As summer fast approaches us lucky folk Down Under, our sights are firmly turning towards the nearest beach, pool and frankly anything we can submerge ourselves into for a refreshing reprieve from the heat.
With that said, you’ll no doubt have seen your favourite clothing brands fill their racks with swimwear for the summer ahead – but there’s an unmistakeable shadow that hangs over the shiny new lines of cossies.
The fashion industry is a key contributor to the world’s landfill issues, and given the flippancy of swimwear – the styles and garments are so disposable – each summer brings yet another opportunity for pointless waste.
That’s why in recent years, we’ve seen an encouraging shift in the way swimwear companies operate.
While many swimwear brands use damaging synthetics as their bread and butter, some are now turning towards other, more sustainable options.
Recycled nylon and polyester are increasingly used, while other multiple use fabrics and items are also being creatively transformed into bikinis, one-pieces, budgey smugglers – you name it.
And a lot of that creativity is happening on our very doorstep, which is exactly why we decided it was pertinent to celebrate that.
Keep scrolling for the best sustainable swimwear brands in Australia.
The best sustainable swimwear brands to buy in 2023
matteau-sustainable-swimwear-brands
faithfull-sustainable-swimwear-brands
Faithfull works with some of Bali’s finest artisans to create stylish, feminine and flattering pieces of swimwear that evoke the sense of wonder and wanderlust. The company is also B Corp certified thanks to their practices.
andie-sustainable-swimwear-brands
Swimsuits shouldn’t leave you feeling uncomfortable and self conscious, enter Andie Swim, whose selection of one pieces and bikinis are a dream to wear.
Bondi Born
Made in ageless, simple styles, Bondi Born uses sustainable fabrics to create swimwear that’ll last you many many summers. A must-have for any swim-lover’s wardrobe.
Spell
Peony Swimwear
Peony Swimwear’s designs are cute as hell, and they’re pretty much the earth’s bestie – all designs are made from recycled ocean waste including fishing nets, carpet and fabric waste.
Tigerlily
Tigerlily is an Aussie staple, iconic for its unique prints and boho designs. In recent years, the brand has put more focus on sustainable practices, with their swimwear line featuring Oeko-tex certified fabrics as well as ECONYL regenerated nylon. Its newer lines are also moving towards becoming 80 per cent recycled polyester.
Bond-eye
liandra-sustainable-swimwear-brands
Luxury made homegrown, Liandra Swim’s unmistakeable combination of swimwear and stunning prints, inspired by Aboriginal Australian heritage and culture, are a dreamy choice. Made from regenerated plastics and elastane, not only will they look good, they do good.
tjswim-sustainable-swimwear-brands
Timeless and glamorous, this is the brand to turn to if you’re wanting to make a splash. Using sustainable materials and packaging without skimping on quality, its collection of minimalist styles have captured the hearts of many including celebs like Kim Kardashian and Rosie Huntington-Whitely.
charlee-sustainable-swimwear-brands
Sustainability is at the forefront of Charlee Swim, made using Eco Lycra in Noosa QLD. Their array of styles and silhouettes are unique and flattering across the board.
LEAD IMAGE: TJ Swim (supplied)