Kolo Berlin

PRODUCTION LOCATIONS 

• Germany 

WORKING CONDITIONS & LIVING WAGES 

KOLO Berlin produces in its own KOLO studio in Berlin, thereby guaranteeing regulated and controlled working conditions. KOLO Berlin states that by choosing local production, they are actively contributing to strengthening the regional economy too. So your purchases not only support more sustainable fashion, but also the people behind the scenes. 

MATERIALS 

• Organic cotton 
• Natural rubber 
• Tencel Lyocell
• Organic merino wool 
• Refibra Tencel 
• Elastane 

KOLO Berlin uses organic cotton for the majority of their products. Even their coats are sometimes made with organic cotton, as the brand uses EtaProof which is water-repellent. They source this material from the Zurich-based weaving mill Stotz. 

Other coats which are designed to be warm and comfortable are made with organic merino wool. KOLO Berlin states that this is sourced from South America, and spun, weaved, and finished in Italy. 

The brand also uses Tencel Lyocell, which is sourced from Austria. This innovative material is made from wood pulp, and is therefore a more sustainable alternative to synthetics. 

When it comes to haberdashery, the brand consistently uses plastic-free components, such as elasticated cotton and rubber bands, metal buttons, and high-quality YKK zips, which are not only robust but also durable. 

PACKAGING 

KOLO Berlin does not disclose what packaging materials are used in their supply chain or for e‑commerce. 

WATER USAGE & CHEMICALS 

KOLO Berlin states that organic cotton is their most used material. Organic cotton requires less water to produce than conventional cotton, and is grown without harmful chemicals or pesticides. 

CIRCULAR PRODUCT DESIGN 

KOLO Berlin primarily uses natural monomaterials, and a large range of their products are 100% cotton or 100% lyocell. This increases the likelihood that they can be recycled at the end of their lifespan. Unfortunately, this is not the case for all their products as some of them are material blends. 

CIRCULAR BUSINESS MODELS 

Customers have a lifetime repair guarantee. This helps to prevent excess waste from being generated, as it encourages consumers to keep their purchases for longer. 

DISTANCE & COMPLEXITY OF THE SUPPLY CHAIN 

Production locations: 

• Germany 

The showroom, which is also used as a store, and the studio, are both located at Selchower Straße 31 in 12049 Berlin. This shortens the supply chain considerably, and saves on transport from external suppliers or producers. 

KOLO Berlin offers worldwide shipping. 

TRANSPORTATION 

KOLO Berlin ships carbon neutrally through DHL GoGreen, greatly reducing their transportation-related emissions. 

• Organic merino wool 

KOLO Berlin states that they only use organic merino wool, sourced from certified suppliers. According to the brand, their wool is not chemically treated, and the animals are treated fairly. In particular, the practice of mulesing is prohibited. Mulesing is a controversial practice in which a small portion of the sheep’s skin is removed to prevent harmful parasitic infestations. 

PRODUCT DESIGN 

KOLO Berlin pays special attention to high quality and timelessness, to ensure that the garments will remain in use for years to come. COSH! also appreciates the fact that the made in Berlin label appeals to different age and gender groups. 

SLOW FASHION PROCESSES 

KOLO Berlin only brings out one modern, Berlin-inspired collection per year and produces in small quantities or to order. This greatly reduces the likelihood of waste being generated from overproduction, and makes every item of clothing unique. 

TRANSPARENCY ON PRODUCT 

Each product page details what materials the garment is made from, and states the production country. But as every product is made in Berlin, you’ll always know exactly where your specific purchase was produced! This truly sets KOLO Berlin apart from other brands. 

TRANSPARENCY ON PROCESSES 

As the small company combines design, production and sales at one location in Berlin, the supply chain is short and clearly traceable. Customers are even invited to see the production process on site at Studio KOLO. It doesn’t get much more transparent and honest than that.