What is Aspiga?
Aspiga is an award-winning, B Corp certified sustainable clothing brand that’s all about creating stylish collections for both women and men. Their secret? Ethically sourced materials that not only look good but feel good to support. When you shop Aspiga, you’re not just grabbing high-quality garments designed to last—you’re backing a positive change for the planet and its people. The story began back in 2005 on a holiday in Kenya, where the founder was captivated by the artistry of hand-beaded sandals, intricately adorned belts, and bold, bright jewellery crafted by local artisans. Inspired by this, the first sandal and belt collection launched in 2006 at Top Drawer in London, quickly picked up by 40 stockists, including the prestigious Fenwick of Bond Street. Since then, Aspiga has grown, but craftsmanship and sustainability remain at the heart of everything they do.
Main Benefits of Aspiga’s Approach
Here’s a quick snapshot of what makes Aspiga stand out:
- B Corp Score: An impressive 98.9, reflecting top-tier social and environmental performance.
- Ethical Production: Strong partnerships with artisans in Kenya and India ensure fair wages, safe working conditions, and long-term opportunities.
- Sustainable Materials: Use of organic cotton, natural fibres, recycled fabrics, and eco-friendly dyes to minimize environmental impact.
- Community Support: Investment in education, infrastructure, and entrepreneurial programs in Kenya and India.
- Handmade Craftsmanship: Preservation of traditional techniques, especially in sandals and woven accessories.
- Social Responsibility: Support for charitable initiatives like schools in Kenya and The Salvation Army.
Craftsmanship and Sustainability at the Core
Craftsmanship isn’t just a buzzword for Aspiga—it’s the foundation. The brand has managed to blend contemporary, stylish, and timeless designs with natural and organic materials. Every piece tells a story, reflecting the hands and hearts of the artisans who make them. Sustainability isn’t an afterthought either; it’s embedded in the production process. From sourcing eco-friendly fabrics to using dyes that are gentle on the environment, Aspiga’s commitment runs deep. It’s about creating fashion that lasts, both in style and durability, while treading lightly on the planet.
Supporting Communities Through Fair Trade
Aspiga’s relationships with artisans in Kenya and India go beyond business—they’re about building fair, respectful partnerships. Fair wages, safe working conditions, and long-term opportunities are non-negotiable. The brand places a special emphasis on empowering women through fair compensation and training, helping to foster independence and growth. This approach ensures that every product carries a positive social impact, supporting community development and preserving cultural heritage.
Social Impact and Charitable Initiatives
Giving back is woven into Aspiga’s DNA. The brand actively supports various social responsibility programs, focusing on education and infrastructure development in the communities that inspired its beginnings. Schools in Kenya benefit from these efforts, improving access to quality education. Additionally, Aspiga supports The Salvation Army, contributing to local community welfare. These initiatives highlight the brand’s dedication to making a real difference, not just in fashion but in people’s lives.
Project Impact on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 4: Quality Education – Supporting schools and educational programs in Kenya.
- SDG 5: Gender Equality – Empowering women through fair wages and training.
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – Ensuring fair trade and safe working conditions.
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – Using sustainable materials and eco-friendly processes.
- SDG 13: Climate Action – Minimizing environmental impact through sustainable practices.
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – Building strong artisan partnerships in Kenya and India.
B Corp Certification and Its Meaning
In 2022, Aspiga proudly became B Corp certified, a milestone that speaks volumes about its commitment to balancing profit with purpose. This certification embeds environmental and social responsibility into the company’s legal framework, ensuring that people and the planet are just as important as business success. It’s not just a badge—it’s a promise to keep pushing for positive change, holding the brand accountable to the highest standards of sustainability and ethics. Aspiga’s journey shows that fashion can be stylish, classic, and timeless, all while making a meaningful impact.
