Sustainable & Stunning: 10+ Affordable Swimwear Brands for an Eco-Friendly Summer
- Valinda
- Feb 20
- 13 min read
Updated: 11 hours ago
Picture this: You’re soaking up the sun, toes in the sand, waves crashing in the distance. Your swimsuit is vibrant, flattering, and fits just right. But here’s the twist—unlike most swimwear made from virgin plastic, yours is crafted from recycled ocean waste, turning pollution into style.
Fast fashion swimwear contributes to plastic pollution, unethical labor, and harmful chemicals that affect both the environment and your skin. The good news? You don’t have to choose between sustainability and affordability. A wave of sustainable swimwear brands is making eco-friendly beachwear accessible, stylish, and budget-friendly.
In this guide, we’ll introduce you to the best affordable sustainable swimsuit brands that combine ethical production, recycled materials, and timeless designs—so you can dive into summer with confidence and a clean conscience.
What Makes Swimwear Sustainable?
Sustainable swimwear goes beyond just looking good—it prioritizes ethical production, eco-friendly materials, and durability to ensure your swimsuit doesn’t contribute to the growing problem of textile waste and ocean pollution. But what exactly makes a swimsuit sustainable? Here are the key factors to consider when shopping for a more eco-conscious choice.
1. Recycled and Eco-Friendly Fabrics
Most conventional swimsuits are made from virgin polyester and nylon—synthetic materials derived from fossil fuels that take hundreds of years to break down. Sustainable swimwear brands, however, opt for recycled alternatives like:
ECONYL® – A regenerated nylon made from discarded fishing nets, fabric scraps, and industrial plastic waste. It performs just like traditional nylon but significantly reduces environmental impact.
REPREVE® – A polyester fiber created from recycled plastic bottles, giving a second life to plastic waste that would otherwise end up in landfills or oceans.
Biodegradable or Plant-Based Fabrics – Some innovative brands are exploring materials like organic cotton blends, hemp, and biodegradable polyamide that decompose faster than traditional synthetic fabrics.
These fabrics are not only eco-friendly but also resistant to wear and tear, ensuring your swimsuit lasts for multiple summers. Choosing a swimsuit made from recycled materials helps divert waste from the environment and reduces the demand for virgin plastic production.
2. Ethical and Transparent Production
A truly sustainable swimsuit isn’t just about materials—it’s also about how it’s made. Many fast fashion brands rely on low-wage labor in unsafe working conditions, often in factories with little environmental oversight. Sustainable brands take a different approach by:
Ensuring fair wages and safe working environments for garment workers.
Partnering with Fair Trade-certified factories or small, ethical manufacturers.
Maintaining transparent supply chains, so you know exactly where and how your swimsuit was made.
When shopping for women’s swimwear bathing suits, check for certifications like Fair Trade, GOTS (for organic materials), or OEKO-TEX (for non-toxic dyes) to ensure ethical production standards.
3. Non-Toxic Dyes and Chemical-Free Processing
Many traditional swimsuits are dyed using harsh chemicals and toxic dyes that pollute waterways and may irritate sensitive skin. Sustainable brands are turning to:
OEKO-TEX-certified dyes, ensuring fabrics are free from harmful substances.
Low-impact or plant-based dyes, which use less water and fewer chemicals.
Waterless dyeing techniques, reducing the environmental footprint of the production process.
Opting for a swimsuit made with non-toxic dyes is a small but impactful way to protect both your skin and the planet.
4. Long-Lasting Quality and Timeless Designs
A sustainable swimsuit should be an investment that lasts for years, not just one summer. Fast fashion encourages disposable consumption, with poorly made swimsuits losing shape, fading, or falling apart after just a few wears. Sustainable brands focus on:
Durable, high-quality fabrics that resist stretching and fading.
Double-lined swimsuits for added longevity and comfort.
Classic, timeless designs that stay stylish year after year, reducing the need to buy new swimsuits frequently.
By choosing ladies' swimming wear that’s built to last, you can cut down on textile waste while saving money in the long run.
5. Circular Economy and Recycling Initiatives
Some sustainable swimwear brands go beyond ethical production by closing the loop—offering programs that let you return old swimsuits for recycling or resale. These initiatives help reduce landfill waste and encourage a more circular fashion economy. Look for brands that:
Offer take-back programs, where worn-out swimsuits are repurposed or recycled.
Create multi-functional designs, such as reversible bikinis, to maximize wearability.
Use compostable or minimal packaging, reducing plastic waste at every step of the process.
Making an Impact With Every Purchase
Sustainable swimwear is about more than just looking good—it’s about making conscious choices that reduce environmental harm while supporting ethical labor practices. By choosing brands that prioritize recycled materials, fair wages, and durability, you’re not just investing in a new swimsuit—you’re contributing to a more sustainable fashion industry.
10+ Sustainable Swimwear Brands
Whether you’re catching waves, lounging by the pool, or exploring tropical destinations, choosing an eco-friendly swimsuit is a powerful way to support sustainable fashion. Below are some of the best affordable sustainable swimsuit brands that offer high-quality, stylish swimwear while prioritizing the planet.
Patagonia
Material: Recycled nylon, recycled polyester
Size Range: XS - XL
Price from: $40 - $140
Patagonia is a pioneer in eco-conscious outdoor wear, and their swimwear line is no exception. Their swimsuits are made from ECONYL® regenerated nylon and recycled polyester, sourced from discarded fishing nets and post-consumer waste. The brand also prioritizes ethical manufacturing, with many of its swimsuits carrying the Fair Trade Certified™ label, ensuring fair wages and responsible working conditions.
What makes Patagonia stand out is its commitment to circular fashion. Through their Worn Wear program, customers can trade in old Patagonia gear—including swimwear—for store credit, extending the product’s lifecycle. If you’re looking for a swimsuit that’s durable, performance-driven, and kind to the planet, Patagonia is an excellent choice.
Abysse
Material: Econyl
Size Range: XS - XL
Price from: $90 - $350
Born from a love of the ocean, Abysse creates elegant and functional swimwear that blends sustainability with high-performance design. Their swimsuits are crafted from 100% ECONYL® regenerated nylon, transforming ghost fishing nets and fabric scraps into sleek, high-quality swimwear.
What sets Abysse apart is its small-batch production model, ensuring ethical working conditions and minimizing waste. The brand also packages its products in compostable and plastic-free materials, further reducing its environmental footprint.
If you’re looking for a swimsuit that balances minimalist aesthetics, durability, and sustainability, Abysse is a brand worth exploring.
Mara HoffMan
Material: Econyl
Size Range: XS - XXL
Price from: $40 - $250
If you love eye-catching, statement swimwear, Mara Hoffman delivers style without compromising sustainability. The brand’s swimsuits are crafted from recycled polyester and ECONYL®, reducing reliance on virgin materials while maintaining premium quality.
Mara Hoffman also champions responsible manufacturing, partnering with factories that uphold ethical labor practices and minimize waste. Their designs focus on longevity, encouraging consumers to invest in timeless swimwear pieces rather than fast fashion trends.
While Mara Hoffman’s price point is slightly higher, their commitment to sustainability, ethical production, and stunning designs makes them a standout choice for eco-conscious shoppers looking for a touch of luxury.
FaithFull
Material: Econyl
Size Range: XS - XXL
Price from: $50 - $120
Faithfull The Brand's 'Pacific' bikini briefs combine timeless style with a deep commitment to sustainability, making them a must-have for any tropical getaway or spa retreat. Crafted in Bali, these bikini briefs are made from stretch-ECONYL®, a regenerated nylon sourced from waste materials like discarded fishing nets and fabric scraps. By choosing ECONYL®, Faithfull The Brand actively prevents these materials from ending up in landfills or polluting our oceans, giving them a second life in your swimwear.
What sets this product apart is its dedication to reducing waste while supporting local artisans through ethical, locally made production practices. By choosing Faithfull The Brand, you’re not only investing in high-quality swimwear but also supporting a vision that prioritizes environmental protection and community empowerment.
Raffia Swim
Material: Recycled Polyamide
Size Range: S - L
Price from: $80 - $120
Ana Paola, a visionary entrepreneur from Mexico, founded Raffia Swim in 2017 with a mission to redefine swimwear by breaking away from the fast fashion cycle. Drawing on her expertise in textile development and marketing, gained through a degree from The Fashion Institute of Technology, and her experiences living in New York, Ana Paola infused Raffia Swim with a global perspective. The brand was born between the vibrant shores of Cancun and the cosmopolitan energy of Zurich, blending the best of both worlds.
Raffia Swim sets a new standard in sustainable luxury with its eco-luxe swimwear crafted from high-quality, regenerated fabrics sourced from Italy. These materials are not only durable and stylish but also environmentally responsible, meeting the rigorous OEKO-TEX Standard 100. This certification ensures that no harmful chemicals are used during production, offering swimwear that is as safe for your skin as it is for the planet.
When you choose Raffia Swim, you’re not just investing in chic, timeless designs; you’re supporting a brand that prioritizes ethical practices and environmental stewardship. It’s swimwear that allows you to make a statement—both in style and sustainability.
Berlook
Material: Recycled Polyester
Size Range: 16 - 28
Price from: $18 - $90
BERLOOK was born out of a desire to create meaningful change during the pandemic, when its founders saw firsthand the fragility of our environment. With over a decade of experience in the fashion industry, they set out to design a brand that empowers women while protecting the planet.
At the heart of BERLOOK’s mission is the belief that sustainability and style go hand in hand. Their sustainable swimwear is thoughtfully crafted to help women feel confident, free, and beautiful, all while leaving a positive impact on the environment. Each timeless piece is made from 100% natural or recyclable fabrics, allowing women to embrace eco-friendly fashion without compromise.
Designed with real women in mind, BERLOOK’s high-stretch materials provide exceptional comfort and coverage for all body types. Their versatile styles are rigorously tested on diverse body shapes and sizes, ensuring every piece feels like it was made just for you.
Choosing BERLOOK means choosing swimwear that’s as kind to the planet as it is to your wardrobe. For eco-conscious women seeking timeless, comfortable, and stylish swimwear, BERLOOK offers the perfect blend of sustainability and sophistication.
Olly Lingerie
Material: Recycled polyamide
Size Range: 34 - 46
Price from: $40 - $95
Olly Lingerie is redefining the lingerie industry with its bold commitment to sustainability, ethical practices, and uncompromising style. Founded in 2017 by Mathilde and Clementine, the brand was born from a desire to create underwear that respects both people and the planet. Their mission is simple yet transformative: to prove that lingerie can be beautiful, comfortable, and environmentally conscious.
To achieve this vision, Olly Lingerie partners exclusively with European factories, supporting local craftsmanship while reducing their carbon footprint. Their dedication to sustainability extends to the very fibers of their products. Each piece is crafted from natural, organic, and recycled fabrics, combining comfort with eco-conscious innovation. For example, their recycled lace is produced using a groundbreaking process that reclaims production scraps and transforms them into new threads—an approach that saves 90% of water and 80% of electricity compared to traditional methods.
Safety and transparency are at the core of Olly’s ethos. All fabrics are certified free from harmful substances, ensuring you can wear their lingerie with confidence and peace of mind. Olly Lingerie is more than a brand; it’s a movement proving that sustainability and style can go hand in hand. Choosing Olly means choosing a future where fashion is kinder to the planet and better for all.
OceanChild
Material: Econyl
Size Range: XS - XL
Price from: $24 - $125
Oceanchild Swim combines sustainability with style, offering a bold and eco-conscious swimwear collection that doesn’t compromise on elegance or ethics. Crafted from ECONYL®, a regenerated nylon made from ocean waste like discarded fishing nets, Oceanchild Swim turns pollution into fashion, actively contributing to cleaner seas. Their fabric is OEKO-TEX certified, ensuring it’s free from harmful chemicals, and their production has been relocated to Portugal to minimize carbon emissions and shorten transport routes.
What sets Oceanchild Swim apart is its commitment to durability and quality. Their double-lined, seamless designs are resistant to sun cream, oil, and pilling, keeping you comfortable and confident all summer long. Designed in Germany and ethically produced in Portugal, this brand champions a thoughtful, planet-friendly approach to fashion. If you’re a beach lover who values both sustainability and style, Oceanchild Swim is the perfect choice to make waves in more ways than one.
Narah Soleigh
Material: Econyl
Size Range: $55 - %140
Price from: XS - L
Narah Soleigh, a visionary German brand founded by Katrin & Finn in 2019, is redefining sustainable fashion with a mission to combat the staggering environmental impact of the clothing industry. With over 150 billion garments produced annually, the fashion sector remains one of the world’s largest polluters. That’s why Narah Soleigh’s commitment to ethical and eco-friendly practices stands out.
Every piece of swimwear is crafted in small, socially responsible factories in Portugal, ensuring not only exceptional quality but also fair working conditions. Their production process is powered by sustainability—nearly 100% of the energy used comes from solar panels, reducing their carbon footprint significantly.
The materials they use speak volumes about their dedication to the planet. Narah Soleigh’s bikinis are made with ECONYL®, a regenerated nylon yarn created from discarded fishing nets, fabric scraps, and industrial plastic waste. Beyond swimwear, much of their apparel features 100% certified organic cotton, combining style, comfort, and eco-consciousness seamlessly.
Choosing Narah Soleigh means supporting a brand that cares deeply about the planet and the people behind every stitch, proving that sustainable fashion can be as ethical as it is stylish. It’s more than swimwear—it’s a statement for a better future.
Snapper Rock
Material: REPREVE
Size Range:
Price from: $50 - $100
Snapper Rock’s journey began in 2003 when a family from New Zealand moved to Annapolis, a hub for sailing in the United States. Recognizing a gap in the market for stylish and protective gear for kids on the water, they launched Snapper Rock to cater to the junior sailing community. Over time, the brand expanded its offerings, introducing sun-protective clothing for children up to 16 years old and, in 2016, timeless silhouettes for women and matching prints for dads—making family coordination effortless.
In 2020, Snapper Rock took a major step forward by launching a sustainable swimwear collection crafted from fully recycled materials, showcasing their dedication to reducing environmental impact. Their commitment to sustainability goes hand-in-hand with their promise of safety: all Snapper Rock swimwear is rated UPF50+, offering superior protection from harmful UV rays without added chemicals.
From baby sunsuits to versatile beachwear, Snapper Rock’s thoughtfully designed pieces ensure your family can enjoy sunny adventures with peace of mind. By choosing Snapper Rock, you’re not only protecting your loved ones but also supporting a brand that values our planet for future generations.
SummerSalt
Material: Recycled Polyamide
Size Range: 2 - 22
Price from: $50 - $120
At Summersalt, we believe that travel is about the journey as much as the destination—and your wardrobe should reflect that. That’s why we create versatile travel essentials that merge comfort, functionality, and style, making packing for your adventures a breeze. Our pieces are thoughtfully designed to help you look and feel your best, proving that comfort doesn’t have to come at the expense of elegance.
But our commitment goes beyond just great design. At Summersalt, we’re dedicated to using earth-friendly practices, offering honest pricing, and crafting products that respect both people and the planet. By utilizing data from over 1.5 million body measurements, we’ve created fits that feel custom-made, ensuring every piece works as hard as you do.
With Summersalt, you’re choosing travel essentials that let you explore the world in style, comfort, and with a clear conscience.
Why Affordable Doesn’t Mean Compromising on Sustainability
It’s important to note that affordable doesn’t have to mean fast fashion. By prioritizing brands and practices focused on durability and sustainability, you’re investing in swimwear that won’t just last a single summer but many seasons to come. And with the variety of options available today, there’s no need to sacrifice style or ethics.
Whether you’re searching for the best affordable swimsuit brands or trying to make the leap into more ethical shopping habits, these tips will help you find swimwear that supports your lifestyle and the planet.
How to Care for Your Sustainable Swimsuit
Investing in a sustainable swimsuit is a great step toward eco-friendly fashion, but how you care for it matters just as much. Proper maintenance not only extends the life of your women swimwear bathing suits, but also reduces microfiber shedding and environmental impact. Here’s how to keep your beachwear swimsuits in top shape for many summers to come.
1. Rinse Immediately After Swimming
Saltwater, chlorine, and sunscreen can weaken the fabric of your swimwear suits over time. As soon as you’re done swimming, rinse your swimsuit in cool, fresh water to remove chemicals and prevent fabric degradation.
2. Hand Wash with Gentle Detergent
Machine washing may seem convenient, but it can be rough on delicate fabrics, especially those made from recycled materials like ECONYL® or REPREVE®. Instead:
✔ Use mild, eco-friendly detergent—harsh soaps can break down fibers.
✔ Gently hand wash in cold water—hot water can cause fading and loss of elasticity.
✔ Let it soak for a few minutes, then lightly rub to remove residue.
3. Skip the Washing Machine (or Use a Guppyfriend Bag)
If you must use a washing machine, always place your ladies swimming wear in a Guppyfriend washing bag. This helps prevent microplastics from shedding into waterways and protects the fabric from stretching or snagging. Wash on a delicate cycle with cold water.
4. Air Dry, Never Tumble Dry
Heat from dryers weakens elastic fibers and causes your women swimsuit to lose its shape. Instead:
✔ Lay it flat on a towel and roll gently to remove excess water.
✔ Let it air dry in the shade—direct sunlight can fade colors.
✔ Avoid wringing or twisting, which can stretch the fabric.
5. Store Properly to Maintain Shape
Once your sustainable swimwear is completely dry, store it flat or lightly folded. Avoid hanging it, as straps can stretch over time. Keep it in a cool, dry place to prevent moisture buildup and odors.
6. Avoid Fabric Softeners and Bleach
Traditional softeners and bleach contain harsh chemicals that break down sustainable fabrics and may introduce toxins into the environment. Stick to eco-friendly detergents or a simple solution of baking soda and vinegar for stubborn stains.
7. Rotate Your Swimsuits
Just like shoes, swimsuits need time to recover between wears. Rotating between multiple beachwear swimwear pieces helps maintain elasticity and prevents excessive wear.
Sustainable Swimsuit Care = Longer Wear, Less Waste
Taking a little extra time to care for your sustainable swimsuit helps extend its life, reducing the need for frequent replacements. By following these tips, you’ll not only keep your swimwear looking fresh but also contribute to a more sustainable fashion cycle—one stylish dip at a time.
Conclusion: Dive Into Sustainable Swimwear With Confidence
Choosing sustainable swimwear isn’t just about looking good—it’s about making a positive impact on the planet. By opting for women swimsuit brands that prioritize recycled materials, ethical production, and non-toxic dyes, you’re helping reduce plastic waste and support fair labor practices. Plus, with proper care, your beachwear swimwear will last for seasons to come, minimizing waste and saving you money in the long run.
Sustainability doesn’t mean sacrificing style or affordability. With so many affordable sustainable swimsuit brands available, you can find a design that flatters your body, aligns with your values, and keeps you comfortable all summer long. Whether you’re lounging on the beach, taking a dip in the ocean, or exploring tropical destinations, your eco-friendly swimsuit will be a statement of both fashion and conscious living.
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