Meet the Maker: Baykan Moda on Driving Responsible Denim Production
Baykan Moda shares with us how to create a more sustainable denim supply chain.
The Turkey-based denim garment maker, which produces apparel for giants like Arcadia Group and Inditex, is working to reduce the industry’s carbon footprint with eco-responsible materials and manufacturing equipment. Baykan Moda uses sustainable fibers, including TENCEL™ and TENCEL™ x Refibra™ branded lyocell fibers, in its jeans, while ozone technology machines enable it to use up to 90 percent less water in its denim production process.
One of their latest collections uses the Candiani REGEN fabric using recycled cotton and 
TENCEL™ x Refibra™ Lyocell in unisex workwear styles including jumpsuit, jeans and trucker jacket. Visit the Lenzing booth at Kingpins Amsterdam, April 18-19th, to see this collection.
Carved in Blue caught up with Aylin Erel, Baykan Moda’s creative director, who discussed responsible denim production, the latest eco-conscious jean washing technologies and how Turkey plays a crucial role in shaping up denim’s circular future.
Carved in Blue: Can you tell us a little more about your company?
Aylin: Baykan Moda is a denim garment manufacturer that produces for European and American brands for almost 30 years. Our total sewing, stitching, washing and finishing capacity is over 7 million per year. Also, we are well-known in denim industry for our collections and design innovations.
Carved in Blue: Who are some of your customers? What regions do you ship garments?
Aylin: We work with all the well-known fast fashion retailers like Inditex Group and Arcadia Group. Also, we have customers like s. Oliver, Motivi and Miroglio Group.
Carved in Blue: What type of equipment do you have?
Aylin: We have latest technology cutting/sewing/washing/laser machines, as well as ozone machines.
Carved in Blue: What are your sustainability initiatives? How do you incorporate laser and ozone?
Aylin: Two years ago, we decided to invest in sustainable production equipment. With our total dedication, we changed all our washing machines with new sustainable systems. With this investment now, we are able to save up to 90 percent less water and chemicals in all our production. We have the unique technology of ‘0’ Chemical authentic wash.
Carved in Blue: Why do you like working with fabrics using TENCEL™ and TENCEL™ x Refibra™ branded lyocell?
Aylin: We do believe in collaborative approach so we combine our sustainable innovations with yarn and fabric technologies. That’s why we collaborate with Lenzing to reach ultimate sustainable results.
We believe sustainable fashion is the only way for our future. And each day; fabric mills, garment producers, laundries, brands and the most important thing is consumers realize the importance of it. Baykan Moda has proudly made their investments on new technology sustainable laundry solutions such as laser, ozone and washing machines. But is sustainable washing enough? Nothing is ever enough and collaborative creations are the key to sustainable innovations. That’s why we are so excited to make this capsule collection together with Lenzing. We used ‘0’ fresh cotton denim from Candiani, which has 50% recycled cotton and 50% TENCEL™ x Refibra™ Lyocell and washed the garments with our ‘0’ Chemical wash Technology to be able to catch the maximum sustainable results.
As a 15 years of experienced designer, I believe design and styling is also key to responsible fashion. In this capsule collection we made ungendered products that are inspired by vintage shapes and modernized in a simple way to be able to create timeless products
Carved in Blue: How is the current textile market situation in Turkey?
Aylin: Turkey is a very important country in global denim sourcing industry. Therefore, we have the responsibility to drive the industry in responsible production and value added products. With the right mindset, Turkey will keep its position and even improve in global aspect.
Carved in Blue: What innovations in garment making and laundry techniques do you see in the next 5-10 years?
Aylin: As we all are aware, sustainable production is not going to be a choice in the near future, it will be essential. And I must say I feel proud that we are ready.
Carved in Blue: What is the oldest jean you still wear?
Aylin: My ‘70s vintage Wranglers that I found in the U.S. on one of my inspiration trips.
Carved in Blue: What is your favorite city?
Aylin: Tokyo is one of my favorite cities – the culture, people, food…and the refined aesthetic. Such an experience! Every time you find more and more and more.
Carved in Blue: What does Carved in Blue mean to you?
Aylin: Every company has their own specialties and handwriting, that’s why I believe collaboration is very important to be able to share the experience and knowledge. And for me, Carved in Blue is an important platform that connects the denim industry.