The Ultimate Guide to Ethical and Sustainable Swimwear
Here is the definitive guide to ethical and environmentally friendly swimwear. This page has all the details you require if you're searching for a new bikini or tankini set.
We'll talk to some of our favourite businesses who produce exquisite items using thoughtful design principles. When it's time for an upgrade, we'll also provide some advice on how to responsibly discard your old suit.
Read on for advice if you want to purchase a swimsuit this summer but don't want to add to the problems caused by cheap disposable clothing. The market for eco-friendly swimwear is increasing, but what does that actually mean?
It implies that there are many environmentally friendly solutions available. You can therefore choose the ideal suit for your upcoming beach day, regardless of your taste or price range. Whether you're looking for something sporty, fashionable, or boho, our guide has got you covered!
If you're on the market for a new swimsuit, you might be wondering how to locate one that is both morally and environmentally sound. You'll get all the information you need in this blog post to choose your next buy wisely!
It's summertime, and you want to get a new bathing suit. We've all been there. You enter the store but are unable to locate anything that prevents you from feeling as though your money is a waste. Also, the costs!
The least expensive suits cost more than $20, and some go for far over $100! What then do we do? We never stop seeking for solutions that will benefit us both economically and environmentally. Finding ethical and environmentally friendly swimwear shouldn't break the bank or have a negative impact on the environment, which is why this guide was created.
You may not be aware that there are so many different types of swimwear available. While one brand may be more environmentally friendly than another, it may not have the desired style. You can choose the ideal sustainable and ethical swimwear for your lifestyle with the aid of the comprehensive guide!
Many people are unaware of how immoral and unsustainable the swimwear industry is on a worldwide scale.
The bulk of swimwear is comprised of synthetic materials, which may be harmful to your health. You may have all of your questions concerning ethical and environmentally friendly swimwear answered in this blog post!
Which fabrics should I stay away from? Why? What if I still want to purchase a suit? What names ought I to search for instead? How can I tell which type best suits me? Where can I buy these outfits locally or online?" These are only a few of the numerous queries that this blog post will address.
Let's get going!
Common sustainability problems in swimwear
For those of us who spend our whole lives outside, including myself, it's easy to overdo it by stuffing our drawers with the newest fashion statement. But sadly, swimwear also has another issue with sustainability in addition to falling victim to the quick fashion cycle: plastic.
Because they remove moisture from the body and stretch to fit the body, synthetic materials like nylon, polyester, and spandex are ideal for swimwear because they lessen friction in the water. The fashion industry mainly relies on them since they are also adaptable and affordable to produce, used not only for swimwear but also for activewear, outerwear, and other low-cost, fast-fashion clothing.
This is a significant concern because plastic never decomposes, which makes it problematic throughout the whole production process, from the release of microfibres during washing to the disposal of the garment at the end of its useful life.
Fortunately, the finest method for maintaining your swimwear—gentle hand washing—is also the best method for minimising microfibre emissions. Additionally, it makes the most sense because swimwear is typically worn for a relatively little length of time and shouldn't frequently need to be machine washed!
Eco-friendly bikini materials
Thankfully, there are alternatives to the harmful polymers that are used to make the majority of swimsuits.
Eco-friendly materials, like ECONYL, developed by the Italian company Aquafil, employ synthetic waste, including waste fabric, fishing nets from the ocean, industrial plastic, and waste textiles, and recycle and regenerate them to make new nylon yarn that is precisely the same quality as virgin nylon.
Even better, other swimsuit companies are addressing this demand by inventing and producing their luxurious materials from recycled nylon fibres or other natural substitutes.
Brands That Are Making The Biggest Splash In Sustainable Bikinis
1. Elle Evans
Rated: Great
For the price of one, get two. I'm present! In Melbourne, Australia, Elle Evans develops, prints, and produces its exquisite creations. The Elle Evans team decided they would be doing things a little bit differently after becoming overwhelmed by the effects of the industry they had worked in and loved for years.
The brand has always used the opulent Vita ECONYL®, a regenerated nylon created from 100% nylon waste from landfills and oceans.
Every collection, which includes a tonne of sustainable bikinis, is made magical by careful attention to detail, cutting-edge styles, and its trademark designs inspired by nature. Sizes XS through 3XL of Elle Evans' swimwear are available.
2. Underprotection
Rated: Good
Underprotection is a Danish company that makes underwear, loungewear, and swimwear from eco-friendly fabrics like organic cotton and recycled polyester.
Its paper, polybags, and packaging are all recyclable or biodegradable. Additionally, it exclusively employs factories that have received certification since it regards "decent working conditions and fair compensation as human rights."
The purpose of Underprotection is to celebrate women of various shapes and sizes and to help them feel as attractive and at ease as possible. The Adrianna Bikini Bra has a ribbed structure, a soft recycled polyester fabric, and a vibrant lime colour.
The bra includes two adjustable straps and detachable padding, which helps it stay up well. The whole collection is available in sizes XS–XL.
3. Loop Swim
Rated: Good
Chinese company Loop Swim creates incredible REPREVE UP50+ UV protection swimwear for men, women, and children from recycled plastic bottles. Most products are available in sizes XS to XL.
4. Organic Basics
Rated: Great
For both men and women, Organic Basics offers sustainable, high-quality wardrobe basics made from organic materials. The Danish company prioritises sustainability in all decisions; it only selects materials that consider the environment and only collaborates with firms that consider their impact.
This adorable Re-Swim bikini top is part of the recently introduced swimwear line that is produced from recycled plastic from landfills and oceans. Sizes XS to XL are available for Organic Basics clothing.
5. allSisters
Rated: Good
Never again will you compromise sex for sustainability! This two-toned black and white ethical bikini with wide shoulder straps, a square neckline, and a longline design was made for goddesses of all kinds and provides full coverage, support, and comfort.
Wear it to the beach, the gym, or even just as a fashion statement. It was purposefully made using luxurious recycled fabrics that have the OEKO-TEX® certified.
The Barcelona-based company also raises money for the nonprofit organisation Surfers Against Sewage, which works to safeguard biodiversity and fights plastic pollution in our oceans. Sizing ranges from XS to XL.
6. NIKIN
Rated: Good
Look no further if you're the sort of person who likes to flaunt their morals. Every time you buy an NIKIN product, a tree is not only planted, but you can also display your genuine pride! The cosy Treekini Top is created in Europe from recycled marine and industrial plastic! Products come in sizes XS through XL.
7. The Nude Label
Rated: Good
For both men and women, The Nude Label handpicks soft cotton undergarments and swimsuits that look as beautiful as they feel. We adore the newest addition from The Nude Label: this supporting bikini top is constructed from recycled nylon and boasts adjustable shoulder straps, a soft underbust band, and UV-protective, quick-drying fabric. sizes XS to L are available throughout the whole range.
8. Stay Wild
Rated: Good
You've come to the perfect place if you want to expand your capsule wardrobe. Natalie Glaze and Zanna Van Dijk founded the swimwear company Stay Wild, which is situated in London.
The brand's capsule collection has a sports-luxe look with a thick strapped bikini top and a high waist bottom for a firm fit and feel. It is intended to be flattering, feminine, and practical.
You can confidently get all the coverage thanks to the slightly cheeky cut! Sizes 6 to 18 are available for the collections.
9. la fille d’O
Rated: Good
"The daughter of O," also known as "La Fille d'O," is the voice of a generation. With the intention of setting an example, designer Murielle Scherre founded this underwear and swimming company in 2003.
The company manufactures locally, uses slow fashion principles, and creates durable goods. CHANGES is a line of lingerie and swimwear that provides the finest support and appearance in and out of the water. Sizes 1-6 for bottoms and 1-9 (A-G) for tops are offered (XS-3XL).
10. Natasha Tonic
Rated: Good
Hemp-based swimwear? Please, yes. Polyester, which is non-biodegradable and harmful to the skin, has been used to make swimsuits for many years. The fabric used in Natasha Tonic's hemp swimwear is based on a special, natural hemp fibre that is antimicrobial, UV resistant, long lasting, and better for your skin and the oceans.
Better yet, because each piece is manually printed, it varies slightly from the next, making each eco-friendly bikini uniquely designed for the most stunning you! Sizes XS through L are available in their collections.
11. Sage Larock
Rated: Good
Sage Larock is a sustainable luxury business that creates chic swimwear in-house with a small crew in Los Angeles.
A portion of the proceeds from each sale goes to organisations dedicated to marine conservation, and its gorgeous pieces are crafted from high-quality, long-lasting Italian recycled plastic fabric! Most items are available in sizes XS to L.
12. Vitamin A
Rated: Great
Stunning, elegant, and eco-friendly? You nailed it. Sustainable swimwear has been transformed by Vitamin A, a locally produced product in California. Amahlia Stevens, the company's founder, recognised the demand for recycled plastic swimwear.
When she started looking into the possibilities, however, fabric suppliers informed her that there was "no market" for swimwear made from recycled fibres. As a result, she made the decision to design the fabric herself, working with the best mills in Italy, Canada, and California to create EcoLuxTM—the first premium swim fabric made from recycled nylon fibres.
Since then, the company has added a number of additional eco-friendly and high-performance textiles, including organic cotton, linen, recycled cotton, and Tencel®. Additionally, every material has received certification that it complies with the global Oeko-Tex standard for safe textiles! Swimwear is available in sizes XS–XL.
13. Patagonia
Rated: Good
A company that truly lives and breathes the vast outdoors is Patagonia.
This reversible sustainable bikini surf top, which comes in a variety of colours, has exquisite straps in the back and ruching at the bust to give it a lovely appearance while providing all-day support.
Patagonia employs recycled polyester rather than virgin polyester and upholds strict labour laws. Additionally, it has promised to cut back on energy use and emissions. The entire series is available in sizes XS to XL.
14. Conscious Swimwear
Rated: Good
Every trend without any negatives. In the company's atelier in Lisbon, each piece of Conscious Swimwear is cut and sewed by hand. As a result, the models are all restricted by the fabric's availability.
Conscious Swimwear sets a new standard for eco-friendly swimwear with its 78% recycled plastic from ocean garbage and sustainable shipping methods. The majority of goods are available in sizes S to L.
15. Bower
Rated: Good
Bower is a sustainable swimwear and vacation wear brand that debuted in early 2015. Design-driven swimwear with an eye towards the present and a reference to the past is what Bower aspires to provide.
Luxury Italian materials are used in the designs, along with intricate craftsmanship and carefully thought-out detailing. The final product is created in Italy's tiny, specialised facility using parts obtained from France and Italy.
Bower has pledged 1% of all donations to the Healthy Seas programme in addition to the company's commitment to the environment. Swimwear is available in sizes XS through XL.
16. Finisterre
Rated: Good
Finisterre creates useful and environmentally friendly items for those who enjoy the water and was inspired by the needs of tough British surfers.
The Blasius sustainable bikini set is made primarily for use when engaging in physical activity, such as paddle boarding or going surfing.
This set, produced from premium ECONYL® recycled yarn, is styled with a safe racerback design and supported moulded cups to keep you active and comfortable in any wave. Sizes 8 to 16 are available for the entire selection.
17. Spell
Rated: Good
Modern-bohemian fashion label Spell is influenced by exotic locales, antique finds, and fond childhood memories.
Posy Knot Cheeky Pant in peach from the brand is a sweet, medium coverage swim design with a touch of coastal sass.
For a happy and simple-to-wear sustainable swim outfit that is ideal for both ocean dwellers and fans of banana lounges, pair with the Posy Knot Tri Top. Most items come in sizes XS to XL.
18. LONDRĖ
Rated: Good
LONDRĖ is a Canadian minimalist, sustainable swimwear brand making pieces from recycled plastic bottles. So far, LONDRĖ has recycled 90,000 plastic bottles from the streets and beaches of Taiwan!
All water used in the brand's process can be reused and recycled to create the smallest impact possible.
The brand is also creating positive change in our global community, using the business to raise awareness and funds for women's health and environmental initiatives, donating over $10,000 to organisations like Amazon Watch and the Yellow Hammer Fund. Swoon! Most pieces come in sizes XS to 2XL.
19. Mara Hoffman
Rated: Good
Create to inspire, then carefully transform. Mara Hoffman employs eco-friendly materials, such as GOTS certified organic cotton, recycled nylon, and recycled polyester, with a focus on mindful and aware methods, so you can feel good about every item you buy.
There is no exception with this stunning printed high-rise bikini set. Combine with the Lua bikini top in the balconette style for moderate coverage and a gorgeous appearance that is guaranteed to draw attention. Swimwear is available in sizes XS–XL.
20. BAYTHE
Rated: Good
A high-end swimwear and activewear brand called BAYTHE was created at Bondi Beach. It gives women of all body types the comfort, confidence, and subtle sexiness they've always desired in a swimsuit.
This versatile active bikini crop is a simple summer essential designed to move with you all day long.
This bra top was created without wires but yet offers full bust support and is quick-drying, so you may use it as a bra for walking, yoga, Pilates, and barre.
The whole range is available in sizes XS to L.
Tips and Tricks to Find the Best Swimsuit for Your Body Type
1. Best Swimsuits for Large Busts
It's important to have adequate support and coverage for a huge bust. Swimwear with a straight across cut at the top and wide-set straps is one option that works. Additionally, for added support, try a bikini top with an underwire and a substantial chest band.
Shopping for bathing suits may be incredibly unpleasant for someone with a naturally large bust because swimwear rarely provides coverage and never has enough support.
It's hard to find fashionable choices that seem less like a bra and more like a typical bikini top, even though I've found some adorable wired swimwear businesses that specialise in DD+ cup sizing.
Introducing Maxswim by Everything but Water. The greatest non-wired full coverage bikinis I've ever found are available there! They are also both cute and attractive!
There aren't many alternatives because it's a new collection, but finding a bikini that makes me feel confident rather than self-conscious and ashamed on the beach is worth every penny of the (expensive) price.
These are now my go-to brand of bathing suits because I bought two colours of each set.
2. Best Swimsuits for Small Bust
Halter tops and triangle tops can both assist showcase a smaller bust, but ruffles and a wrap style also look great.
You can get convincing cleavage and improve what you already have using underwire suit tops and a minimally padded bra suit. One last piece of advice: stay away from tops with a twist tie front or a pancake bandeau top with hardware.
The benefit of having a smaller breast is that you can wear a one-shoulder suit without worrying about bulging out in the wrong areas! You can shape this elegant monokini anyway you choose with the help of the modest cutouts and adjustable ties at the shoulder and waist.
Push-up cups are available if you need more bust support, but you may also take them out. You'll feel comfortable walking down the beach in this outfit, which is soft and breathable. accessible in sizes S through XL.
Adding frills or bows to your top is one method to make it look better, and this floral bikini is so adorable! This is stylish because to the ribbed bottoms and flirtatious ruffles, but it's also flexible and cosy.
Padded cups will give you some lift at the top, but they are also removeable. So ideal for relaxing by the pool or on a summer vacation! Get this in XS-XXL sizes and more colours.
If you have a tiny bust, a wrap top is another technique to draw attention to your top. The twist-front tankini suit boasts strong, adjustable straps and a cushioned bra for enhanced lift.
The bottoms are subtle, covering just enough without hiding a woman's curves, and the ruching is not only elegant but also slimming. Love it! Additionally offered in several colours and sizes S-XXL.
3. Best Swimsuits for Big Hips
In this instance, the waist and breast are typically smaller than the hips. The finest swimsuits for pear shapes contain some playful top features, such as ruffles or an eye-catching pattern, and keep the bottoms plain in colour and more high cut. These choices can give you some ideas!
Try this flounce halter suit to seem fuller up top. The high waisted pants are flattering and give more attention to the waist, not the hip region, while the double ruffle is beautiful. a lovely option for lengthy beach days!
This is available in a variety of lovely colours in sizes S-XXL.
A attractive option like this crisscross suit might help balance the top and bottom of a pear-shaped figure.
The waist is further accented with the ruched waistband without looking or feeling "packed in". It has a subdued sexiness due to the semi-backless design as well! It is available in sizes M-3XL and additional colours.
This stylish bikini comes from a well-known swimwear manufacturer. Another approach to bring attention upwards is with the ruffle off-shoulder appearance, which users claim is very flattering for a woman's neckline and hugs the body perfectly.
Choose the colour that best suits you from the various lovely beach hues it offers. This is available at Nordstrom in sizes 0-16 and in plus sizes 16W-20W. It is also available on Amazon in sizes 0-16.
Tip: Bandeau tops will elongate the bust. Choose a bandeau top with ruffles or another busy feature if you have a pear shape and wish to resemble an hourglass figure.
4. Best Swimsuits to Hide Tummy
Try to choose suits with shirred panels, features like a colourful top, and dark or solid colours at the bottom when your waist is broader than your hips and equal to or nearly as wide as your bust. These choices may capture your attention, who knows?
A deep neckline, like the one on this lovely one-piece suit, will extend the body, emphasise the bust, and give the appearance of a more vertical line.
I can state with certainty that this bathing suit is incredibly flattering because I possess it! It is high cut, has a cushioned bra, and is comfortable all around! I purchased the blue version, but it is available in a variety of colours and sizes XS to XXL.
Ruching on a high waisted bikini can hide and smooth out the tummy while emphasising it. The halter contains a wireless, padded bra that is pleasant and attractive. The straps can be be adjusted for maximum comfort.
Sizes M through 3XL, as well as more colours and styles, are available for this stylish suit!
Search for bathing suits with a pattern or texture that gathers at the side and keeps the attention on the upper waistline to give your form a curvier appearance.
This lovely Miraclesuit item has a swirl pattern reminiscent of the ocean that makes waves sound peaceful. The cut will lengthen legs, and the draping "melts" extra in the middle. There are modestly covered cups with comfortable padding.
5. Best Swimsuits for a Compact Figure
The secret to creating the appearance of a bigger body if you are normally thin all over is to wear vivid designs or cutouts to create an hourglass shape. These adorable suggestions are a must-have!
Cutouts in swimwear can give the appearance of widening, and a halter top can help give extra oomph at the top if you want to draw attention to your hips. Consequently, this adorable two-piece would be ideal!
The bottoms have a low rise, and you can opt to have the top pads removed. There are various colours and sizes available.
An hourglass form is produced by wearing a monokini, and the top is made fuller by the warp detail near the breast. Additionally, this suit is entirely lined; the straps can be changed, and the padding may be taken out.
So lovely! This is also available in a variety of lovely colours and in sizes S to XL.
Try a busy print if you want a more curved shape. Your beach outings will instantly take on new meaning and become more enjoyable. This tropical pattern suit is soft and comfortable, and it has a flattering neckline and an adjustable strap that crosses the back.
6. Best Swimsuits for Hourglass Shapes
For an hourglass form, your bust and hips are roughly the same width, but your waist is narrower. In general, you want to emphasise your curves as much as you can!
The halter top of this Tempt Me bikini supports the top wonderfully, and the slightly higher cut of the bottoms where it sits embraces curves elegantly make it ideal for women with hourglass figures.
Many consumers claim that wearing this bathing suit gives them pin-up girl vibes! It comes in sizes XS to XXL and various zany tropical patterns.
A suit with a plunging neckline and side cutouts highlights your greatest features to accentuate an hourglass figure! This stunning swimming suit is unquestionably essential. Support where it counts is provided by the high neck hook clasp, and the deep V-neck plunge is fashionable.
This is completely fashionable for dinner by a seaside restaurant, the beach, or the pool. Available in sizes L-22 Plus, but also comes in a variety of colours.
Triangle tops are effective for emphasising the waist! This cute two-piece suit with stripes is lined, soft, and comfortable. It also has removable padded cups.
It is available in sizes XS to XXL and more striped colours.
7. Best Swimsuits for Long Torso
Thank god additional long sizes are now available for women if you have an extended torso. High-cut bikini bottoms can aid by giving the appearance that your legs are longer.
J.Crew is highly regarded by readers, and this ruched swimsuit comes in sizes 0–16 and even long sizes for extended torsos—yay!
The broad straps are attractive, and the ruching feature helps to conceal the stomach. The bra padding is removable, and the suit is completely lined. It's also accessible in conventional sizes 00–24!
Talk about stylish! With this leopard print wrap suit, you can go around with confidence if you have a long torso. There are countless ways to wear the V-neck and tie wrap. Plus, this outfit is created from recycled materials!
This is available right here in standard sizes XXS-XXL and Long sizes S-XL!
Image is credited by CSG Swim Gear Ltd
