Sustainability Is the Next Big Swimwear Trend
Forget cutouts, Liberty prints, and high-cut legs: the latest swimwear trend to follow is sustainability (although as far as we're concerned those other ones are cute, too). Whether it means small runs and local manufacturing — which means a more minimal carbon footprint — or the use of recycled materials, brands are starting to create suits that are as environmentally friendly as they are stylish. And if you don't know where to start shopping, don't stress: we've zeroed in on a few brands that are offering some of the best mindfully-made swim styles around so you can feel good about the next bikini or maillot you buy.
Pari Desai
Isola Two Piece Swimsuit in Maroon, $230
The LA designer's swim collection is the latest addition to her chic, minimalist line. The locally made suits come in styles with moderate coverage — think scoop-back tank one pieces and high-waisted bikini bottoms that actually cover your butt (!!!) — but still plenty of sleek sex appeal.
LACAUSA
Scoop Back One Piece in Flamingo, $160
Leave it to LACAUSA to create swimwear that's the perfect marriage of ease and femininity: a maillot with thin straps that feels ballet-inspired or an ever-so-slightly sporty tie-back top with high-cut briefs in a color palette that feels pretty but totally classic. And the nylon-and-spandex suits are made in downtown LA, so you know the manufacturing is both mindful and ethical.
Botanica Workshop
Rika swimsuit in Tamarind/Slate, $175
We've been fans of the local intimates brand since we laid eyes on their organic cotton briefs and bralettes a few years back. Now they've added sustainable swimwear to their offerings, which in this case means suits are made with recycled nylon. The one we can't stop obsessing over? This minimalist colorblock style.
Reformation
Tropicana One Piece in Cherry, $128
Ref is already well-known for their sustainable offerings, and their swim collection just keeps adding more just-trendy-enough styles. Made of recycled polyamide and elastane, the offerings include retro-inspired bikinis, one-pieces with super flattering cutouts or lace-up detailing in a range of colors and sweet patterns (like gingham, polka dots, and itty-bitty florals).
Mara Hoffman
Hoffman is committed to sustainable design, which means both domestic production (Los Angeles, to be specific) and the use of recycled materials. In terms of style, shoppers can always count on the brand to turn out playful, colorful suits with just enough vintage flair (typically by way of the 60's and 70's).
Lead photo via @christhanyzhu
