1st Feb 2026

Social responsibility at VAAI is approached with structure and intention. This framework outlines how we consider environmental impact, production standards and community contribution across every stage of our business. It reflects our commitment to transparency, measured progress and long-term accountability.

THE VAAI IMPACT FRAMEWORK

Our responsibility is designed with the same intent as our garments - thoughtfully, transparently and built to last.

I. PLANET

Measured progress. Lasting accountability.

Net Zero at VAAI

Net zero is not a declaration. It is a direction of travel.

For VAAI, it means actively reducing emissions created by our operations and responsibly addressing what remains. We measure our Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions through the SME Climate Hub.

·       Scope 1 - Direct emissions from spaces and operations we control.

·       Scope 2 - Emissions linked to purchased energy.

Scope 3 - emissions across our value chain - represents the largest area of impact for a womenswear brand, spanning raw materials, manufacturing, transport, packaging, product care and end of life.

As a growing brand working with small artisan units, Scope 3 measurement remains complex. Many partners do not yet measure their own emissions. As production scales, so too will our reporting. Progress over perfection guides us.

[View our latest emissions report here.]

Responsible Materials & Packaging

Material choices extend beyond the garment itself.

All VAAI packaging is made using recycled materials, selected to minimise environmental impact while maintaining product integrity. We prioritise suppliers who can demonstrate responsible sourcing and material traceability wherever possible.

As with our fabrics, transparency guides our decisions - balancing protection, presentation and reduced environmental impact.

Our Green Supply Chain

We source textiles from established, reputable suppliers.

Where fabrics are described as organic or OEKO-TEX® certified, we request recognised certification. Due to our limited production runs, small meterage orders and use of deadstock fabrics, certification is not always available. In these instances, this is clearly stated.

Transparency - never assumption - informs how we communicate materials.

Where possible, each product page includes:

·       Fabric origin

·       Raw material composition

·       Relevant certification references

In accordance with the UK Green Claims Code, customers may request access to recognised certifications via info@vaailondon.com

Waste & Resource Use

Precision cutting methods optimise yield and minimise offcut waste.

Remaining remnants are repurposed into small accessories - hair accessories, collars, sleep masks and travel pouches - extending the life of each textile beyond a single garment.

Limited production runs further reduce excess inventory and overproduction

II. PEOPLE

Respect across every stage of craft.

We work with three production units.

Two UK-based units, located just outside London, craft our ready-to-wear, made-to-order and bespoke pieces. These are visited every 4-8 weeks and operate in full compliance with UK employment law, including fair wages and health and safety standards.

Our knitwear is crafted by a specialist unit in Inner Mongolia, China - selected for its expertise in cashmere and fine fibre craftsmanship.

This partner:

·       Is accredited by the China National Accreditation Service for Conformity Assessment

·       Is audited by Amfori

·       Holds a licence with The Woolmark Company

·       Is certified to Responsible Wool Standard

·       Holds OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 certification

·       Is a member of the Good Cashmere Standard

[Access certification documentation here.]

III. ANIMALS

Responsible fibre. Verified standards.

Animal welfare standards are upheld through recognised third-party certification frameworks.

Our knitwear supplier is licensed by The Woolmark Company to use the Woolmark, Woolmark Blend and Wool Blend Marks in accordance with its licence agreement.

We prioritise certified responsible fibre standards wherever available, including Responsible Wool, Mohair and Alpaca frameworks.

[Access certification documentation here.]

IV. CIRCULARITY

Designing beyond the first wear.

Limited Collections

We produce in small, controlled runs to reduce surplus stock. Our suppliers work to minimise material waste through considered design planning and reuse of pre-existing yarns

Care, Repair & Longevity

Since Winter 2024, VAAI customers are offered an in-store seasonal complimentary knitwear de-pilling service - encouraging longevity and garment care.

We also provide alteration, repair and mending services for VAAI pieces at a subsidised rate. Craft does not end at purchase. We believe in extending wear, not replacing it.

[Sign up here to receive service reminders.]

V. COMMUNITY

Clothing as confidence. Infrastructure as impact.

Charitable Partnerships

We maintain an ongoing partnership with Smart Works, supporting women into employment through clothing and confidence-building services.

·       2023 — Donation of surplus pieces to Smart Works Reading.

·       2024 — Donation of surplus pieces to Wandsworth Oasis, supporting individuals living with HIV.

We believe clothing can restore confidence, opportunity and dignity.

VI. BEYOND THE BRAND

Building platforms. Backing independence.

In April 2023, The 192 Collective opened its doors to support small, independent British brands navigating an increasingly consolidated retail landscape.

The concept was pioneered by VAAI founder Hetal, who recognised the need for a physical platform dedicated to emerging design talent - one rooted in collaboration rather than competition.

More than a boutique, The 192 Collective was conceived as shared infrastructure: offering visibility, community and commercial opportunity to independent labels across fashion, accessories and lifestyle.

VAAI plays an integral role in the venture, both as a founding presence and as an active supporter of the designers and makers it champions - each united by a commitment to considered design, responsible production and long-term impact.

The 192 Collective was recognised by The Telegraph as one of Britain’s Top 50 Best Boutiques, reinforcing the value of curated, community-driven retail.

We believe impact is not only about reducing harm. It is about building better systems - and a more independent future for responsible design.