Fashion has a complicated relationship with plastic. As much as we pass laws to reduce it [1] and march in the streets [2] to get it out of our oceans, plastic fashion [3] (like PVC shoes, clothes, and accessories) continues to be one of the industry's biggest trends. It's a funny paradox where our fascination with transparent pieces is subverting the actual transparency that we need from big brands. But what if we used the demand for this trend as a way to reduce our plastic problem?
The word "sustainable" was once tied to an underground and overpriced market. Now that the eco-fashion revolution is in full swing, there are tons of fresh brands like Mara Hoffman, Reformation [4], and Chromat that are gaining loyal fan bases while influencing mega retailers, like H&M and Zara, to follow suit. Our favourite part of the eco-fashion revolution? The many sexy sustainable swimwear brands that are made out of ocean plastic or postconsumer materials.
Chromat [5]'s fully edible bikini made out of seaweed definitely shook up the industry last Summer, inspiring other independent labels to step up their game. Now, swimwear brands like Ode & Rae, Marble Swimwear, and Weekday (to name a few) will have you looking sexy on the sand while saving the planet. Double win. Read ahead for our favourite environmentally friendly bikinis and one-pieces for all of your scantily clad Summer adventures.
Swim Society Amanda
This lemony Swim Society Amanda [7] (£50) bikini set is made from a recycled polyester and elastane blend.
Bower Lennox One Piece in Peach
The Bower Lennox One Piece in Peach [8] (£129) is made from an Italian sustainable techno-fabric made from Econyl.
casa rika Eleonora Maillot White
The casa rika Eleonora Maillot White [9] (£170) is made from Italian Econyl fabric with SPF50+.
Hunza G Seersucker Swimsuit
The sleek Hunza G Seersucker Swimsuit [10] (£130) is locally made in England with sustainable materials.
Summersalt The Sidestroke
The tricolour contrast on this Summersalt The Sidestroke [11] (£75) one-piece is so fresh, made from a recyled polyamide and elastane blend.
Reformation Bikini Set
The print on this Reformation Myrtille Ruffle Bikini Top [12] (£90) and Reformation Mure String Bikini Bottom [13] (£70) is so delicate.
ayla Scoop Back Swimsuit
Ayla's swimwear is made from either Econyl or Repreve regenerated nylon (depending on the collection), and its clothing line is designed from Tencel (a fibre made of ethically sourced wood pulp). We love the print on the ayla Scoop Back Swimsuit [14] (£125).
Weekday Breeze Bikini Set
The Weekday Breeze Bikini Top [15] (£12) and Weekday Breeze Bikini Bottom [16] (£10) is made from recycled polyamide.
Ode & Rae Orange Bikini
We're loving the Ode & Rae Coco Top in Aura [17] (£45) with the matching Ode & Rae Coco Thong in Aura [18] (£45)
Abysse Neon Green Bikini
Neon continues to be a standout colour trend this Summer, just like this Abysse Jones Bikini Top [19] (£77) with matching Abysse Jean Bikini Bottom [20] (£77).