7 eco-friendly Swimwear
Even though I’ve been living in Miami for the past seven years, I have a very small selection of bathing suits. I tend to stick to a few neutral colors and styles, and after years of wear it was clearly time for a refresh. Which led me to look into brands that are making swimwear with a purpose.
There are probably thousands of swimwear brands out there but few are creating pieces that don’t contribute to the ongoing issues of plastic pollution and over-consumption, which felt odd considering bathing suits are primarily worn in such an integral part of our environment. It was easy for me to do a quick search and find dozens of cute bathing suits but none that I felt good buying from. That was until I searched a little more and found these seven companies that are doing something good with their brand and their products.
At a Glance
- Matteau - simple, considered designs made from recycled nylon
- Hunza G - One size suits made in crinkle fabric
- Talia Collins - Recycled polyamide swim in timeless styles
- Natasha Tonic - Versatile and unique hemp made swimwear
- Mara Hoffman - playful and classic designs made from recycled polyester/nylon
- Fisch - Inspired by summers in St. Barts, Econyl fabric turned into effortless swim
- allSisters - Oeko-tex certified econyl in sleek and modern styles
Matteau
“Our ethos is to be simple and considered.”
A look through Matteaus’ pieces shows exactly that. Natural fabrics like linen, wool and cotton take up much of the materials used for their clothing and for the swimwear, you’ll find regenerated nylon from fishing nets, fabric scraps and industrial plastic. A focus on quality and timeless designs makes Matteau a perfect choice for those that prefer classic styles with the perfect amount of coverage.
Hunza G
Hunza G has become synonymous with comfy and inclusive swimwear. The one size fits all mentality not only allows everyone to enjoy their swimsuits but also encourages less consumption on a commercial level. While they are still made out of lycra and elastane, two very un-environmentally friendly materials, the ethos behind Hunza G and efforts towards a more eco-sustainable brand put them on the list. A carbon neutral company, Hunza Gs’ one size MO makes the swimsuits perfect for bringing on vacation with your friends and remaining a staple in your swim collection.
Talia Collins
Talia Collins eponymous brand is summed up in a quote from Talia herself,
"Every brand today should think about how to be more conscious and responsible — We should be thinking about giving fabrics and industry by-products a new life, which is why my collection is created for women who care about their clothes, where they come from and their afterlife."
Swimsuits made from recycled polyamide in timeless styles with a modern feel.
Natasha Tonic
Natasha Tonics namesake brand is one of my favorite finds. Made out of entirely hemp material, Natashas’ pieces are designed, dyed and sewn in Los Angeles. You can wear them by the pool or getting dinner and the best part is how transparent she is about her process. Produced in small quantities from fabric sourced locally, she uses low-impact dyes and works with a factory that is part of the Fair Wear Foundation. I love how versatile and unique each piece is, her brand is for me, the epitome of how sustainability and fashion can meet.
Mara Hoffman
Mara Hoffman is a brand I continue to buy from. I love her fun yet timeless designs and use of natural and recycled materials. Her swimwear is my favorite, for summer there are so many new cute prints. Made from recycled nylon/polyester, the suits feel playful while still being classic with most coming in a range of sizes from xxs-3xl. The swimwear is made entirely in LA and a list of their factories can be found on the sites page.
Fisch
Started in 2017, Fischs swimsuits evoke a certain chic and effortless vibe. The entire collection is made using Econyl (regenerated nylon) from fishing nets and other plastic waste. Inspired by summers spent in St. Barts, Fischs swimwear is the perfect statement piece to add if you don’t already have one. I love the vintage feel each suit has and variety of colors/prints they come in.
Barcelona based brand, allSisters uses Oeko-Tex certified Econyl to ensure their swimwear is free from harmful chemicals, made in environmentally friendly facilities and socially responsible workplaces. The econyl holds the ‘Made in Green’ certification from Oeko-Tex meaning each product also has a unique product ID. This allows for increased traceability including where the allSisters fabric comes from. The styles are clean and feminine always taking into account what is not only practical but also fashionable.
