Based in Arnhem, the Dutch brand works with more than 30 graphic designers and illustrators to develop its unique designs. These designs are printed on the shirts and jerseys partly in Portugal and partly in the Netherlands. The clothes themselves are produced in Portugal, while the cycling collection is made in Italy and Ukraine.
To ensure fair production and safe working conditions, Okimono has drawn up its own code of conduct. This is an agreement signed by all producers that contains the brand’s values and standards. This includes requirements on working conditions and paying a fair wage.
Okimono works almost exclusively with European producers. All production workshops must therefore comply with EU labour law and regulations. Okimono plans to visit the production workshops itself soon, in order to better convey the story of the makers behind the clothes.
The only exception is the cotton, which comes from Turkey. However, the cotton is GOTS-certified (Global Organic Textile Standard), which also controls social conditions in production.
In terms of materials, Okimono is also committed to more sustainable choices. All t‑shirts, polos and jumpers are made of 100% organic cotton. The cotton is also GOTS certified. This label checks the production process for the use of chemicals such as pesticides, insecticides and chemical fertilisers.
Okimono also has a cycling clothing line, produced in Italy and Ukraine. This clothing is made of synthetic materials. To minimise environmental impact, Okimono uses water-based printing inks. Moreover, all clothes are also OEKO-Tex certified, which shows that the clothes do not contain harmful chemicals.
Circularity is an important theme for Okimono. The brand works with mono-materials to ensure the clothes can be recycled after use. To take this even further, the brand has set up its own T‑shirt exchange programme, ‘Recycle Love’. At the Okimono Store in Arnhem, you can trade in your worn-out shirt for a new model. In return Okimono makes sure that the old one is properly recycled by Curitas into new materials and raw materials.
On top of that, for every shirt that is recycled, they donate to “Trees for All”, for the worldwide planting of new forests!
Okimono keeps their supply chain short by working with European producers. Only the cotton has a different origin – Turkey. The clothes are made in Portugal, Italy and Ukraine, while the designs are printed in the Netherlands and Portugal.
By producing mainly in (Western) Europe, they ensure the shortest possible pathways and distances to get to you, limiting the ecological impact due to transport.
Okimono’s collections contain no animal materials and are therefore vegan-friendly!
Okimono aims for premium quality, sustainable identity wear: good basics with awesome designs, which are produced as world friendly as possible and will last a long time.
Okimono designs graphic prints are tailored to the men who wear them. The wide range of styles, themes and colours offers something for everyone. The prints are inspired by current themes, cities, sports, nature and more.
The brand does not work in fixed collections but releases a new design every week. The designs can also be pre-ordered in the pre-order system. That way you help avoid overproduction, and you pay a little less that way!
Besides the extensive men’s collection, Okimono is also working on some designs for women.
On top of that, they have shirts in set, to have a matching outfit with your father, son or brother!
Okimono is pushing hard for transparency. On their website, you can find a lot of information about the materials, certificates and production workshops. This made it easy for COSH! to check all the information. Moreover, the brand entered into a conversation with COSH! to explain their sustainable plans for the future even more!
Conclusion
Okimono is not just a brand; it’s a statement. Okimono works day and night with more than 30 of the very best graphic designers, illustrators and artists to create the finest eco t‑shirts (and more). Okimono has one mission: make your favourite t‑shirt! Not only are their shirts crafted from 100% organic European cotton, the brand is committed to fair wages, safe working conditions, and the utmost transparency in their operations. The company’s dedication to the environment doesn’t stop at production; they’ve initiated the ‘Recycle Love’ program, turning worn-out shirts into new materials and planting trees along the way. Rooted in Arnhem and with a strong European production base, Okimono is in pursuit of slow fashion, introducing innovative designs without compromising quality. Whether it’s a unique gift for a loved one or a statement piece for yourself, with Okimono, you’re not just wearing a T‑shirt; you’re wearing a story.
