Let’s talk about a cool trend that’s catching on, sustainable swimwear. If you’re tired of fast fashion hurting the planet, now’s the time to try swimsuits that look good and are better for the environment.
Eco-friendly doesn’t mean boring anymore. These days, you can find great-looking swimsuits from brands that use recycled products; like plastic bottles, fishing nets, and even ocean trash. These suits aren’t just stylish; they also help cut down on waste and keep our planet cleaner.
When you choose sustainable swimwear, you’re doing something good for the planet without giving up your style. Supporting brands that care about people and the environment might seem like a small thing, but it really does help cut down on fashion’s impact.
Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliated; we may earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase. We only ever add brands & products we truly believe in. Thank you for supporting the brands who are making the fashion industry a better place! Image: Do Good Swimwear
The Environmental Impact of Fast Fashion Swimwear
Fast fashion swimwear is super popular because it’s cheap and always on-trend. But the truth is, it’s pretty rough on the environment. From making the suits to tossing them out, fast fashion swimwear creates a lot of pollution, waste, and even takes advantage of workers.
Making fast fashion swimwear uses up tons of water, energy, and chemicals. The textile industry already uses a lot of water and often lets out harmful stuff into rivers and lakes. Plus, making new synthetic fabrics like nylon and polyester (which most swimwear is made from) means using resources that can’t be replaced and adds more greenhouse gases to the air.
A lot of fast fashion swimwear is made in places where workers don’t get paid much and work in tough, sometimes unsafe, conditions. In some areas, even kids are put to work, which shows the not-so-great side of the industry.
Why Choose Sustainable Swimwear?
Picking sustainable swimwear has a lot of perks besides just being better for the planet. Here’s why eco-friendly swimsuits are worth it:
1. Less waste and pollution: Sustainable swimwear is usually made from recycled stuff, which means we use fewer new resources and keep trash out of landfills. It’s a good way to cut down on pollution and help the planet.
2. Made to last: These swimsuits are built to stick around. They’re high quality, keep their shape and color, and won’t fall apart after just a summer or two.
3. Comfortable and cute: Sustainable swimwear is designed to look good and feel good, so you can be confident and comfy at the same time.
4. Better for people: When you buy sustainable swimwear, you’re helping brands that pay fair wages, keep workers safe, and are honest about how everything’s made. It’s a way to support a more fair and responsible fashion industry.
What should you look for when shopping for sustainable bathing suits?
It’s really hard to find sustainable swimsuits that don’t use synthetic fibers (these are made from oil and don’t break down like natural fibers do). Even eco-friendly swimsuits can still shed microplastics. But the good news is, many brands are now using recycled stuff (like plastic bottles and fishing nets) to make new swimwear fabric that works just as well as regular suits.
More Eco-Friendly Swimwear Fabrics to Know
ECONYL® and REPREVE are the most popular recycled swimwear fabrics right now. ECONYL is made from things like old fishing nets, carpet, and fabric scraps. It’s fully recycled and even certified to be safe for your skin. REPREVE is another recycled fabric, but it’s made from plastic bottles and other waste. You might also see EcoRib (made from leftover nylon) and Bio-Nylon (a plant-based fiber that can break down over time). While some of you may be looking for swimwear made of natural materials, they are quite hard to find because they do not hold up as well in water.
Our Top Picks for Sustainable Swimwear:
1. Do Good Swimwear
Materials: ECONYL®
Price: $38-50
Sizes: XS-XL
Do Good Swimwear is a women’s surf collective offering eco, affordable & sustainably-made swimsuits. Not only are they accessible, but they give back to the planet, too! All swimsuits are made from recycled ocean waste such as fish nets, plastic bottles, etc. Also, with each purchase, a portion of profits are given to ocean conservation efforts, tree planting, and social impact non-profits.
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2. Kaylyn Gardner
Materials: GOTS Organic Cotton
Price: $80-$200
Sizes: XS-XL (& custom)
If you’re looking for a synthetic-free suit that’s made from all-natural materials, check out Kaylyn Gardner. These beautiful knitted one- and two-pieces are made with organic cotton and natural dyes (including avocado!). Each piece is handmade to order, so if you need a larger or smaller size, they can accommodate you. In addition to swimwear, Kaylyn Gardner also carries knit loungewear perfect for wearing around the house, pool, or beach all year round.
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3. Made Trade
Materials: Amni Soul Eco® Thread / CO2 Light Fabric, Deadstock Fabrics, ECONYL®, Repreve
Price: $45-225
Sizes: XS-2XL
Made Trade is home to several brands who create sustainable swimsuits for every type of body. Many of their brands are woman-owned, and full of different fibers to choose from. The Amni Soul Eco® Thread used by BOLD Swim is so interesting because it’s a biodegradable nylon fabric!
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4. Carve Designs
Materials: Recycled Plastic Bottles
Price: $42 – 99
Size: XS-XL
As a company born at the beach and inspired by the outdoors, Carve Designs prides itself on crafting fashion-forward swimsuit designs made from 100% recycled materials. Their swim line is made from plastic bottles found in the ocean, where 5 bottles are used for each piece, reducing carbon emissions by 80%. The women of Carve set out to push boundaries & prove functionality, sustainability, and fashion go hand in hand.
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5. Kitty & Vibe
Materials: Recycled Polyester
Price: $46-95
Sizes: S-5X
Kitty & Vibe carries swimwear that not only comes in super fun fabrics, but is also available in a wide variety of fits, sizes, and styles, making it easier to find something that feels great on your body. The brand is in the process of transitioning their fabrics to more sustainable ones; currently, half of their suits are made from recycled polyester.
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6. Wolven
Materials: Recycled Plastic Bottles
Price: $48-168
Sizes: XS-XL
Wolven probably has one of the most colorful collections of any swimwear line. Their prints are so vibrant, and perfect for all your under the sun activities. I think it’s great they have many different styles – from one pieces to high-waisted bikini bottoms. Plus, all swimwear is made from recycled plastic bottles! I’ve had one of their bathing suits for years and love it!
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7. Vitamin A
Materials: EcoLux, EcoRib, EcoTex, BioSculpt
Price: $78-264
Sizes: XS-XXL
So many cool fabrics in this collection: EcoLux is made from recycled nylon fibers – EcoRib is a stretch-ribbed swim fabric made from nylon fiber scraps – EcoTex emits fewer greenhouse gases and conserves water + energy in the production process – BioSculpt provides an organic alternative to fossil fuel based nylon.
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8. Girlfriend
Materials: ECONYL®
Price: $38-78
Sizes: XXS-6XL
The most size-inclusive of the swimwear brands on this list, Girlfriend is definitely a fan favorite in activewear. I’m so excited to see them come out with a swimwear line!
Their bathing suits are very basic, and come in many different colors. They also give back 1% to Healthy Seas.
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9. Patagonia
Materials: Recycled Nylon & Polyester
Price: $55-179
Sizes: XXS-XL
From an active standpoint, this brand is probably one of the best to shop through. They create some of the best performance wear on the market, so if you love to surf, hike, boat, etc – you’ll find these swimsuits very practical! From rash guard tops to board shorts, they have you covered. Plus, all swimsuits are Fair Trade sewn, and they have a great collection of men’s swimsuits!
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10. Lively
Materials: Recycled Polyester
Price: $45-80
Sizes: XS-XXXL
I am so glad I found this brand because I’ve had several people ask for bathing suit tops for curvier chests. Well, here you go!! Lively has tops for A to DDD, and you can mix-and-match bottoms with ease. They are inspired by a mix of active lifestyle and vintage vibes, and besides their mix-and-match bikinis, they have a few one-pieces!
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11. Cleobella
Materials: Recycled Nylon
Price: $98-228
Sizes: XS-XL
Cleobella’s swimsuits are ethically made in Sri Lanka from OEKO-TEX® and GRS-certified fabrics. They work with local artisans and small factories, creating jobs and sustainable incomes worldwide. Their new Spring 23 collection is gorgeous!!
SHOP CLEOBELLA SUSTAINABLE SWIMWEAR
12. TomboyX
Materials: Recycled Polyester
Price: $49-99
Size: XS-6X
Female-founded and run, Tomboy has designed a variety of swimsuits that truly fit different bodies and styles. They have uni suits, board shorts, swimsuits, and swim tanks. Each piece is offered in different creative patterns with full coverage options.
SHOP TOMBOYX SUSTAINABLE SWIMWEAR
13. REI
Materials: ECONYL®, Recycled Polyester
Price: $45-100
Sizes: XXS-2XL
REI has a great curated collection of sustainable swimsuits from brands like prAna, Nani Swimwear and Patagonia. When it comes to outdoor shopping, REI is a company I trust much more than others. The brands they choose to curate typically have a much higher level of ethics!
14. Outerknown
Materials: ECONYL®
Price: $68-145
I didn’t want to leave the men out of this list! Outerknown has been a trailblazer in many ways, like being the first brand to be certified by the Fair Labor Association (FLA) without ever shipping a product and being the very first brand to launch swimwear made out of ECONYL. Plus, they work with Fair Trade USA to ensure that garment workers are paid fairly and work in safe conditions.
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TIPS FOR CARING FOR AND EXTENDING THE LIFE OF YOUR SUSTAINABLE SWIMWEAR
Proper care is essential to maximize the lifespan of your sustainable swimwear and reduce waste. Follow these tips to ensure that your swimwear stays in excellent condition for years to come:
1. Rinse with fresh water: After each use, rinse your swimwear with fresh water to remove chlorine, salt, and other impurities. This helps prevent discoloration and maintains the fabric’s integrity.
2. Hand wash or use a gentle cycle: To minimize damage, hand wash your swimwear using mild detergent or use the delicate cycle on your washing machine. Avoid using harsh detergents or fabric softeners that can degrade the fabric. We have a list of cleaning brands we love here.
3. Avoid excessive heat and sun exposure: Excessive heat and sun exposure can cause fading and degradation of the fabric. Dry your swimwear in the shade and avoid ironing or using a dryer.
4. Store properly: Store your swimwear in a cool and dry place to prevent mold and mildew. Avoid folding or twisting the fabric, which can cause stretching or deformation.
5. Rotate your swimwear: Rotate your swimwear pieces to minimize wear and tear instead of using the same one repeatedly. This allows each piece to rest and recover between uses.
By following these care tips, you can extend the life of your sustainable swimwear and reduce the need for frequent replacements. After all, sustainable fashion is about taking care of the things we have so we can wear them for many, many years 🙂
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