The Sustainable Swim Edit

Alice Hartwell

With temperatures on the rise, I know the pool is calling you as much as it is me. Whether you’re jetting off to a sandy paradise, or are lucky enough to live by the sea like I do, one thing’s for sure: we’ve entered the season of swim.

I present my sustainable swimwear edit, complete with every bikini, swimsuit and poolside accessory you could possibly need this summer. All pieces are made using eco-conscious materials, fabrics and practices so you can top up your tan with limited environmental impact.

Bikinis

A few sustainable bikini sets will last you a lifetime. Look for options made using recycled fabrics or Econyl (a great choice for swimwear as it’s resistant to both chlorine and sunscreen). Bonus points for UV-protective fabrics!

Swimsuits

If you prefer a literal more coverage than a standard bikini offers, you can still serve a look with a flattering swimsuit. Seek out breathable, stretchy fabrics that give you a good range of movement and avoid cutting you up in all the wrong ways. Again, choose a suit made using Econyl or Amni Soul Eco, the world’s first biodegradable yarn.

Practical swimwear

Perhaps you’re more concerned with catching a wave surfing than you are getting an Insta-worthy bikini snap. Both are a vibe, but require very different kinds of swimwear. When shopping outfits for practical or sports-based water activities, you’ll need swimwear that’s supportive and streamlined. A minimalist suit or long-sleeved two-piece is a good shout.

Cover-ups

Want the best of both worlds? Cover-ups are your answer. Sarongs, loose-fitting shirts and shorts pair perfectly with bikinis when travelling to the beach or at pool parties where you’d like the option of a little more coverage. I love breathable, airy pieces made using sustainable fabrics like organic linen.

Swim accessories

It’s not all about swimwear, we need a moment for some sustainable swim accessories. A quality towel is a must for your afternoon sunbathes, complete with a roomy, durable beach bag and sunnies that offer a high level of UV protection.