MY SWIMWEAR GUIDE FOR 2022 + HOW TO CARE FOR IT
Holidays are back on the agenda as we get closer and closer to the summer (without the weather to show for it… yet). Whether you’re travelling or not, there are beach days and lake dips and forest bathing and hiking adventures and pool parties (even if it’s in a paddling pool!) to be had, and I am so ready for it all. When you’re planning a swim, you also have to plan your swimwear, which isn’t always an easy feat — that’s why I’ve rounded up some of my fave sustainable swimwear brands from the many, many eco-friendly brands that have popped up over the last few years.
While we’re talking sustainability it’s also worth noting that swimwear, even if yours might not get the same air time as in sunnier parts of the world that revolve around beach life, has a tendency to age fast — even if it’s just sitting at the back of a drawer for most months of the year.
This is because elastic, which helps keep our sunshine smalls in place, annoyingly rots very easily on exposure to salt, chlorine and sun. To help with the longevity of your swimwear, be sure to use a super mild detergent to clean out the salt and chlorine — plain water alone won’t fully cleanse but definitely rinse your swimwear as soon as possible to remove the excess, and avoid tumble dryers and drying your swimwear directly in the sun. Reduce that sun exposure when it’s not on show!
Hand washing in cool water is a good idea, but if you use a machine choose a hand wash cycle, and avoid fabric conditioners. Cotton ties and the like have less of an issue but can also rub if tight or cause a loose fit otherwise. The other important point is not to wring out your swimwear which can stretch and distort the fibres. Instead, after gently but thoroughly washing, roll it in a towel to absorb excess moisture, then dry it somewhere airy (no tumble dryers, remember!), laying it out flat if it’s a whole suit.
And with swimwear care housekeeping done, back to this year’s eco sustainable ethical swimwear brands to note:
Harper Raye is a swimwear brand that makes unique, creative swimsuits using ECONYL® eco-sustainable yarn, which is regenerated nylon. They are committed to using sustainable materials throughout the production process, including using non-toxic dyes and zero-waste techniques to make their luxury swim and resort wear.
Kōraru, meaning “coral,” aims to make more responsible swimwear using ECONYL® regenerated yarn from nylon waste, and packaged in recyclable materials. They embrace a slow fashion model, and have a commitment to preserving endangered coral reefs. Their pieces are simple, solid-coloured basics that will last you years and years if you treat them right.
If you’re looking for a touch of fun this summer, Hunza G has got you covered. First popularised by Hollywood stars of the ‘90s, the brand makes “crinkle” swimwear that stretches to fit a whole range of bodies (approximately size XS to L), which helps to avoid over-producing any one size. Each piece comes in bright eye-catching colours, and is made with no deadstock fabric or wastage. The brand is carbon-neutral and committed to improving their eco credentials throughout their production process.
We Are Kaii make their garments in Bali, paying their workers a decent living wage as well as comprehensive health insurance. Like other brands on this list, they use ECONYL® regenerated material to help reduce their impact on the planet. Because the material is resistant to chlorine, sun cream, oil and piling, it will last a really long time, too. Their swimwear includes classic triangle bikinis, as well as bandeau styles and one-pieces.
FISCH describes itself as an “eco-innovative label” which takes inspiration from the creative director’s passion for snorkelling and exploring the ocean, as well as a desire to help clean up the polluted seas. They hand-make beautifully fitting swimwear using ECONYL® regenerated nylon in Italy. Their colourful swimsuits are so much fun, and will make you feel like jumping into the water more often.
Medina make lovely swimwear in neutral tones for those who like a look that’s more reminiscent of nature — and speaking of, Medina have got commitment to nature in spades. Like many of the brands on this list, they use ECONYL® regenerated nylon to craft their UV-proof and chlorine-resistant pieces. Their swimsuits are created to last a lifetime thanks to timeless designs and high quality materials, and they also strive to reduce their environmental impact throughout the production process. Last but not least, they donate 3 percent of their sales to non-profit organisations dedicated to preserving the oceans.
OHOY make colourful basic swimwear that will never go out of style. It was founded in 2016 by two Scandinavians, Henna and Anna, who make sure their products are created sustainably and ethically, using — you guessed it — ECONYL® regenerated nylon. Their swimwear is super resistant to chlorine, sun creams, and oils, and made under fair working conditions in Sri Lanka and Portugal. OHOY donate 1 percent of their proceeds to Healthy Seas, which works to recover fishing nets from the oceans (which are then made into ECONYL®!).
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