The Colorful DIfference

THE COLORFUL DIFFERENCE

The conversation about responsible garment production usually spins around the fabric & quality. However, the story behind fabric dyes is not often shared. As you can imagine, there is a wide variety of dyes, but they all fall into three major categories: Conventional Dyes, low-impact dyes, & Natural Dyes. 

Conventional Dyes are synthetic, chemical–based dyes used in most conventional clothing today. They are neither good for the environment nor your skin. The chemical components in these dyes leave heavy traces of carcinogens and heavy metals, and the greywater runoff from the colouring process devastates the environment. These subprocesses are devastating for nature and highly harmful to the factory workers exposed to these processes.

Low-impact dyes are also synthetic, chemical-based dyes designed to give the same colour palette as conventional dyes without heavy metals and certain chemical compounds. These dyes also have a higher absorption rate, which means 70% less water runoff. Additionally, these biodegradable/low-impact dyes are a safer option for anyone who suffers from allergies & chemical sensitivities.

Natural Dyes are made from herbs, fruits, teas, clays or other natural materials and have a limited colour option.

The Global Organic Textile Standards: GOTS certification independently certifies all stages of the textile production chain. It focuses on the end-to-end process of the fabric before certifying. This means that every step of the process, from growing the cotton to dyes used in colouring to water treatment systems in the dyehouse. GOTS certification is the quality stamp of mindful, environmentally, and socially righteous garment production.