Materials
The tops, dresses and suits are mostly made from organic and oeko-tex certified cotton. This means that Kaiko can guarantee eco-friendly textile production.
The brand also uses 100% linen and 100% lyocell clothing. Lyocell is a more sustainable alternative to cotton (which requires a lot of water to produce). Lyocell is made from eucalyptus fibres grown in Portuguese forests.
Clothing made from one type of material is easier to recycle. However, we found some of the clothes had 5% elastane which is less sustainable and makes it more difficult to recycle. This is a conscious choice on behalf of Kaiko to ensure the clothes are stretchy and fit all bodies perfectly. Clothes that fit you well will be worn more and therefore be used more so we respect their decision.
Vegan
Kaiko has a wide range of clothing that does not contain animal materials, but the brand is not 100% vegan. For his warm cardigans, Kaiko makes use of mulesing-free merino wool, and alpaca wool.
Ethical
The production of Kaiko is spread over several countries worldwide. The cardigans are made in Estonia, the organic stockings in Italy and the cashmere turtlenecks in Nepal. Founder Mirjan Sokka believes it is important to support women worldwide. That’s why Kaiko regularly donates money to the education of Nepalese women: 7% of all proceeds goes to women and children in Nepal.
The other skirts, pullovers, jumpsuits and dresses are made in Portugal. Most of them in a Cottonhouse Lda Factory in the north of Portugal. This Finnish company only employs 65 workers. Depending on their position, they are paid at least minimum wage or more. In addition, all employees receive private health care. Any overtime is agreed and remunerated in agreement with the employee. According to the new Portuguese collective labour agreement for the textile industry, employees can work overtime up to 2 hours/day and a maximum of 200 hours over a year if necessary.
The Finnish CEO of Cottonhouse Riikka Keski-Vähälä de Oliveira is responsible for the employees, purchases and products. She ensures that suppliers and partners adhere to their environmental and ethical values.
