Ethical and Sustainable Full Coverage Swimwear Brands to Know

Finding swimwear that you feel comfortable and confident in, while also aligning with your values, can be a challenge. Luckily, the demand for ethical and sustainable fashion has extended to the swimwear industry, giving us more options than ever before. Full coverage swimwear, in particular, is becoming increasingly popular as women seek stylish and modest alternatives. This article highlights some of the top ethical and sustainable brands that offer beautiful and responsibly made full coverage swimwear, allowing you to make a positive impact while enjoying your time in the sun.

What Makes Swimwear Ethical and Sustainable?

Before diving into the brands, let’s define what constitutes ethical and sustainable swimwear. Ethical production focuses on fair labor practices, safe working conditions, and ensuring workers receive fair wages. Sustainable swimwear prioritizes environmentally friendly materials and production processes. This often includes using recycled fabrics like ECONYL® (recycled nylon from fishing nets and other nylon waste), organic cotton, and other innovative eco-friendly textiles. It also involves minimizing water consumption, reducing waste, and using non-toxic dyes. Transparency in the supply chain is another crucial element, allowing consumers to understand where and how their swimwear is made.

Key Features to Look for in Ethical Swimwear

When shopping for ethical and sustainable full coverage swimwear, consider these key features:

Recycled Materials: Look for brands that use recycled nylon, polyester, or other recycled materials.
Organic Fabrics: Organic cotton and other natural fibers, grown without harmful pesticides, are a good choice for linings and other components.
Fair Labor Practices: Research brands to ensure they have fair labor certifications or transparent information about their factories and worker welfare.
Low-Impact Dyes: Dyes can have a significant environmental impact. Choose brands that use eco-friendly, low-impact dyes.
Minimal Packaging: Sustainable brands often minimize packaging and use recycled or biodegradable materials.
Durability and Longevity: Opt for well-made swimwear that will last longer, reducing the need for frequent replacements.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A is a well-known sustainable swimwear brand that uses EcoLux™, a recycled nylon fiber made from discarded materials. They offer a range of stylish and sophisticated full coverage options, including one-piece swimsuits with long sleeves and high necklines, as well as swim dresses and rashguards. Their commitment to sustainability extends beyond materials to include ethical production practices and minimal waste packaging. Vitamin A’s designs are timeless and flattering, ensuring you’ll feel confident and chic.

Mara Hoffman

Mara Hoffman is a designer known for her commitment to sustainability across her entire clothing line, including swimwear. Her full coverage swimwear collection features beautiful prints and designs made from recycled materials like ECONYL®. Mara Hoffman prioritizes ethical production, working with factories that adhere to fair labor standards. They offer options like full-length swim leggings, long-sleeved tops, and modest swim dresses. Their transparency about their supply chain and production practices makes them a reliable choice for conscious consumers.

Girlfriend Collective

While primarily known for their activewear, Girlfriend Collective also offers a selection of sustainable swimwear made from recycled fishing nets and other waste. Their swimwear collection includes comfortable and supportive full coverage options, like high-waisted bottoms and rashguards. They’re incredibly transparent about their manufacturing process, ensuring fair labor practices and safe working conditions. Girlfriend Collective’s commitment to inclusivity and body positivity makes them a popular choice for women of all shapes and sizes.

Summersalt

Summersalt is a brand that focuses on creating comfortable and flattering swimwear for every body type, using recycled materials. Their full coverage offerings include stylish one-piece swimsuits with unique silhouettes and supportive features. They are committed to sustainability and use recycled polyamide, crafted from post-consumer materials. Summersalt offers a range of sizes and styles, making it easier to find the perfect fit. They’re also known for their data-driven approach to design, ensuring their swimwear is both comfortable and flattering.

Patagonia

Patagonia has long been a leader in sustainable and ethical outdoor apparel, and their swimwear is no exception. They use recycled nylon in their swimwear and prioritize fair labor practices. Patagonia offers a variety of full coverage options, including long-sleeved rashguards and swim leggings. Their commitment to environmental activism and social responsibility makes them a brand that consumers can feel good about supporting. Plus, their swimwear is built to last, ensuring you get years of wear out of your investment.

Stay Wild Swim

Stay Wild Swim is a UK-based brand that creates sustainable swimwear from ECONYL® regenerated nylon, sourced from ocean waste. They focus on creating timeless and elegant designs with a focus on quality and durability. They offer modest swimsuit options and focus on body positivity. All of their swimwear is designed and made in London, which means they have greater control over the production process and can ensure that it meets their ethical standards.

Tips for Caring for Your Sustainable Swimwear

To prolong the life of your sustainable swimwear, follow these tips:

Rinse after each use: Rinse your swimwear with cold water after each swim to remove chlorine, salt water, and sunscreen.
Hand wash gently: Hand wash your swimwear with a mild detergent. Avoid harsh chemicals and bleach.
Dry flat: Lay your swimwear flat to dry in the shade. Avoid hanging it, as this can stretch the fabric.
Avoid rough surfaces: Be careful when sitting or leaning against rough surfaces, as this can damage the fabric.
Store properly: Store your swimwear in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Making Conscious Choices

Choosing ethical and sustainable full coverage swimwear is a step towards creating a more responsible and environmentally friendly fashion industry. By supporting brands that prioritize fair labor practices, use recycled materials, and minimize their environmental impact, you can make a positive difference. Remember to do your research, read reviews, and choose brands that align with your values. Your purchasing decisions can have a powerful impact on the world.

In conclusion, the swimwear industry is evolving, and many brands are now offering stylish and sustainable full coverage options. By supporting these brands and adopting mindful purchasing habits, you can enjoy your time in the sun while making a positive impact on the planet and the people who make your clothes.