Y‑05

Y‑05 is deeply committed to ethical practices and fair labour, extending this ethos to its manufacturing processes in Portugal and Mumbai, India. The brand collaborates with a small-scale manufacturing partner in Portugal, chosen for its alignment with Europe’s stringent standards on fair labour and excellent working conditions. This ensures that every piece of Y‑05 apparel is produced under ethical circumstances.

Additionally, Y‑05’s intricate embroidery work is carried out in Mumbai at a facility run by a trusted friend of the brand. This partnership is built on mutual respect and a shared commitment to ethical treatment and fair working conditions for all artisans. By maintaining a close relationship with their manufacturing partners, Y‑05 ensures that their values of dignity, respect, and fairness are upheld across all stages of production. This approach underscores Y‑05’s commitment to producing high-quality, ethically-made apparel.

Y‑05 embraces its environmental responsibility by selecting Lenzing’s TENCEL™ fibres sourced from responsibly managed, fast-growing eucalyptus forests sewn with polyester thread. These fibres are popular due to certain sustainable attributes, including a closed-loop production process and certified biodegradability, not including the polyester thread. However, TENCEL’s critical aspects have come under critique. Discover more here.

In addition to TENCEL™, Y‑05 incorporates various materials such as metal sequins, beads, natural stones, and crochet cotton threads, chosen for their ability to combine aesthetic appeal with environmental consideration. These embellishments are carefully selected to align with the brand’s aim of minimising its ecological footprint while enhancing the beauty of its garments.

Y‑05 emphasises its circular practices with its use of TENCEL™ fibres, renowned for their biodegradability and the closed-loop production process. Although the biodegradable nature of these fibres allows Y‑05’s products to decompose naturally, reducing environmental waste, their polyester threads and embellishments are not decomposable.

The closed-loop system that produces TENCEL™ fibres recycles water and reuses solvents, minimising waste and emissions.

At the heart of Y‑05’s product line is the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS)-certified Lenzing TENCEL™ fabric. Sourced from Austria, the journey of Y‑05’s garments begins in the eucalyptus farms, which are likely located in Spain or Portugal.

Moving further along the supply chain, the beads and other embellishments that adorn Y‑05’s garments add a layer of complexity and artistry to the brand’s offerings. These components are carefully sourced from local markets in Mumbai, India, reflecting Y‑05’s commitment to supporting local economies and artisans. The embellishments are then expertly applied in the partner factory in Mumbai, run by a friend of the brand, where skilled artisans bring Y‑05’s designs to life with their craftsmanship.

Finally, Y‑05’s garments are assembled by a manufacturing partner in Portugal, known for its high-quality standards and ethical labour practices. This choice ensures that the final sewing aligns with Y‑05’s fairness, quality, and environmental values.

Y‑05 avoids any animal products in their collections.

Y‑05 epitomises the ethos of slow fashion, carefully curating its collection to reflect mindfulness, durability, and an enduring style. This approach is grounded in the belief that fashion should be timeless, encouraging consumers to invest in pieces that last and transcend seasonal trends.

At the core of Y‑05’s slow fashion philosophy is the concept of a permanent collection. This seasonless range defies the conventional fashion calendar, offering garments designed to be relevant and wearable year-round, during a yoga practice, or for leisure. By focusing on timeless aesthetics, Y‑05 promotes a more sustainable and thoughtful approach to consumption.

Y‑05’s commitment to slow fashion is further reflected in its production practices. Each piece is produced in small quantities.

Handmade embellishments are a signature feature of Y‑05’s collections, adding a personal touch that machine production cannot replicate. These artisanal details, from hand-sewn beads to intricate embroidery, embody the brand’s dedication to craftsmanship and quality. By valuing the skill and time of artisans, Y‑05 champions a slower pace of fashion, where each garment is imbued with story and character.

Y‑05’s open dialogue with COSH! about their ethical and sustainable practices sets a high standard for transparency in the fashion industry. To further this transparency, enhancing direct communication with consumers via the Y‑05 website about its supply chain could provide significant value. Offering detailed insights into sourcing materials, manufacturing conditions, and ethical standards through the website would empower consumers with the knowledge to make informed purchasing decisions.

Highlighting the journey of materials like TENCEL™ fibres from sustainable eucalyptus forests and the craftsmanship behind handmade embellishments directly on the website can deepen consumer engagement and trust. Additionally, a dedicated FAQ section addressing sustainability practices and ethical considerations could reinforce Y‑05’s commitment to transparency and consumer education.