Zilch

PRODUCTION LOCATIONS 

Zilch does not disclose their production locations on their website. 

WORKING CONDITIONS & LIVING WAGES 

Zilch states that they partner with factories that ensure good working conditions. Their facilities adhere to International Labour Standards, and Zilch states that they maintain constant contact throughout the production process. 

MATERIALS 

• Bamboo viscose 
• EcoVero viscose 
• Wool 
• Organic cotton 
• Linen 
• Lycra 
• Elastane
• Modal
• Nylon 
• Recycled polyester
• Tencel
• Acrylic 

Zilch explains that bamboo viscose is an ideal material for several of their products as it naturally has hypoallergenic and antibacterial properties. The bamboo plant also grows quickly, making it a more sustainable alternative to traditional viscose. The brand also uses EcoVero viscose, another man-made, plant-based material. EcoVero viscose is produced by the Austrian company Lenzing from certified, responsibly sourced, wood pulp. 

Zilch’s organic cotton is certified according to the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS). This ensures that it is produced without harmful chemicals or pesticides, and is traceable. 

The brand also uses some synthetic materials, such as acrylic, elastane, and recycled polyester. These are normally used alongside more sustainable materials and in smaller percentages. 

PACKAGING 

Zilch does not disclose what packaging materials are used. 

WATER USAGE & CHEMICALS 

According to the brand, instead of harsh dyeing techniques, they choose more environmentally friendly processes that use less water and energy and don’t release harmful chemicals. Additionally, their bamboo viscose is produced in a closed-loop system, where the chemicals and water are reused. 

Unfortunately as Zilch’s products aren’t always free from plastic-based synthetic materials, they will release microplastics when washed. 

CIRCULAR PRODUCT DESIGN

As Zilch’s products are not always monomaterials, they will be more difficult to recycle at the end of their lifespans. For example, their sleeveless dress is a material blend of viscose, linen, and elastane. The brand does offer some 100% cotton and 100% viscose items, which will be less likely to generate excess waste. 

CIRCULAR BUSINESS MODELS 

Zilch does not disclose any circular business models on their website, such as a repair service or return scheme. 

DISTANCE & COMPLEXITY OF THE SUPPLY CHAIN

Zilch’s headquarters are based in Amsterdam and they offer shipping to Belgium, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, and Austria. Due to the brand’s lack of transparency regarding their processes, the overall length and complexity of their supply chain cannot be determined. 

TRANSPORTATION 

Zilch does not disclose what transportation methods they use in their supply chain or for e‑commerce. As they only ship to select countries in Europe, their transportation-related emissions are reduced. 

• Wool

Zilch states that their wool is certified by the Responsible Wool Standard (RWS). This helps to ensure animal welfare, alongside fair working conditions in the wool industry. 

PRODUCT DESIGN 

Zilch aims to offer timeless women’s wear, including dresses, jackets, skirts, and tops. As they offer both pieces with bold, more striking patterns, and minimalist monochrome designs, they cater for a range of different tastes. Zilch’s garments are available in sizes XS to XXL. 

Their website provides care instructions for each material they use, helping you to make the most of your purchases for longer. Zilch also provides a comprehensive size chart, to help ensure you choose the right size for your body type. 

SLOW FASHION PROCESSES 

Zilch participates in sales periods, which suggests that their business model does not align with slow fashion principles. 

TRANSPARENCY ON PRODUCT 

Each product page states what material the garment is made from, although the production country is not provided. Unfortunately this lack of transparency will make it difficult to know where your specific purchase was produced. 

TRANSPARENCY ON PROCESSES 

Although Zilch publishes a detailed material guide on their website, they do not state where they source their raw materials from. Zilch also does not disclose what their production locations are. This prevents consumers from understanding the processes behind the production of their clothes.