Best Sustainable & Ethical Bathing Suit Brands

Everybody wants to live sustainably and with environmental awareness. But this summer, we also want to feel attractive and confident in our bathing suits.

But you don't have to give up one for the other! Here are some fantastic companies who make an effort to source their goods using ethically and sustainably produced materials.

It's time to start considering bathing suits because summer is quickly approaching. For other folks, this can include visiting Target for a cheap one-piece or placing an online order. However, there are a tonne of moral and eco-friendly choices available.

Where can you find the top ethical and sustainable swimwear companies? We've done all the legwork and found some time-worthy businesses that are truly exceptional.

There are some ethically superior sustainable swimwear companies on the market. However, there is obviously a lot of disagreement over what makes one brand more ethical or sustainable than another. However, some companies have extremely explicit criteria and intents for ethics and sustainability.

You can check out the following ethical and environmentally friendly bathing suit brands to find your perfect fit! Naturally, this is by no means a comprehensive list, so if there is a business that isn't here that you believe should be, please let us know!

Shopping for a bathing suit might be challenging. Finding a product that meets your needs and preferences might be challenging given the wide range of possibilities available.

Fortunately, there are several eco-friendly swimwear companies out there that are concerned about what they're doing to assist preserve our environment! Here are my top selections for ethical and sustainable swimwear manufacturers.

The bathing suit that flatters you might seem like the finest option, but what about the impact it has on the environment? The clothing decisions we make can have a significant impact on both us and future generations. What are some of the top ethical and environmentally friendly swimwear companies?

Is the chlorine water making your bathing suit green? Are you trying to find a bathing suit company that is ethical and sustainable? Consequently, you are in the proper place. You can see some of my favourite brands here that are good for both the environment and your body.

These businesses provide eco-friendly clothing as well as cosy suits with adorable patterns. Continue reading to learn more about each firm if you're still unsure about which one is perfect for you, or click here to view all of their styles in one location.

Although bathing suits are a summertime necessity, it can be challenging to find ones that are ethically and sustainably produced. Check out the following brands on your next shopping excursion.

Let's get going!

The Most Flattering Swimwear For Every Body Type

We've made a commitment to put an end to the stress and anxiety that come with bikini and swimwear buying.

We're assisting in making sense of the seemingly limitless swimwear selections and whittling them down to the picks that were created to suit and flatter your figure, from curvier frames to athletic body types. Are you curious about what to look for?

Particularly in this day of excess, buying swimwear can be a stressful, time-consuming, and mentally exhausting experience.

Without even entering the changing room, the very concept of the plethora of available designs, shapes, trends, price points, in-store locations, and online shopping options can cause your brain to explode (or opening all of those online orders).

But picture doing your job while dressed in a bathing suit. Does that make the procedure any simpler? If it's any comfort at all, evidently not.

We asked this question of a group of Sports Illustrated swimsuit models, who are some of the most skilled, on-the-front-lines, or more precisely, on-gorgeous-white-sand-beaches, professionals (mic drop). Spoiler alert: they too may find it challenging to go bikini shopping.

Kate Upton tells Glamour during the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit on Location celebration of the magazine's 2019 edition that "honestly, I think swimwear is one of the hardest things to accomplish." "I usually think that the emotionally most difficult items to try on are jeans and swimsuits."

Danielle Herrington, who posed for the Swimsuit Issue cover the year before, advises entering with an open mind. Take care of yourself! Swimwear designer, model, and advocate for body positivity Tara Lynn concurs: "The best course of action is to simply wear whatever makes you feel the most comfortable. You could be surprised by what makes you feel most beautiful."

The swimsuit models in Sports Illustrated's 2019 class are diverse in terms of age, shape, size, and background. Tyra Banks came out of retirement to grace the issue's cover, and Halima Aden made history by being the first model to pose in modest swimwear.

They have also spent hundreds of hours (if not more) swimming in bikinis, one-pieces, and burkinis, so they have some knowledge of the water. So, we asked them for their professional guidance on how to try on clothing and find the ideal fit and style to make us look our best and, more importantly, feel our most confident.

Ask yourself: "What would Upton, Banks, Lynn, Lais Ribiero, Kelsey Merritt, or Winnie Harlow do?" the next time you find yourself unable to make a decision or feeling overpowered by your options while looking for bathing suits.

1. Straps can make or break your suit

As the first African American solo cover model, Banks made history in 1997. She's also come to appreciate swimsuit tops with sturdy shoulder straps over the years.

She explains that because of her breast, she experiences chafing when a string is at the back of her neck. (A necktie that is wider works as well.)

Three-time Swimsuit Issue cover girl Upton recommends a tieless halter top: So I can actually take use of my beach day. I can swim, snorkel, and spend time with my daughter.

2. Same goes for the edges of a swimsuit

Lynn advises paying attention to the fabric and fit of your one- or two-piece outfit. Any anything with a particularly sharp edge may irritate any tender regions by cutting into them, according to the woman.

3. Not all one-pieces are created equal

I genuinely believe that a one-piece makes me appear better than a two-piece, claims Banks. There's something about a one-piece that makes me feel more powerful. Additionally, having one adds adaptability, allowing you to transition, say, from the beach to cocktails.

However, not every one-piece trend—low back, strapless, or extremely strappy—will flatter every body type. Upton cautions, "Cute one-pieces for big-boobed girls with open backs...that doesn't roll with us." However, there are choices.

To balance support in the front, Banks suggests, for instance, looking for a one-piece with a covered-back or high-back feature. When you have a large breast, straps on each shoulder work just as well as a knot around the neck.

The first Filipina model to walk the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show runway and appear in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue, Kelsey Merritt, suggests suits with a belt or a wrap tie at the waist to add dimension if you want to draw attention to the waist.

4. Everyone can benefit from an underwire, regardless of bust size

No matter what your bra size, an underwire-lined top can provide some extra support or even a slight boost. Because his boobs "get all over the place," Herrington also prefers modest padding. Currently, a very popular trend in swim is visible underwires. "Trying a corset style, especially with tiny little straps," advises Merritt.

5. With separates, try (and buy) different sizes

Because she has hips and isn't very muscular, Banks makes it a point to "choose a bottom that's slightly too big in size because suits that are too tight dig into my flesh and block off my blood circulation," she says.

She advises locating a bikini bottom with side ties so you can adjust it to sit directly on top of your hips without cutting into them.

6. Consider modest swimwear to cover up beyond SPF

Wearing modest swimwear—or a variant on it—might make sense for you, whether it's for cultural reasons or because sun damage is a serious problem. Picking hues, prints, and other design components that suit your preferences and demands can let you "truly treat it like a bikini," advises Aden.

She advises searching for a more flexible, stretchy material that won't stand out too much in the water. Don't be scared of the accessories either; layer up with bright scarves, overalls, or cover-ups; wear jewellery; experiment with headgear; and go all out with the sunglasses.

Aden predicts that they will change it from a bodysuit to "Oh, she did not come to play."

7. Don’t fear the high-cut leg…

In recent years, the hipbone-baring silhouette from the 1980s has returned. Banks believes the appearance reminds her of Elle Macpherson. "That's everything to me, and it lengthens the legs," the speaker said. Even Merritt, a diminutive woman, advises trying one with a "low back but not extremely high" back for that lengthening effect.

8. …or the neon trend.

Vicky's Secret The swimwear trend Angel Ribeiro is most eager to explore this summer is neon. It makes your tan stand out, making it appear as though you've been in the sun for a very long period.

But of course, Upton shares the same enthusiasm for the craze as everyone else we spoke with: "It's very fun, especially with a spray tan." Of course, Merritt wants green and pink, perhaps with a dash of leopard print for extra oomph.

9. Keep an eye on the details

Any trends that have affected swimwear over the years are exposed to these models. And they don't hesitate to incorporate some of the enjoyable, whimsical aspects that are now featured on all of your one-pieces and bikinis.

And neither should you. What is Winnie Harlow's advice? She claims that ruches always make the butt appear cute.

10. Make swimsuit shopping a group activity

Bring along "one of your best companions, who can pump you up and get you trying on things that are outside the box," advises Lynn, if you're shopping your swimsuit in person. Make sure she is someone you can rely on to provide honest, supportive criticism, such as "This looks good" or "No, don't buy that," advises Herrington.

11. If you prefer to shop online, patience is key

Online shopping is underestimated, according to Lynn. Customers who felt they weren't being catered to—because of their price, size, etc.—were given additional options over time by online-only swimwear manufacturers.

However, it might be challenging to determine what will fit you and what won't. To properly see oneself wearing the suit, Lynn advises "finding a retailer who employs models with your body type [online]."

She claims that Upton typically "gets a million different sizes [to try on]". She advises always reading the fine print and return policy, saying she'll "start with the biggest size and go down."

Greenwashing: Ethical Fashion Says NO To Greenwash

What is Greenwashing?

It would seem inevitable that the "green movement" will ultimately reach its peak given how quickly fashion trends come and go.

Films, documentaries, and street protests all served to highlight how urgent it is to adopt new viewpoints on the environment, human health, and a better life for our offspring.

Suddenly, celebrities began yelling about the state of the earth as they exited a vegan eatery wearing less well-known eco-friendly clothing. Then everything went nuts!

When the trend first emerged, brands recognised the need to incorporate it into their offerings. But marketing had a major role in this declaration, signalling their quick shift towards introducing sustainable and ethical manners.

The majority of this transformation, however, never occurred throughout the product's production, turning it into deceptive advertising or "greenwashing" in the end.

Be alert!

Before you make a purchase from an environmentally friendly brand, you should consider the validity of the claim. You should make sure you are paying the right and fair price for eco-friendly goods because they can be more expensive.

Customers must learn to recognise the truth behind this deceptive advertising in order to distress the brand by undermining its principles, reputation, and sales.

Being aware of issues like rapid fashion, the climate catastrophe, and animal exploitation is amazing and life-changing, but you need always be on the lookout for dishonest propaganda that aims to mislead and persuade you to purchase things that violate ethical norms.

Sustainable and moral behaviour ought to be the norm rather than the exception.

Eco-Friendly Swimwear Brands (20+)

Here's something to keep in mind when looking for eco-friendly swimming suits:

Since sustainable swimwear is frequently difficult to acquire, many customers choose quick fashion substitutes instead.

They're made of (allegedly) quality materials and will last for numerous holidays, so it's tempting to do that, isn't it?

But that's not the case, regrettably. You and I both are aware of that.

Fast fashion stores typically sell swimwear that isn't made to last. It turns out to be a foolish buy because it is made of low-quality materials and is also harmful to the environment.

So why not explore for some sustainable options rather than buying swimwear that will end up in a trash after a few uses?

There are many fantastic sustainable swimwear brands available, regardless of your financial situation.

You cannot obtain any produced without synthetic materials derived from petrochemicals. I apologise. The brands that are largely made of natural materials like hemp and modal are listed below. However, they still have some synthetic fibres in them for stretch.

You may have seen some cotton crocheted bikinis, however as the cotton in the crochet gets wet, it expands out. Trust me. When I complained about mine to the manufacturer, they responded that it shouldn't get wet. Oh! OK. So it's merely ornamental?

As a result, several ethical bathing suit manufacturers are now using synthetic materials created from recycled plastic. The most often used material is ECONYL, a premium Italian fibre created by recycling nylon fishing nets, textile scraps, and old carpets. Others use polyester derived from PET plastic bottles that have been recycled.

Additionally, you should consider the textile's printing location (Europe or the US is great), the bathing suit's manufacturing location (a certified fair factory is preferable), and the packaging the business employs, such as polybags made of recyclable or compostable materials.

Additionally, some manufacturers have the OEKO-TEX certification, which indicates that the bathing suit has undergone testing and been deemed toxin-free.

You're in luck because more companies are starting to appear that employ recycled textiles and other ethical and environmental manufacturing methods. So there's no reason to give up on your personal style.

1. Remnant

Remnant is a high-end, eco-friendly swimwear company with headquarters in Los Angeles that uses recycled nylon to make its designs.

Its salvaged nylon is made from abandoned fishing nets, plastic that has found its way into the ocean, and textile scraps that go through a difficult regeneration process to form a soft, long-lasting fabric. Bali is where the bikinis from Remnant are made.

In addition to receiving free lunches at work and doubling the minimum wage, the company pays its seamstresses' health insurance premiums. Additionally, the goods from Remainder as well as the shipping bags are approved for home composting and biodegradation.

All of the dyes used to create the cloth and packaging are safe for the environment and devoid of toxins. These dyes don't release toxic gases when they degrade since they are water- or soy-based rather than petroleum-based.

2. REVVV SWIM

Cristina Aguayo, a veteran of the fashion industry, founded the sustainable active swimwear company REVVV SWIM in New York City.

Aguayo, a lifelong swimmer and outdoors enthusiast, came up with the concept after searching for a go-to sustainable, stylish, and sporty swimsuit but being unsuccessful. A versatile one-piece suit made by REVVV SWIM that is appropriate for both the beach and the city combines style and agility.

The company's one-piece suit is traditional, timeless, and produced entirely from recycled nylon.

3. Bower

Bower is a swim and resort wear company that was established in 2015. Since 2019, Bower has donated 1% of each order to the Healthy Seas campaign to clean up the oceans.

The business decides to manufacture in Europe in order to frequently inspect the area and ensure that all workers are paid in accordance with EU regulations and have a safe workplace. Additionally, ECONYL yarn is used to create all of its swim fabric.

Its shipping boxes are 100% recyclable and made from 70% recycled fibres. In addition, the Eco Packaging Alliance has recognised that the tissue paper's provider planted trees as part of the worldwide reforestation effort in areas that needed it.

4. Wolven

OEKO-TEX-certified recycled PET plastic bottles and carbon-neutral modal fabric are used to create the athleisure and swimwear collections from Wolven.

Additionally, it collaborates with NativeEnergy to offset the environmental impact of its operations and pick more environmentally friendly shipping packaging.

The WCA has accredited its Chinese manufacturing partner's labour, salary, work hours, health, safety, and environmental policies.

5. Ansea

Ansea is a company that specialises in eco-friendly clothing for female sea lovers. Wetsuits, swimsuits, and upscale loungewear are all part of its line and are made from eco-friendly materials.

Yulex, a Neoprene substitute derived from plants, is used to make the wetsuits, and its production results in 80% less CO2 than Neoprene. The swimwear is created from ECONYL, a recycled form of nylon derived from waste fabric, fishing nets from the sea, and industrial plastic.

The company manufactures its lines in New York City while adhering to stringent labour laws and environmentally friendly procedures.

6. Girlfriend Collective

Girlfriend Collective, known for its inclusive and eco-friendly sportswear, creates swimsuits with ECONYL, regenerated nylon, and elastane.

All of its packaging is recyclable and recycled. Its main manufacturing facility is located in Hanoi, Vietnam, and is SA8000 accredited, which ensures fair salaries, secure working conditions, and a complete absence of child or forced labour.

7. For the Dreamers

The majority of the swimwear for the Dreamers is made of ECONYL, a regenerated nylon created from pre- and post-consumer waste like old carpets destined for landfills, fishing nets from the sea and aquaculture, fabric scraps from mills, and other nylon trash.

In order to lessen its influence on the environment, it collaborates with a carbon-neutral shipping firm, employs more eco-friendly label printing equipment, recycled packaging, and biodegradable shipping bags.

Additionally, 5% of each transaction is given to a charity that helps people without access to clean water.

8. Lively

Lively developed their first ever eco-friendly swimwear range for 2020, with suits mostly composed of recycled polyester. The sizes range from XXL to DDD, and the styles are timeless and versatile.

9. Patagonia

Patagonia, a pioneer in sustainability for the past 40 years, produces swimwear from a blend of 83% recycled polyester and 17% spandex that is both soft and resilient. In factories with Fair Trade certification, all of the sewing is done.

10. Vitamin A

Many of Vitamin A's ultra-sexy swimsuits are produced in California using EcoLuxTM fabric, a combination of LYCRA® XTRA LIFETM and Repreve® RECYCLED nylon fibre for a subtle sheen and exquisite, long-lasting fit.

11. Noize

Noize uses Italian Econyl to make inclusive swimwear. Every body shape can choose between more or less covering in the styles offered by the brand. Customers can select styles in sizes XS to XL as well as a plus-size assortment that extends to 3X.

12. Mara Hoffman

These swimming suits are made in the US from Italian recycled polyester/spandex fabric and have SPF50 incorporated right into their vibrant, patterned textiles.

13. OOKIOH

"Modern swimwear with a dash of nostalgia" is what OOKIOH creates. The materials are all recycled and come from an Italian factory (meaning they come from the ocean and post-consumer waste). Within the next two years, the company plans to completely phase out virgin plastic from its system.

14. Miga Swimwear

The disability, chronic illness, and disfigurement communities served as inspiration for MIGA's one- and two-piece bathing suits, which are intended to be worn by everyone.

The MIGA team consults with locals to create its colourful swimwear while keeping comfort in mind throughout the design process. Its fabric, which was produced in Italy, is SPF 50 and created from recycled polyamide yarn. MIGA also uses packaging that is 100 percent recycled.

15. Vivida

The swimsuit produced by Vivida is distributed in biodegradable bags and is produced transparently using largely post-consumer recycled garbage and a small amount of spandex. The phrase "Viva la Vida," which "serves as a daily reminder to be grateful for this wonderful, lovely life," is the source of the phrase's name.

16. Carolina K

Argentinian designer Carolina Kleinman founded the Latin American lifestyle company Carolina K. Her items are produced by craftsmen in isolated regions of Mexico, Peru, and India. She is known for her distinctive patterns and is motivated by a desire to conserve the artisanal traditions of indigenous peoples. All of the material used to make Carolina K swimming suits is recycled nylon, or ECONYL.

17. Jade Swim

Jade Swim is a sustainable swimsuit brand that uses deadstock fibres as well as Econyl, recycled nylon created from fishnets and other ocean-derived plastic trash. The brand, which is created in Los Angeles and is inspired by New York City, mixes sensual and simplistic aesthetics that are readily translated into ready-to-wear.

18. Hunza G

In order to reduce any potential superfluous fabric consumption, Hunza G's crinkle seersucker nylon and elastane fabric is knit in a nearby mill in the UK's Midlands before being coloured, processed, and dried before being shipped to the brand's Central London studio where each garment is cut and manufactured.

19. Medina Swimwear

The high-end designs by Medina Swimwear are manufactured of ECONYL and may be used again without losing their quality. Additionally, it has items that are chlorine, oil, and sun cream resistant. A portion of each collection's sales is donated by Medina Swimwear to charities devoted to ocean preservation.

20. Casa Raki

The designs of Casa Raki are inspired by South America, created in London, and produced responsibly in Portugal. The company focuses on enhancing and prolonging clothing life while solely using sustainable materials and manufacturing techniques.

Its components are constructed of ECONYL, recycled nylon made from discarded fabric, fishing nets from the sea, and industrial plastic.

21. Ayla Swim

ECONYL is used by Ayla Swim to make its adaptable designs. Working with two little boutique factories in Bali enables the company to be flexible with order amounts and prevent stock waste.

22. Fisch

One of the first companies to employ ECONYL was FISCH, which was introduced in 2017. The brand was motivated by the Creative Director's early experiences snorkelling and discovering the island's wildlife on Saint Barthélemy. Each item is manufactured by hand in Italy using Lombardy-woven fabric to offer the finest quality while reducing carbon emissions.

23. Galamaar

Galamaar is a classic swimsuit brand for the modern woman, established in 2017. made in Los Angeles, California, using textiles that are good for the environment, including ECONYL.

24. Arrow + Phoenix

Los Angeles-based Arrow + Phoenix, a sustainable swimwear brand with 90s influences, was founded in 2012. It emphasises diversity and size inclusivity, offering bra cups in the range of A to H. The brand uses ECONYL, an Italian eco-luxe fibre made from recycled nylon, in its creations.

25. Natasha Tonic

The eco-friendly, natural hemp fabric used to make Natasha Tonic's swimwear is antibacterial, UV resistant, long-lasting, and better for the environment as well as your skin. Additionally, its suits can be worn as lingerie, bodysuits, or athletics. They are made locally in Los Angeles, California, where they are also coloured and stitched.

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