At Bastet Noir, we recognize that a living wage is a fundamental human right. We define a living wage as a remuneration that is sufficient to afford a decent standard of living for the worker and their family, covering basic needs such as food, housing, healthcare, education, transport, and allowing for some discretionary income. This goes beyond minimum wage, which often does not meet the actual cost of living in many regions.

How We Ensure Living Wages Are Paid

Our entire production process is based in North Macedonia, where we partner directly with a small network of women-owned ateliers and independent seamstresses, many of whom are single mothers. Because of our localized, made-to-order model, we maintain a short and transparent supply chain and are able to monitor and guarantee fair compensation in real time.

Key measures we take:

• Weekly Site Visits: A member of the Bastet Noir team visits each atelier and tailor every week, offering consistent oversight of working conditions and payment practices.
• Above-Market Compensation: We pay our seamstresses rates that are significantly above the local minimum wage. Rates are set according to garment complexity and time required, ensuring that every worker earns enough to live with dignity.
• Direct Financial Relationships: Because we work without intermediaries, we have full visibility and control over how and when our workers are paid. Payments are made promptly, and always in full, at the end of each month. 
• Internal Tracking and Documentation: We keep transparent records of all wages paid, which are reviewed monthly to ensure alignment with local living wage benchmarks. Where available, we cross-reference with local wage estimates from credible third-party sources.
• Social Impact Focus: Our brand mission is rooted in empowering women through economic independence. Our payment practices are central to this, helping our tailors support their families, invest in their own micro-businesses, and improve their quality of life.

This model allows us to go beyond compliance and actively build equity into every garment we produce.