About
We no longer strive to be ‘sustainable’
At AIZOME, we no longer strive to be ‘sustainable’. Sustainable is no longer enough. Instead, our vision to create healthy, plant-made textiles is rooted in omoiyari – the Japanese concept of honoring one’s relationship to all things.
Omoiyari - 思いやり- consideration, compassion; to anticipate the needs of others with empathy and thoughtful awareness.
Omoiyari anchors our decision-making in deep relational care and accountability, and in the thrilling possibility that there is a better way for humans – and a better future possible for all.
Omoiyari has grown our understanding of impact and interconnectedness, transforming our expectations of business along the way. At AIZOME, we nurture a radical belief in possibility – rooted in respect and celebration.
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 defies doubts and launches a successful crowdfunding campaign for indigo-dyed bed sheets that captivate customers all over the world.
2019
Innovation
AIZOME is founded and files a patent for AIZOME ULTRA, a unique process for manufacturing textiles that focuses on sustainability and benefits sensitive skin.
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."
