Sustainable Swimsuits and Summer Wear

Making a Splash Without Harming the Planet

Sunshine, sandy beaches, chilled cocktails, and that unmistakable feeling of freedom—summer has its own magic. But while the season encourages carefree living, our wardrobe choices can’t afford to be careless. With rising awareness around fashion’s role in climate change, it’s more important than ever to prioritise ethical, eco-friendly decisions—even when it comes to bikinis and beachwear.

Fortunately, sustainable summer fashion has evolved beyond dull basics and limited choices. Today’s eco-conscious brands are making waves with beautiful designs, recycled fabrics, and ethical production processes that let you flaunt your style without compromising the planet. Whether you’re jetting off to the coast, lounging poolside, or planning a laid-back picnic in the park, this guide will help you create a green wardrobe that looks as good as it feels.

Let’s dive into how you can make your summer stylish and sustainable.

Why Sustainable Summer Fashion Matters

The environmental cost of fashion is enormous, and summer clothing—often made from synthetic fibres, designed for trends, and discarded after just a few wears—contributes significantly.

Fast Fashion’s Impact on the Planet:

• 10% of global carbon emissions come from the fashion industry.
• Second-largest water consumer globally.
• Synthetic swimwear sheds microplastics, polluting oceans.
• Fast fashion promotes a throwaway culture, leading to billions of garments in landfills.

Summer wardrobes tend to be trend-heavy and short-lived, often driven by fast fashion. However, switching to sustainable summer outfits and eco-friendly swimwear offers a genuine solution to this environmental challenge.

What Makes Conventional Swimwear Unsustainable?

Most mainstream swimsuits are made from virgin polyester or nylon, derived from fossil fuels.

These fabrics:

• Are not biodegradable.
• Release microplastics every time they are washed.
• Are often dyed with toxic chemicals that pollute water systems.
• Come from exploitative supply chains and mass production models.

The solution? Swimwear made from recycled materials, coloured with non-toxic dyes, and produced by brands committed to ethical labour practices and long-lasting quality.

What to Look for in Eco-Friendly Swimwear

To make the right sustainable choices, it helps to know what actually makes a swimsuit “green.”

1. Recycled Fabrics

Look for regenerated fibres such as:

• ECONYL® – Made from ocean plastic, discarded fishing nets, and industrial waste.
• REPREVE® – Created from recycled plastic bottles.

These materials offer the same stretch, durability, and comfort as traditional synthetics, without the environmental guilt.

2. Low-Impact Dyes

Choose swimwear brands using:

• OEKO-TEX® certified dyes
• Water-based or vegetable-derived colouring processes. These reduce water pollution and limit your exposure to skin irritants.

3. Ethical Manufacturing

Trustworthy eco brands will be transparent about:

• Fair wages
• Safe working conditions
• Local, small-batch production to reduce emissions

4. Timeless Designs

Avoid one-season trends. Instead, opt for:

• Classic cuts (triangle tops, high-waist bottoms, wrap styles)
• Versatile colours (navy, black, forest green, terracotta)
• Reversible designs for more wear per item

5. Certifications to Trust

• Global Recycle Standard (GRS)
• OEKO-TEX®
• GOTS (for natural fibres in cover-ups)
• B Corp (brands with verified social and environmental impact)

Top Brands for Eco-Friendly Swimwear

1. Stay Wild (UK)

• Made in London using ECONYL®
• Sleek, minimalist aesthetic
• Carbon-neutral shipping and plastic-free packaging

2. Vitamin A (USA)

• Pioneers of their signature EcoLux fabric
• Founded by an environmentalist
• Committed to circular fashion and giving back via 1% for the Planet

3. Reformation

• Famous for chic, trend-led fashion with sustainable backing
• Swimwear made with recycled and regenerative materials
• Focus on transparency with fibre scores and impact data

4. Baiia (Australia)

• Wrap-style swimsuits that are reversible and multi-way
• Made from certified recycled fabrics
• Size-inclusive and flattering for many body types

5. RubyMoon (UK)

• Dual-purpose swim/gym hybrid suits
• Non-profit structure: 100% of net profits support female entrepreneurs globally
• Utilises upcycled ocean plastics

Sustainable Summer Outfits Beyond Swimwear

Sustainable fashion doesn’t end at the shoreline. Your entire summer wardrobe—from sandals to sarongs—can align with eco values.

Beach Cover-Ups

• Organic cotton or linen kaftans
• Hand-loomed or naturally dyed materials
• Support artisan producers for cultural preservation and sustainable income

Breezy Dresses

• TENCEL™, hemp, or GOTS-certified organic cotton
• Ethically printed with non-toxic, water-based dyes
• Ideal for day-to-night wear

Shorts and Co-Ords

• Upcycled denim with natural dye
• Linen two-pieces perfect for resort lounging or city days
• Look for brands offering repair schemes or end-of-life recycling

Eco-Chic Footwear and Accessories

Footwear

• Cork or recycled rubber soles
• Brands like TOMS, Allbirds, and Native Shoes offer beach-ready styles

Hats & Bags

• Straw hats from biodegradable raffia
• Jute or canvas beach totes to avoid single-use plastic
• Recycled-plastic backpacks or water-resistant bags

Sunglasses

• Made from bamboo, wood, or recycled ocean plastic
• Lightweight, durable, and biodegradable options available

Packing for a Sustainable Beach Holiday

Travelling light and sustainably is simple with a capsule wardrobe that’s stylish and versatile.

Capsule Essentials:

• 2 Swimsuits – Preferably reversible or mix-and-match
• 1 Kaftan or Kimono – Double as loungewear
• 1 Versatile Dress – Works for dinner and daywear
• Linen Shorts or Wrap Skirt
• Cork Sandals + Trainers
• Canvas Tote
• Layerable minimal accessories

Style Hack: A sarong can act as a skirt, scarf, or even a towel in a pinch.

Real-World Experiences: Shoppers Share

“I bought a recycled bikini from a UK brand and was blown away by the fit. It’s survived salt water, chlorine, and multiple holidays.” — Jess, 30, Cornwall

“Eco-packing for my yoga retreat in Ibiza was a dream. My TENCEL co-ord felt luxurious but ethical.” — Farah, 34, Bristol

“I didn’t expect people to notice my wrap suit was made from ocean plastic—but I got compliments everywhere I went!” — Tom, 28, Brighton

Sustainable Summer Fashion Myths, Debunked

Myth 1: Eco fashion is boring. Reality: Think bold colours, modern cuts, and clever design. Sustainability is now stylish.

Myth 2: It’s too expensive. Reality: While upfront costs may be higher, sustainable garments last longer, often replacing multiple fast fashion buys.

Myth 3: It’s hard to find. Reality: Ethical fashion is growing—online platforms, curated marketplaces, and high-street collections are all expanding.

How to Extend the Life of Your Swimwear

Caring for your sustainable swimwear helps extend its lifespan and protects your investment.

Swimwear Care Tips:

• Rinse after every use, especially after swimming in saltwater or chlorine
• Hand wash with mild detergent—no machine spins
• Dry flat in shade to prevent fading
• Avoid twisting or wringing the fabric
• Store in breathable bags (preferably cotton) to maintain shape

A Quick Checklist Before You Buy

Use this guide to vet your next summer wardrobe purchase:

• Is it made from recycled or responsibly sourced material?
• Is the production process ethical and transparent?
• Does it have certifications (e.g., GOTS, OEKO-TEX)?
• Will I wear it more than five times?
• Does it complement my existing wardrobe?

Being stylish shouldn’t cost the earth—literally.

Conclusion: Dress With Intention This Summer

The sun is out, the waves are calling, and you’re ready to enjoy every moment of summer. But the real power lies in choosing fashion that uplifts not only your style but also the world around you. With eco-friendly swimwear and sustainable summer outfits, your look becomes more than a seasonal trend—it becomes a statement.

From beach-ready bikinis crafted from ocean waste to breathable cover-ups and shoes with a story, every ethical choice you make helps create a greener, fairer fashion future. So whether you’re holidaying at home or abroad, let your wardrobe reflect your values: beautiful, thoughtful, and kind.

Style doesn’t begin with a label or price tag. It begins with purpose. And when that purpose is to protect the planet while looking fabulous, you’ve already won.