STUDIO 9 Guides the Fashion Industry in Responsible Solutions

Article published at FashionUnited.nl

STUDIO 9 assists fashion and lifestyle brands and retailers in designing and developing bespoke branding concepts. By evaluating materials based on production methods, durability, and recyclability, STUDIO 9 enables clients to make informed decisions about everything from buttons and badges to hangtags, hangers, displays, mannequins, and shop fixtures, etc.

Empowering Sustainable Fashion Solutions

"At STUDIO 9, we believe sustainability is a journey, not a destination. Our agenda is continuously evolving due to new legal requirements and expanding knowledge. We aim to simplify the process for our clients, making responsible choices accessible so they don't have to navigate all the constantly changing options," says Malene Treumer Nielsen, responsible for sustainability and compliance at STUDIO 9.

Do 'Sustainable' Products Truly Exist?

There are countless focus areas to consider when designing and producing products. All aspects must be considered, including materials, carbon footprint, production method, working conditions, packaging, and transportation. Sometimes, changing the material is the most effective way to raise the bar – other times, the transportation method might be the key to minimising the impact.

“We believe it is essential to take a holistic approach where we are not fixed on specific aspects. A product may have low emissions but a short material lifespan or low durability, making it less sustainable in the long term. For this reason, we always guide our customers on an impact-based approach and make our recommendations on the individual product to find the best solution for each client,” says Malene Treumer Nielsen.

Guiding Principles for Design Practices

STUDIO 9 has established 12 design principles to guide its sustainability efforts throughout the development process. These principles ensure systematic integration of responsible choices in materials, function and circularity, and research and digitalisation.

"We would, for example, propose cotton labels for cotton garments and paper strings on paper tags, avoiding mixed materials to simplify recycling for consumers," explains Malene Treumer Nielsen.

As a way to test new techniques and qualities, STUDIO 9 develops two annual collections for inspiration: "We aim to show that responsible choices can still be vibrant, exciting, and eye-catching," concludes Malene Treumer Nielsen.

Trusted Advisors in Every Step

"We aim to be our clients’ trusted advisors, using their specific goals and values as our starting point. There is no standard, perfect solution for everyone," says Malene Treumer Nielsen.

STUDIO 9 is part of the global company Nine United, with procurement offices in various countries from Asia to Turkey, allowing clients to produce branded products close to where they are needed. The joint ambition is to become preferred partners and suppliers in the development of honest and sustainable solutions.

STUDIO 9 – Branding in every detail - @studio9denmark