Clothing made in France, what does that mean?
“Made in France” appears to be much more than a simple mention on a label. It makes us think of heritage, artisanal know-how and a philosophy focused on quality, authenticity and innovation in the fashion industry. And if a “Made in France” label is affixed to a garment, it lets us imagine ethical workshops, serious and professional craftsmen, an economic fabric safeguarded in France.
So, choosing a skirt, pants, dress, blouse, etc. labeled Made in France, allows buyers to think that they are participating in a better world and that they are purchasing quality .
And yet...
Clothing Made in France that is not...
The law authorizing the mention of Made in France on products is extremely vague. In fact, the General Directorate of Enterprises (DGE) specifies that “to carry the label “Made in France” (or Made in France), a manufactured product must:
- derive a significant part of its value from one or more manufacturing stages located in France
- having suffered his last substantial transformation In France."
And that's the rub. Some brands having their clothes manufactured far from France, repatriate the finished clothes to French territory, and add their labels and/or composition labels, on which it is mentioned "Made in France". And yes... they consider that the "last substantial transformation" is the addition of these labels.
So here you are with clothes Made in France, but which are not (or very little).
I'm talking about it because I saw it with my own eyes!
Prefer Labels
Since origin marking can be controversial, strict and demanding labels have been put in place by organizations, verifying the veracity of the information provided. These labels assure you of the place of production and the quality of Made in France clothing.
This is why the Made in Paris label, which was awarded to Les Militantes, assures you of the origin of the collections that I offer you.
Until then, I affixed my Made in France clothing labels without it being controlled by anyone (except by me, my good faith and my ethics).
To obtain the Made in Paris label, I had to submit a complete file and the control of a jury of experts who asked me to prove the manufacturing of my collections in Paris. And if I want to keep this label, I will have to submit a file every year and have it validated again.
There are other labels guaranteeing that the products you buy are made in France. For example the “France Terre Textile” label or the “Origine France Garantie” label.
Why choose labeled clothing?
Clothing manufacturing in France contributes significantly to the country's economy by promoting the creation of local jobs, supporting small artisans and stimulating innovation. In addition, it promotes fair working conditions and encourages the preservation of traditional professions. Provided that the vast majority of parts are produced in France.
A commitment to sustainability
Labeled brands pay particular attention to sustainability. By advocating environmentally friendly production practices, promoting proximity to suppliers and favoring high-quality materials, they are committed to reducing their ecological footprint.
Do not believe either that the majority of clothes made in France are made abroad
Far be it from me to say that behind each Made in France garment there is a usurpation of the name.
Many young brands are extremely invested in sustainable development and rightly mention Made in France.
It is not easy to know the different labels offered, proving that this designation is completely justified.
But the lack of information on this subject can lead to purchases that we think are responsible, when they are not. And that the prices paid in no way correspond to the costs of the clothes purchased.
So, if Made in France is one of your priority purchasing criteria, the next time you fall for that blazer, or that coat, that you want to bring into your wardrobe, stay vigilant. And if you can, check if a label has been granted to the brand.
Find here our collection Made in France and benefiting from the “Made in Paris” label