Transparency

IKIGAI believes that transparency is an essential part of responsible fashion. Knowing how, where, and by whom a garment is made helps create a more honest relationship between the maker and the wearer.

This page explains the choices behind IKIGAI products and how decisions are made throughout the process.

One-person business

IKIGAI is a one-person company. Every garment is designed, patterned, cut, and sewn by one person. There is no outsourcing, no mass production, and no hidden steps in the process.

This means that production quantities are limited and timelines may vary, but at the same time that each garment is made with a high level of attention and care.

Materials

IKIGAI works primarily with surplus, deadstock, and second-hand fabrics sourced from large brands, recycling centres, and local suppliers. Whenever possible, materials are sourced within Finland.

Due to the nature of surplus and second-hand fabrics, exact fibre composition is not always known. In such cases, materials are assessed through experience and testing to determine whether fibres are natural or synthetic, and selected based on performance, durability, and suitability for each design. Known compositions are always stated when available.

Production

All garments are made in Finland in small batches.

Patterns are carefully planned to maximise fabric use. Production is detail-oriented, focusing on quality, fit, and longevity rather than speed.

Waste & leftovers

Textile waste is minimised as much as possible.

Fabric scraps are collected and stored for future use in smaller products, patchwork pieces, or testing new ideas, allowing materials to be used as fully and responsibly as possible.

Pricing

IKIGAI pricing reflects the true cost of slow fashion: quality materials, local production, and the time required to design and sew each garment.

Prices are not designed to compete with fast fashion, but to support ethical production and the long-term sustainability of a small, independent business.