Kowtow was founded in 2006 in Wellington, New Zealand by Gosia Piatek with a simple but radical conviction: fashion can be in harmony with the world rather than hinder it. Nearly two decades later, the brand has proven it. Every Kowtow garment is made from 100% Fairtrade certified organic cotton — grown from non-GMO seeds, without harmful chemicals — and every component, from thread to buttons to trims, has been chosen for its natural, biodegradable, or recyclable nature. As of 2024, Kowtow is completely plastic-free across its entire collection and packaging.
Manufacturing takes place in Fairtrade certified factories in India, where workers are guaranteed fair wages, social security, pension funds, paid leave, medical insurance, and workplace unions through SA8000 certification. Kowtow visits their manufacturing partners twice a year, and publishes the names and locations of every supplier in their supply chain. FLO certified farmer groups receive a seasonal premium dedicated to community projects — medical costs, children's education, irrigation schemes, and more.
Kowtow designs for longevity and circularity — mono-material construction means garments are fully biodegradable at end of life. The brand also offers a repair program and a take-back program for recycling. Their packaging is 100% plastic-free, using FSC-certified materials and recycled cardboard. Kowtow is a certified B Corp with a score of 118.1 — more than double the median for businesses that complete the assessment.
✦ Certifications and Details: Fairtrade / FLO Certified (cotton and manufacturing), GOTS — Global Organic Textile Standard, Oeko-Tex Standard 100, B Corp Certified (score 118.1), SA8000 Certified manufacturing, FSC Certified packaging, 100% Plastic-Free Supply Chain (open source), Non-GMO, Living Wage NZ accredited, Seed to garment transparency, Woman Founded
