About
We no longer strive to be ‘sustainable’
Instead, our vision to create purely plant-based fabrics of exceptional quality is rooted in Omoiyari which anchors our decision-making in intentionality, as humans and as a business. At AIZOME, we nurture a radical belief in possibility, rooted in respect for tradition, nature, and one another.
When the mother of our co-founder, Michel, was diagnosed with cancer, treatments caused her skin to become extremely sensitive. As she spent more and more time in bed, unrelenting skin irritation led to tremendous discomfort. A doctor explained that the source of her irritation was likely the dark, synthetic dye in her bed sheets; her weakened immune system could no longer protect her skin from the harsh chemicals embedded in the fibers. Switching her sheets to undyed textile significantly decreased her skin irritation, offering her a bit more comfort along her journey with terminal illness.
Michel was struck by the impact textile had upon his mother’s quality of life. Driven to learn more, he and his partner (and AIZOME co-founder) Misa began to ask questions, but pulling at the metaphorical threads of the textile industry revealed an alarming lack of transparency that hid substantial environmental and human harm. Misa is originally from Japan; Michel from Germany. Michel had been living in Japan for 10 years when they met, connecting over a shared love of craftsmanship. Together, they created AIZOME. Now married, they live in Munich with their beloved pup, Ella, and two cats Butter and Marky.
2013
Awakening
AIZOME takes root as Michel's mother experiences dark spots during cancer treatment, sparking the realization of the potential harm caused by harsh textiles.
2015
Apprenticeship
Misa and Michel partner with renowned indigo dyer Cozo Cazama to explore the medicinal benefits of plant-made dyes.
2016
Breakthrough
Ultrasound technology leads to the successful creation of vibrant and durable plant-made textiles, preserving the healing properties of natural dyes through multiple wash cycles.
2017
Resilience
AIZOME perseveres despite skepticism from major brands, refining colorfastness to make plant colors commercially viable.
2018
Triumph
AIZOME trotzt allen Zweifeln und startet eine sehr erfolgreiche Crowdfunding-Kampagne für indigo-gefärbte Bettlaken, die Kunden auf der ganzen Welt in ihren Bann ziehen.
2019
Innovation
AIZOME wird gegründet und erhält ein Patent für AIZOME ULTRA, ein einzigartiges Verfahren zur Herstellung von Textilien, bei dem Nachhaltigkeit im Vordergrund steht und das empfindlicher Haut zugute kommt.
2021
Expansion
AIZOME Europe GmbH is established to meet the growing demand for exceptional products in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, forging exclusive partnerships in the spa and hospitality industry.
2022
Validation
AIZOME's collaboration with the University of Cambridge confirms the undeniable healing properties of indigo, dispelling any doubts.
2023
Transformation
AIZOME showcases the cleanliness of its production process through a groundbreaking partnership with Serviceplan and introduces WASTECARE, a globally acclaimed skincare product made from recycled textile waste. The judges verdcit: Gold. Julie Rutigliano, creative director, Pereira O'Dell: “It’s rare to come up with an idea that is both simple and innovative. WASTECARE™ for AIZOME manages to achieve this. Skincare made from industrial waste sounds absurd. And therein lies the power of this campaign. A provocative notion that ultimately proves how AIZOME is completely unique. Even its waste water is not only harmless, but actually healthy. That is a powerful statement, demonstrated in such an elegant and original way, that it deserves high recognition in this competition."
