These conscientious choices collectively render the entire pair of trousers easily recyclable into new jeans. A truly commendable approach!
HNST jeans take pride in its production being 100% European-based, keeping its supply chain short and efficient. It all starts with old Belgian jeans, which are recycled in Germany. The resulting fibres return to Belgium, where they’re skillfully spun into yarn and combined with Tencel sourced from Austria. The vibrant dyeing process happens in Italy, while the finishing touches, including washing and sewing, are carried out in Portugal. And don’t forget their equally exceptional T‑shirts – they’re crafted in Portugal too!
Since no animal-derived materials are used for making HNST clothing, we can consider it a vegan-friendly brand!
HNST offers an ever-evolving collection of diverse denim cuts and colours for both men and women. This ensures everyone can discover a style that perfectly complements their body type. Beyond jeans, their range includes essential T‑shirts available in both black and white. With HNST, you can curate a classic and timeless look from their thoughtfully crafted collections.
HNST takes pride in its transparency regarding the production process and working conditions. All the details can be found in their comprehensive code of conduct on their website.
Conclusion
HNST stands firmly on honesty: their brand’s jeans embody eco-friendliness, ethical practices, and sustainability.
If you’re in the market for circular, sustainable jeans or T‑shirts, make sure to explore the featured sales outlets listed below.
