Organic cotton from India
One fiber, many possibilities
Since our founding, we’ve relied on Fairtrade-certified organic cotton—and on the idea of taking natural fibers as far as possible. That’s why, for us, cotton isn’t just in the fabric, but also in details like sewing threads and labels.
To achieve this, we continually question what’s taken for granted in the textile industry. In 2024, polyester accounted for approximately 59% of global fiber production, making it by far the most widely produced fiber. 88% of this volume continues to be derived from fossil fuels.* Furthermore, microfibers can be released during washing and enter the environment as microplastics. For us, these are good reasons not to take the use of synthetic materials for granted. This path isn’t always the easiest one. But it’s one we follow out of conviction.
*Textile Exchange, Materials Market Report 2025, data from 2024 https://textileexchange.org/knowledge-center/reports/materials-market-report-2025/
100% organic cotton
Why we love cotton
Cotton feels soft and pleasant against the skin, is breathable, absorbent, and at the same time surprisingly robust. We use the same fiber to create light t-shirts, knit sweaters, sturdy canvas, or soft towels.
However, not all cotton is the same. Worldwide, it is estimated that only about 2.9% came from certified organic farming in 2023/24.* Conventional agriculture is usually associated with significant ecological and social challenges. For us, therefore, it is not just about what a fiber can do, but also where it comes from and under what conditions it is grown and processed.
We are taking a different path – and have been committed for more than 10 years to actively shaping and driving positive change in the clothing industry: ecological and fair, certified according to GOTS and the Fairtrade Cotton Standard.
*Textile Exchange, Materials Market Report 2025, data for the 2023/24 harvest season. https://textileexchange.org/knowledge-center/reports/materials-market-report-2025/
Proudly made in India
From cotton to fabrics to the finished product, the entire manufacturing process takes place in India. The country is one of the world’s oldest cotton-growing regions, and those working in the textile industry possess extensive expertise—from cultivation to garment production. Since MELA was founded, we have been working with our partners to further develop our supply chain, with the goal of integrating as many steps of the textile value chain as possible within a single country and creating direct production structures. Over the years, this has led to the formation of long-term partnerships. Together, we develop new products, share knowledge, and implement ideas for which there is not yet a ready-made solution.