Finding a good sustainable bikini on a budget can sometimes be overwhelming, especially if you donโt know what to look out for. To make things easier for you, Iโve put together a simple guide that will take you through the basics of what makes a piece of swimwear sustainable, as well as where to find the best affordable eco-friendly bathing costumes in 2021.ย
What is sustainable swimwear, and why is it the better choice?ย
Letโs break this down, shall we? First of all, what does sustainable mean? If you havenโt read my posts about sustainable clothing/brand, then where the hell have you been!? To summarize, the term sustainable in regard to fashion means clothing that has been made and distributed in ways that do not harm the environment, and can be repeated without using up finite resources.
So when weโre talking about sustainable swimwear, we mean the same thing. Swimwear such as bikinis, swimsuits, halternecks, tankinis, board shorts, thongs, monokinis, etc. In order to be labeled sustainable, they need to follow the same rules. This means using fabrics that donโt harm the planet. Providing a fair wage to all those involved in the process. Producing minimal (or ideally zero) waste. These are just some of the things we expect from sustainable bikini brands.
Now when you start shopping for your own sustainable pieces, be sure to look out for quality. Itโs simple math. The longer your swimwear lasts, the less often you have to buy more in future. That means less waste, and more savings. Better quality doesnโt always mean more expensive, but if you want it to last, the price tag is likely going to be a bit more that your fast fashion options.
The fabric matters!
Another thing to look out for is how eco-friendly the fabrics are. Not all materials are created equal. Some feel great, but donโt last. Others are made from recycled materials, but are uncomfortable to wear. Then there are those ones that last for decades but are not made in a sustainable way. The good news is that some can have it all. Sustainability, durability, and comfort. Bonus points if itโs affordable, too. ECONYLยฎ is a great material to look out for. It is sustainable AND fabulous.
Your standard swimwear comes in a variety of materials, but disappointingly the one that is often found in them is plastic. This is a big no no. If youโre not aware of the sever situation with plastics and the ocean, I highly recommend you look it up. Plastics cannot break down easily, and so the waste containing them just fills up landfills and oceans. Building up and up for so many years to come.
It isnโt necessary. There are great materials being created from recycled materials, and using sustainable resources such as bamboo. The alternatives are out there from all around the world. From the sustainable swimwear Canada offers, to the best sustainable bikini brands Europe can bring. No need to go searching. Iโve got them right here for you.
ย SUSTAINABLE BIKINI: WHERE TO GET ECO SWIMWEAR ON A BUDGET
The following is a carefully curated list of good, STYLE BY SAVINA approved brands, offering stylish sustainable swimwear that wonโt burn a hole in your pocket. Whether youโre on the hunt for a classy plain minimalistic bathing suit, or something more bold and colorful, thereโs something here for everyone.ย
1. EVERLANE SWIM
If youโre a reader of my blog, you know that I have a special place in my heart for EVERLANE. They are an affordable sustainable-minded brand for basics. This year theyโve launched their first ever swimwear line!!
Of course, I had to get my hands on a piece to check if they are as good as the brand promises. Was it worth it? You betcha!!
EVERLANEโs swimsuits are comprised of premium Italian ECONYLยฎ which is a regenerated nylon, derived from recycled plastic. I promise you, the fabric is beautiful, and it feels so nice and soft on the skin. Itโs used to make some of the finest sustainable swimwear Europe can offer. The collection starts from $30, and itโs available in sizes XXS to XXL. So youโre bound to find an affordable sustainable bikini that you like.
This is the exact bikini set Iโve got. I would definitely recommend it! Gorgeous fit and beautiful color.
2. BODEN SWIMย
BODEN is a British brand offering stylish ethically produced clothing designed to last. The company is committed to create clothes that will never end up in landfill, and that applies to their swimming costumes too. The kind of sustainable bikini UK can be proud of.
Whether youโre into bold colors and patterns, or into more classy styles, there is something for everyone at BODEN. And when I say everyone, I mean it! The brand offers swimwear for the whole family! They also have a Planet-Friendly selection thatโs worth checking out.
Their sizes start from US 2 to US 22, and whatโs really great is that you can get the majority of styles in a Regular or Long fit.
ย Iโve added these two pieces (swimsuit & top + bottoms) to my swim collection this summer and I have no regrets!
3. ARKET SWIMย
When you hear the name ARKET, think simplicity and positive change. Thatโs what they stand for. The Nordic-inspired brand aims to make beautiful day-to-day items that people will love for years and years.
The majority of ARKETโs range of recycled swimwear is made from materials such as recycled polyester, elastane and ECONYLยฎ yarn derived from nylon waste and recovered fishing nets. If youโre into clean minimalistic designs, you will love ARKETโs swimwear. The collection starts from $22. Donโt confuse affordable for cheap sustainable swimwear. These prices are a bargain.
4. VITAMIN A SWIM
Next on the list is VITAMIN A which is a wonderful Californian slow fashion brand for sustainable bikinis and bodysuits. They design their collections using recycled and plant-based materials. The company is committed to innovation and to producing Planet-friendly flawless swimwear that feels good, looks good, and does good.
Personally, I love the huge variety of options. There are so many stunning pieces, itโs hard to pick a favourite!! So when it comes to good eco swimsuits, VITAMIN A has definitely got options. We like our sustainable bikini brands cheap but stylish. Win-win.
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5. REFORMATION SWIMย
REFORMATION is one of those eco swimwear brands that makes their garments from low-impact materials, rescued dead stock fabrics, and repurposed vintage clothing. They are a popular LA based slow fashion label on a mission to bring sustainable fashion to everyone.ย
Their swim line is absolutely worth checking, especially if you love vintage-inspired designs and girly patterns. They make their pieces using ECONYLยฎ, which is good news for the environment.
Sustainability is at the heart of everything they do, throughout the entire process. They are carbon-neutral, and setting the bar for the industry to make positive change. Their goal is to be Climate Positive by 2025! Exactly the kind of thing I want to hear from fashion brands.
6. SUMMERSALT SWIM
Looking for a sustainable swim with a pop of color? Then SUMMERSALT is the place for you!
Outstanding designs, bold colors and patterns, recycled materials, and pieces that will keep you comfortable and chic on your next beach holiday. Just some of what SUMMERSALT is all about.
The brand took over 1.5 million body measurements from 10 000 women to create the perfect fit for their swimsuits. Yes, you read it right, 10 000 women. Can you believe it?! Now, thatโs a company that is taking their business seriously.ย
7. BEACH ACCESS
Are you a beach babe bikini who loves cute retro inspired swimwear? If the answer is yes, then you should check out BEACH ACCESS, right now!!
BEACH ACCESS is a cruelty-free slow fashion brand that is passionate about protecting our oceans, and goes the extra mile to be ethical in their practices. They collect plastic and nylon waste such as water bottles and fishing nets, then recycle them into textile yarn. The yarn is woven into high quality fabric in Italy and used for their swimwear line. They know the material they use is the highest quality, most sustainable and comfortable option currently available.
Not only are BEACH ACCESSโs bikinis unique and beautiful, but theyโre also durable and good for our planet!
This post was all about sustainable bikini and where to get eco swimwear on a budget.ย
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Other Posts You May Like:
- THE BEST ETHICAL FASHION BRANDS FOR THE BEST PRICES
- 11 SUSTAINABLE FASHION BRANDS THAT WON’T BREAK YOUR BANK
- THE ONLY MINIMALIST FASHION BRANDS YOU WILL EVER NEED
