Even though Summum is sold worldwide, the brand prides itself on conducting the design process in-house, from creating signature prints for the fabrics to drawing the patterns and picking the materials. The production, however, takes place overseas. Summum focuses on fostering long-term relationships with its suppliers to guarantee a certain level of quality.
Ethically, Summum Woman has established a Code of Conduct that aligns with all the ILO Four Fundamental Freedoms principles, indicating a commitment to certain ethical standards in its operations. However, there is no evidence that the brand ensures the payment of a living wage throughout its supply chain, which raises questions about the economic welfare of the workers involved. Summum Woman does conduct audits on some parts of its supply chain, though it does not specify what percentage is audited.
On their website, they state that they stay in close contact with their makers and suppliers, building long-term relationships to ensure quality.
Summum Woman, incorporates some eco-friendlier materials such as organic cotton into its collections.
On their product pages we see a lot of skirts, dresses and blouses made of 100% Viscose and some gilets made up of 100% Polyester. The production of 100% viscose fabrics often involves chemical processes that can have detrimental environmental impacts due to the use of carbon disulphide, while polyester, being a synthetic material derived from petroleum, contributes to the depletion of fossil fuels and can lead to significant pollution during its lifecycle, including microplastic shedding during washing.
Their knitwear products are usually material blends of natural and synthetic materials. Blending natural and synthetic materials in knitwear can complicate recycling processes, leading to increased waste, and while offering durability, it may also contribute to microplastic pollution due to the shedding of synthetic fibres during washing.
The brand still has a long way to improve their environmental impact. Currently, there is no evidence that the brand has engaged in meaningful actions to reduce or eliminate the use of hazardous chemicals. Furthermore, there is no indication that Summum Woman has put in place any water reduction initiatives.
Additionally, there seems to be a lack of initiative in reducing carbon and other greenhouse gas emissions within its supply chain, since they do not disclose their transportation methods or details about their packaging.
The brand’s approach to sustainability does not align with the principles of a circular economy model. The lack of use of recycled materials in their production indicates a missed opportunity in reducing virgin resource consumption.
The pieces in their collection made up of monomaterials are easily recyclable.
The use of material blends in their knitwear collection complicates recycling processes, as these blends are harder to break down and repurpose.
The brand does not offer repair service, which means that extending the lifecycle of their garments through mending is not an option they offer, which is a key aspect of circular fashion.
We are unaware of where their garments are produced or where materials are sourced, hence the length of the chain is unknown. They also do not mention their transportation methods, which makes a huge difference on their footprint regardless of the length of the chain.
Summum Woman uses animal-derived materials such as leather, wool, and exotic animal hair, with only its down meeting the Responsible Down Standard. Despite this, the brand does not use fur, exotic animal skin, or angora, indicating some consideration for animal welfare, though its use of other animal products remains a concern.
Summum Woman creates timeless pieces that can be effortlessly combined to create a versatile wardrobe. Their designs are both feminine and modern, with a nod to the latest fashion trends.
Summum Woman understands that every woman is unique, which is why they offer a wide range of sizes in their collection. They strive to create clothes that make every woman, regardless of size or body type, feel beautiful and confident.
The brand provides detailed washing instructions to ensure the longevity and proper care of their garments. They encourage repair over replacement, and reselling over disposal.
The brand’s lack of transparency regarding production location, material sourcing and shipping methods and packaging making it difficult to fully assess their supply chain.
Conclusion
COSH! recognizes Summum Woman for creating down-to-earth, stylish womenswear that celebrates individuality. This Amsterdam-based label offers a distinct blend of trend-awareness and timeless appeal in their skirts, dresses, blouses, and unique knitwear. Although there is a lot of room for environmental progress, their attention to quality sets them apart.
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