KLUE

Production locations –

• Turkey

Working Conditions & living wages -

KLUE’s products are manufactured in Turkey at ateliers that supposedly boast significant ethical certifications including OEKO-TEX Standard 100 and GOTS, though these certifications remain unverified. The production facilities also hold a BSCI A rating, which suggests a commitment to maintaining ethical workplace standards. Despite these certifications, detailed information about the suppliers and the nature of their workplace practices, or how frequently KLUE interacts with and visits these suppliers, has not been provided. 

Materials -

• Cotton
• Wool
• Lyocell
• Polyamide
• Polyester
• Elastane
• Lurex

KLUE focuses on using better materials in their product range, mainly Aegean organic cotton, and Merino Wool. These indicate a preference for natural fibres, however they also use synthetic and semi-synthetic fibres such as lyocell, polyamide, polyester, and elastane. Additionally, ​“eco-friendly” Lurex is used to provide a sustainable alternative within their vibrant designs, however we are unsure of the specifics of the eco-friendly nature of the lurex, more information is needed to know their ​“sustainable” nature.

While KLUE claims to be GOTS certified, which would imply sustainably sourced materials, specific certification details have not been provided. 

Packaging, Water Usage, and Chemicals– 

They also claim their products are OEKO-TEX compliant, ensuring they are free from harmful chemicals. However, without specific details on packaging methods and the chemicals used beyond a general compliance claim, the full scope of their environmental impact remains unclear.

Circular product design -

KLUE uses high percentages of synthetic materials mixed in with natural materials in the socks. While such synthetic blends are needed to make socks more elastic, this also makes recycling more difficult at the end of their use, which reduces the circularity of their products.

Circular business models -

Besides the design of the socks, the brand does not detail any circular business models such as take back or recycling systems. However, in this case, it may be more beneficial to use textile recycling systems already in place by local municipalities. Leasing or rental systems also would not apply to this brand. 

Distance & complexity of the supply chain – 

• Production locations: Turkey
• KLUE HQ is located in France
• KLUE sells/​exports in these countries: Globally

Transportation -

KLUE’s production is located in Turkey, but the full extent of the supply chain remains undisclosed. We currently lack details on specific transportation methods used for product distribution. This information is crucial to fully assess the brand’s environmental impact, particularly in terms of emissions. Further details are awaited to complete our understanding of KLUE’s operational footprint.

KLUE incorporates Merino wool in their products; however, the brand has not provided details regarding the ethical sourcing of this wool or if it is mulesing-free. 

Product design -

KLUE offers a range of unisex, vibrantly coloured socks that add character to everyday wear. They provide some care instructions on their retailers’ websites, focusing on the maintenance of their socks. 

Slow fashion processes – 

The brand appears to avoid seasonal collections or participation in sales, which would avoid overproduction, but this is as of yet unclear. 

Transparency on product -

KLUE provides transparency regarding their materials on each product page. They also provide production details regarding their certifications associated with each product, however no concrete links or names for the consumer to verify themselves. 

Transparency on processes -

The brand gives a lot of information regarding their certifications and production locations, but does not go into detail regarding their ethical practices or any links to verify the certifications.