DIRTS, founded by Philipp in Aschaffenburg, Germany, started as a passion project which quickly grew into an established fair fashion label with a loyal community. Eleven years later, DIRTS stands as proof that small beginnings can evolve into a mission-driven brand with real impact. Philipp has a strong mission and a drive: “We want to make the world of fashion a little better, our focus is on slow fashion with clear values: honesty, transparency & social responsibility.” While DIRTS team may only count 10 employees, their ambition outweighs their size and Philipp’s mentioned values define both their culture within their supply chain and their products. Every hoodie, T-shirt, and beanie embodies this dedication, designed not for fast fashion but for slow, lasting change.
3,000 Pieces, 70% Certified
Each month, DIRTS produces around 3,000 garments. Already 70% of which are GOTS-certified. Manufacturing takes place in northern Portugal, where spinning, dyeing, and sewing facilities are located just kilometers apart. These short distances reduce environmental impact and give DIRTS control over the entire process – everything’s in view. Philipp explains: “We’re serious about sustainable textile production and we want to rely on a strong certification alongside our own controls. That’s why we have chosen GOTS.”
7,000 km Saved – By Bicycle and Going Above and Beyond
DIRTS has built sustainability into everyday operations in quirky but powerful ways. Local deliveries within a 25km radius are completed by bicycle, saving around 7,000 kilometers of CO₂ emissions each year. Meanwhile, they’ve turned Black Friday on its head – ditching discounts in favour of hosting a lunch party for their factory workers. And despite being small, they are proud to have a team member with Down Syndrome for over three years, showing how inclusion beats profit every time.
Since receiving GOTS certification in 2017, DIRTS has gained not just credibility, but also sharper insights into its textile value chain. Submitting data and monitoring every step has reinforced their due diligence while building friendships with their suppliers and trust with customers. “It’s important to us that we don’t just scratch the surface, but rather rigorously examine and monitor everything. This is especially important to avoid greenwashing,” Philipp emphasises. Even today, with many customers still unaware of GOTS, DIRTS sees education as both a responsibility and a unique advantage.
The Future: Zero Waste
DIRTS is already dreaming bigger and have their eyes on a specific goal. To one day own their own sewing facility and build a full-circle model, where no piece of clothing they create ever ends up as waste. GOTS aligns with this drive to dig deeper, question more, and constantly refine both products and processes. Always enhancing, never standing still: that’s what sets DIRTS apart! 
