March 30, 2023 — Since early March 2023, Suitable has been using Fairtrade cotton in the Suitable Respect clothing line, becoming one of the first men’s fashion chains in the Netherlands to do so. This is a significant recognition of their efforts to produce high-quality clothing as sustainably and fairly as possible at an attractive price. The articles are available both online and in one of the seventeen physical stores in the Netherlands and Belgium.
‘With this certification, we are even more confident in the sustainability of our product,’ says Suitable founder and owner Raoul van Dun. The men’s fashion specialist is no stranger to sustainability and social responsibility, holding multiple certifications that demonstrate their commitment to full transparency. However, Fairtrade is particularly special, according to Van Dun: ‘In Fairtrade, we have found a genuine organization dedicated to the well-being of people. This goes beyond a better price; it ensures a fair livelihood. By investing in education and sustainable techniques, you create a better future that benefits the next generation of farmers.’
Peter d’Angremond, director at Fairtrade Netherlands, said: ‘The position of the cotton farmer is often overlooked, although it is the first essential step in the supply chain. Therefore, we applaud Suitable, as a pioneer in men’s fashion, for choosing Fairtrade cotton. With this step, they are making a positive impact on the lives of cotton growers and the environment. Let this be an example for the industry.’
Responsible Business
Good quality does not have to be expensive or come at the expense of people and nature. With this in mind, Suitable men’s fashion has been investing in a sustainable and fair production chain since 1996. The Suitable Respect line uses organic and sustainable materials and, wherever possible, natural dyes. The process is designed to produce high-quality garments that last a long time. To ensure this, Van Dun personally visits the workshops and partners. These inspections cover craftsmanship, working conditions, and safety. This gives customers the assurance that Respect items are produced responsibly. Furthermore, the designs are timeless, allowing them to be worn for multiple seasons.
About Suitable
For over 25 years, Suitable has been the expert in sustainable and high-quality men’s fashion. What started in the student room of owner Raoul van Dun in Maastricht has grown into a men’s fashion chain with sixteen stores in the Netherlands and one in Antwerp. Whether customers choose the Suitable house label or other top brands, they empower the modern man with a wide range of fashion choices. Since September 2022, circularly produced items have also been included in the assortment. In addition, Suitable has been named the best men’s fashion webshop for the third year in a row at the 2023 Shopping Awards.
About Fairtrade
Fairtrade’s mission is to make the world fair. Through better trade conditions, they work to improve the living and working conditions of millions of farmers and plantation workers worldwide and protect the environment. For this purpose, Fairtrade collaborates with farmers united in cooperatives to strengthen their negotiating position, achieve economies of scale, and enable investments in quality improvement. In addition, local Fairtrade teams support farmers and workers on various topics such as management, sustainability, and safe working conditions. They also implement various impact programs related to climate change, gender equality, youth, and child labor. Fairtrade’s strict standards are independently verified.
For more information, visit suitableshop.nl.
