05 Nov 2024

Behind the brand: Jenneskens

By: Dorian Heetman Comments: 0

We recently visited the Jenneskens headquarters to interview founder Kimberley Jenneskens and to take some pictures. We discussed the brand’s inspiration, sustainability practices, and the balance between functionality and style—and more. This interview is part of our pop-up event at Studio S, from 7-11 November. Interview starts below.

What inspired you to start Jenneskens, and how have your experiences shaped the direction of the brand?
I’ve always found technical wear the most exciting thing to create—it offers constant developments and an ever-changing environment while considering and integrating so many elements all at once. When I started studying at Parsons NYC, which was exactly 10 years ago, I realized that I do love high-end fashion design but that I don’t love fashion in general. With that I mean, I love the technical side of things, I love prioritizing sustainability, or finding the right fit, blending function with style, see how we can do things better. But I do want it to all feel very realistic, usable, as something of the future. Something that no one has really ever seen before.

Additionally, while I am a city girl, I do love the outdoors. Blending those worlds, especially through technical wear, felt like the perfect way to bring utility and style together. And that’s how jenneskens started.

I want jenneskens to grow into so much more than just a clothing line—it’s a reflection of a personal journey. I always aim for jenneskens to convey a sense of authenticity, where each piece tells a part of that story while inviting others to make it a part of their own. The direction of jenneskens remains fluid and ever-evolving, shaped by new experiences and the ongoing conversation with our customers.

Sustainability is at the core of Jenneskens. Can you walk us through your production process and the steps you take to minimize environmental impact?
Sustainability drives everything we do at jenneskens, from start to finish. We’re careful with material choices, prioritizing recycled, regenerative or organic fabrics that hold up over time. Each piece is designed with versatility in mind, so it becomes a go-to instead of just a passing trend. We stand for a perfect unisex fit that works for all bodies, and a fit that evolves as a body and style evolve as well. That’s why a lot of our items are adjustable and are multiple sizes in one.

Our production process is streamlined to minimize waste, and we work closely with manufacturers who share our values. From low-impact dyes to responsible packaging, we look at every detail to reduce our footprint. For us, it’s about making gear that lasts in every aspect and being transparant in how we do this.

We’ve recently introduced our rental program - offering customers the opportunity to try pieces without the full commitment, extending the life of each item and reducing overall consumption.

Interview continues below

Your designs are minimalist and technical yet practical for everyday use. How do you balance functionality with aesthetics in each collection?
Balancing functionality with aesthetics is what defines jenneskens. We start with a minimalist base—clean lines, simple forms, excellent unisex fits—then build in technical details that add real value, like hidden pockets or weather-resistant fabrics. Every element has to earn its place; if it doesn’t add function, it doesn’t make the cut.

The result is gear that’s visually sleek yet totally practical for everyday use. It’s about creating pieces that look sharp and perform, without compromising on either side.

Jenneskens strives to create pieces that last, both in quality and style. What does timelessness mean to you, and how does it influence your designs?

Timelessness, to me, means creating pieces that feel relevant today and ten years down the line. At jenneskens, that means focusing on quality fabrics, durable construction, and a design style that’s understated but distinct. Trends come and go, but timeless pieces have a way of fitting into any moment without feeling dated.

This influences everything we do—each piece is built to last, both in look and wear. It’s about creating a wardrobe that feels grounded, adaptable, and genuinely built to withstand time.

Interview continues below

How do you choose materials, especially considering your focus on recycled or scientifically backed fabrics?

Choosing materials is a careful process at jenneskens. We prioritize recycled and scientifically advanced fabrics that meet our standards for durability and sustainability. Every material we use has to feel good, perform well, and align with our values. We look for fabrics with proven benefits—whether it’s recycled fibers, organic sources, or tech-forward materials designed to last. Additionally, we prefer lightweight options that offer an all-seater performance. We also extensively test all of the materials we use in our collection to make sure that we only make products that we can fully commit to.

This focus means each piece isn’t just made to look good; it’s built with purpose and backed by materials that make a difference.

Jenneskens values transparency and traceability in the supply chain. Why is this important to you, and how do you communicate this information to your customers?
Transparency and traceability are core values at Jenneskens because they’re key to building trust and accountability. Knowing exactly where our materials come from and how they’re made means we can ensure ethical practices and consistent quality. It’s about responsibility—not just to our customers but to everyone involved in bringing a product to life. For us, this is the next step in more sustainable fashion.

We communicate this openly by sharing detailed information on our sourcing and production processes, from fabric origins to factory partnerships. Whether it’s on our website or through direct conversations, we want our customers to know the journey behind each piece they wear.

We have a long way to go, but are exciting to take everyone on the journey with us.

Interview continues below

What do you hope people feel or experience when they wear Jenneskens, and how is this experience different from other pieces in their wardrobe?

When people wear jenneskens, I hope they feel a sense of confidence and comfort, knowing they have quality, versatile pieces that work in any setting—whether they’re in the city or out in nature. Each item is designed to blend seamlessly into their lives, providing practicality without sacrificing style.

What sets jenneskens apart is that these pieces are built for longevity and adaptability. They’re investments in a wardrobe that evolves with you. I want our customers to feel empowered by their choices—wearing something that not only looks good but also reflects their values and lifestyle.

What can we expect from Jenneskens in the future? Are there specific projects or innovations you’re excited to explore or introduce?
In the future, we’re committed to making our products as traceable as possible, so customers can understand the journey of each item they wear. We are strongly focused on circularity—aiming to turn old products into new ones. This could mean developing take-back programs where customers can return worn items for recycling or repurposing.

Additionally, we’re excited about unexpected collaborations that bring fresh perspectives to our designs. Partnering with brands and innovators will allow us to explore new ideas while staying true to our sustainable mission. Our goal is to minimize waste and maximize the lifecycle of our pieces, creating a system where everything has a purpose and every collaboration inspires new creativity.

End of interview