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17 Sustainable Swimwear Brands for Summer

published on May 3, 2025 by Angela Hamilton

Does anyone else feel like it’s silly to buy a swimsuit, all year round, and the first heatwave hits and you panic? I’m trying to get ahead of it early for once, and to my surprise and delight am actually overwhelmed by the options we now have when it comes to sustainable swimwear. With the amount of ocean waste—such as fishing nets—and plastics, like water bottles—that can be recycled into swimwear, there’s no need for virgin nylon or polyester blends to be used. While I’ve long known about some of the more iconic swimwear brands on this list, such as Vitamin A Swim, I’ve also recently discovered so many new-to-me companies whose designs are just as impressive as their ethics. Below, find my top 17, and trust me when I say, thanks to the algorithm, I had a lot more to choose from.

(Pro tip: If you really want to find more ethical fashion brands, make sure you’re searching it online and on Instagram, like all the time. Creepy as targeted ads can be, I DO like that my feed is now filled with sustainable shopping!)

Find Your Suit from 17 Sustainable Swimwear Brands

1. Size inclusive swim brand Kitty + Vibe offers tons of prints, patterns, and styles, including creative collabs like this line created in partnership with slow fashion brand Noble. Their swimsuits are available in XS up to 6X, and there are options for different size busts and booties. Hallelujah! Suits are made from a recycled poly blend.

2. Natasha Tonic creates sustainable hemp swimwear made in Los Angeles. She is a one-woman show behind the concepts, design, pattern-making and production of swimsuits as well as activewear and linen clothing. Sizes XS-XXL. Comes in plastic-free packaging!

3. I know I’ve said this in other fashion posts, but Australia kills it when it comes to stylish ethical fashion. Baiia is home to the world’s first 3-piece wrap suit, a reversible design that gives you more bang for your buck.

4. Vitamin A Swim specializes in eco and recycled fabrics offered in their bikinis, one pieces, and coverups. Unfortunately, it looks like sizing is pretty standard, only XS-XL offered.

5. LA made Galamaar is simple, sexy, and made for the ultimate comfort and functionality. Shown above is their Butter Yellow One Piece Swimsuit. Also offered in XS-XL.

6. Swimwear brand SALNES offers worldwide shipping on swimsuits designed in Madrid and produced in Bogota. You can shop via Instagram or whatsapp. I’m unsure of their full size range.

7. Another Australian label bimby + roy makes intimates that you can sleep and swim in! XS-XXL.

8. Strange Bikinis offers biodegradable swimsuits (that can break down in a landfill) as well as those made with recycled plastic. Sizes S-3XL.

9. Another recent swimsuit discovery of mine is Manakai Swimwear, who is Hawaii’s first ethical swimwear brand. Once again… they’re reversible! S-L.

10. Cleonie Swim uses an eco friendly crinkle fabric (recycled polyester and ECONYL regenerated nylon) that is super stretchy to fit a variety of body shapes. They have gorgeous color block bikinis and one pieces.

11. Koraru swimsuits are designed in Tokyo, made in Colombia and give back to the Coral Reef Alliance.

12. LONDRE swimsuits are iconic. They are ethically and sustainably made in Vancouver, with sizes from XS-4XL. This top can be worn forward or backward!

13. Loop Swimwear offers eco swimwear for the global traveller. They have super fun prints and even offer rash guards. Everything is made from recycled plastic! (Photo: Shannon Tracy) Sizes XS-XL.

14. Scampi Swimwear is a Swedish swimsuit company that uses recycled fabrics. I love their color blocking! Sizes XS-XXL

15. Midori Bikinis is where comfort meets confidence. Their seamless, sustainable swimwear is made from LYCRA® XTRA LIFE™ and excess fabric is repurposed into dog beds donated to shelters. Their bikinis are available in an impressive array of prints and styles, and sizes XS-XXL.

16. Established in 2021, Berlook offers fun, trendy swimwear in tons of styles and colors, made from mostly recycled materials. I ordered from them in the past but the suits were too small (I think they run small in general), but they’ve since launched a plus-size option. They take pride in responsible sourcing and state that they use ethical manufacturing (I believe the products ship from China). Not all pieces are lurex, though a lot of them are, and I think given the rest of the brand’s practices it gives those looking for metallic styles a more sustainable alternative than the rest.

17. Dippin Daisys is an affordable swimsuit brand with virtually endless options for styles. All of their swimwear is made with recycled fabrics, and the elastic used in them is made from rubber trees! The full link is available for XS-XL, but they offer ten pages of options with sizing up to 3x.

Which sustainable swimwear brands are you buying this summer? Where do you find the best swimsuits?

25 Incredible Slow Fashion Brands You’ve Never Heard Of

published on April 16, 2025 by Angela Hamilton

Tired of clicking on those “best sustainable fashion” brand lists only to see Reformation and Everlane over and over again and not learn anything new? You’ve come to the right place!

While I love to focus on specific products for our ethical fashion guides, such as sustainable fanny packs, jumpsuits, or swimsuits, I know that a lot of you are looking for a simple list of brands you can feel good about shopping in general. I’m thrilled that there are so, SO many slow fashion labels out there to create such a list. Yet, the big blogs are all still talking about the same companies rather than helping you discover new solutions for your commitment to supporting small, slow, and sustainable. Whhhyy?!

25 slow fashion labels you haven’t heard of

In this list, we feature 25 brands that we bet most of you haven’t heard of, and a little about why you should check them out. I’ve made a couple quick notes such as where they’re based (all ship to US), their styles, and sizing, but be sure to visit individual websites for more details. I hope this supports your sustainable style journey! Not sure exactly what slow fashion is? See the end of this post for our take, then scroll back up for our reccs.

1. Tamara Malas is a small business known for fun, whimsical, and inclusive fashion made to last in limited runs. Designer Tamara created the brand for everyone who has found themselves included from fashion. They now have a flagship location in NYC!

2. Tuesday offers a gorgeous selection of completely handmade and hand-dyed kimonos, dresses, scarves, and tops. They’re based in here in the Pacific Northwest and since items are one-of-a-kind, sizes vary by product.

3. Oge Ajibe is a Vancouver, BC based size-inclusive slow fashion designer (XS-6X) who makes wardrobe staples by hand using natural and deadstock fabrics in beautiful vibrant colors (and neutrals too). She recently released a one of a kind collection made from special one-off fabrics you won’t find anywhere else.

4. Oh Seven Days is a slow clothing brand ethically creating clothing in Osmanbey, Istanbul from deadstock and sustainably sourced materials. They offer free worldwide shipping on orders over $150, and have recently expanded their offerings to a maternity capsule too. Sizes XS-XL. Shop all here!

5. Harvest & Mill is grown and sewn in the USA. They work directly with organic farmers, mills, and factories to produce their mens and womens basics. Mostly unisex sizing, with XS to XL.

6. Vanhu Vamwe combines traditional craft + modern innovation to create their luxury macrame bags, sustainably woven in Africa by their artisan partners. 10% of total sales go directly to women for women initiatives. Materials like recycled para-cord (made from plastic bottles) create long lasting, luxury products. ⁠

7. Isabella Eve Apparel makes custom, colorful fashion for all bodies, in Grand Rapids, MI. Everything is handcrafted to order by owner Isabella using your custom measurements.

8. I was a sari is a planet-first clothing brand based in Mumbai and Milan that empowers women in India with their slow fashion model. Their clothing is zero waste, produced only with materials that already exist, and therefore are limited edition. Read: If you love something, you want to grab it–it will likely never be back! This is also a very affordable ethical fashion brand! Their swing dresses are my favorite, and it’s hard to believe they’re only $50.

9. Half Asleep Co is the sustainable sleepwear brand behind these silky soft PJ and loungewear sets and sleep masks using 100% Tencel™ Modal Micro. They say, “From our plastic-free packaging to our synthetic-free products, we take our global footprint into account in every decision we make.”

10. Camas Lilly Co specializes in upcycled bridal and bridal party robes made with beautiful deadstock fabrics, helping you have a more sustainable weddings. Customize them to your wedding palette!

11. A certified b-corp out of Australia, All The Wild Roses offers vintage-inspired and cottagecore fashion such as smocked dresses, floral blouses, and eyelet skirts. They also offer a section for one of a kind vintage finds. If you love florals, this is the brand for you. Free worldwide shipping on orders over AUS $150!

12. Lovanie is a made-to-order slow fashion brand for petite women. Based in Seattle!

13. By KVP produces gorgeous loungewear and relaxed clothing like oversized robes and pant sets, wrap pants, and shorts from linen.

14. Gina Cusachs is a Barcelona-based sustainable fashion brand offering laidback, colorful womens clothing. They’re known for their bold, vibrant prints that adorn everything from easy dresses to bucket hats to silk scarves. I love that they offer reversible pieces, making two outfits in one!

15. LA Relaxed designs and creates all of their organic clothing under one roof in Los Angeles using nontoxic dyes. Their vibe is elevated chill–think organic cotton cardis, linen pants, and oversized tees.

16. Based in Portland, OR, slow fashion brand Ersa Fibers is a one-woman studio that custom makes every piece to order, upcycling scrap fabric into one-off products. (Sizes XS-5x)

17. Another ethical fashion brand out of Australia (that ships worldwide), RŪPAHAUS handcrafts womenswear, menswear, accessories, and even decor out of beautiful natural materials. They are meant to be investment pieces that become mainstays in your wardrobe. I love the soft colorways of their handwoven cotton pieces. Most pieces are currently available up to size XL.

18. Dynasty George‘s sustainable cottagecore dresses are created from natural deadstock fabrics and ethically made in India. Sizes XS-XXL and mommy and me children’s dresses offered.

19. In a world of sustainable basics, AGAATI features special occasion womenswear as well as bespoke custom tailoring.

20. Jacaranda is a Calgary-based slow fashion brand specializing in sustainable active and lounge wear using organic pima cotton.

21. Grey State Apparel makes easy, versatile womenswear that’s just as cozy as it is polished. They use ethical manufacturing, traceable fabrics and mineral dyes. Factories are certified responsible by Worldwide Responsible Accredited Production (WRAP).

22. Women’s clothing store Soluna Collective offers a range of ethically made and handcrafted styles from cargo pants and utility jackets to bodysuits and lounge pants. Most sizes are offered up to 3X.

23. Neems Jeans is an amazing slow fashion brand featuring custom denim made in LA for women and men. Build your own jeans by choosing the style, rise, wash, and stretch, and even where you want them to hit (ankle, below, or above ankle). Then, you’ll upload your measurements and they’ll start on your custom order! They’re $199 which is right in the range of most quality denim brands, except that these are ethically made and totally custom! (PS I haven’t tried them myself yet, I’m just really jazzed up about this concept and hope to soon!)

24. JOYTOAST is a playful, size inclusive brand (S-7X and beyond) made in Chicago by plus size creator Amy Lynn. They’re currently stocking mostly accessories, including adjustable bag straps that you can attach to any bag with removable straps, and wear in different ways.

25. Lastly, Swahlee makes capsule collections that provide effortless style with natural materials like peace silk and linen as well as upcycled fabrics. Besides providing an eco-friendly alternative to fast fashion, Swahlee’s mission is to create good, safe jobs for women in Northeast India.

what’s the difference between slow fashion, ethical fashion, and sustainable fashion?

Hope you like nuance. Slow fashion (or slow clothing), ethical fashion, and sustainable fashion can all be seen as alternatives to fast fashion, but they’re not all the same. It’s good to know their differences in order to avoid greenwashing while shopping. These terms aren’t regulated in any way, so it’s up to the brands themselves whether they want to label themselves any of these:

Slow fashion refers to clothing that is made in small batches. There’s no universal definition of how small these batches are made, but it’s understood that they are not mass produced. Usually these brands feature handmade clothing produced by either a small team or a single designer. It often includes custom and made-to-order fashion, which you see a lot of above! Because of this, slow fashion is not always ready-to-ship and can take days or weeks for it to make it from the maker to the consumer.

Whether or not a slow fashion brand should also be considered sustainable is often up to the consumer. For example, most of the brands on this list upcycle vintage or deadstock textiles, use natural fibers, or opt for organic over conventional cotton. But does that mean if a designer uses virgin fabric or a synthetic material that they’re not sustainable? That’s up to you. Generally speaking it’s still more sustainable than a fast fashion brand, but it may not be totally up to your standards if you prefer to avoid certain materials.

Similarly ethical and sustainable fashion often includes slow made clothing, but it doesn’t necessarily have to. A sustainable and ethical fashion brand, such as Eileen Fisher, for example, may operate on a much larger scale and therefore not fall into the “slow” category.

What is sustainable fashion? Sustainable fashion is usually used to describe the materials or process, or environment. Questions to ask: What is this made of? Are the inks and dyes used harmful to people or the environment? Does the factory the clothing is made in adhere to environmental standards? What waste do they produce?

Ethical fashion defines the social aspect, most often referring to the people who made the clothing. Questions like who made this? What are their working conditions like? Are they paid fairly? are asked.

This is where I’ve seen some greenwashing come in. It’s easy to assume that because a company brands themselves as sustainable that their clothing is also ethically produced, and vice versa. Early on in my blogging journey I was often approached by ethical clothing companies that put pretty much zero consideration toward the environment in their practices. While no one is requiring that an ethical brand be transparent about their sustainability practices, I can see why consumers might assume if a company checks one box, it automatically checks both. So be sure to ask all the questions, if all of these factors are important to you!

On eco club we use sustainable and ethical fashion pretty much interchangeably — we rarely report on any brand that doesn’t check both boxes. That said, we also consider that small businesses often have to work up to certain sustainability standards as more resources become available (ie organic and fair trade certifications can be costly) so, it totally depends. Nobody is perfect, but we try our best to break through the noise.

I hope this guide helped you! Please add any slow clothing brands you’d love to see added, in the comments!

Our Favorite Quotes from David Attenborough

published on April 9, 2025 by Angela Hamilton

Naturalist, broadcaster, and conservationist David Attenborough is definitely one of my heroes. The 96 year old has dedicated an entire lifetime to studying the planet, its history, diversity, and threats. There is a reason he is so well-known and celebrated by now. Of course, I’m inspired by anyone who has followed their passions and curiosity in such a way that it positively impacts lives beyond theirs–it’s just really special to see in a world so heavy. We’ve posted many David Attenborough quotes on @ecoclubofficial in the past, and looking through them inspired me to give a more proper tribute. Read on for our favorite environment quotes from the great Sir David Attenborough!

“It seems to me that the natural world is the greatest source of excitement; the greatest source of visual beauty; the greatest source of intellectual interest. It is the greatest source of so much in life that makes life worth living.”

“Every breath of air we take, every mouthful of food that we take, comes from the natural world. And if we damage the natural world, we damage ourselves.”

“We moved from being a part of nature to being apart from nature.”

“An understanding of the natural world, and what’s in it as a source of not only great curiosity but great fulfillment.”

“The fact is that no species has ever had such wholesale control over everything on earth, living or dead, as we now have. That lays upon us, whether we like it or not, an awesome responsibility. In our hands now lies not only our own future, but that of all other living creatures with whom we share the earth.”

“We need to work with nature, not against it.”

“People must feel that the natural world is important and valuable and beautiful and wonderful and an amazement and a pleasure.”

“We live our comfortable lives in the shadow of a disaster of our own making. That disaster is being brought about by the very things that allow us to live our comfortable lives.”

“We must rewild the world.”

“Give and take, that is the essence of what balance is all about.”

“The best motto to think about is not to waste things. Don’t waste electricity; don’t waste paper; don’t waste food. Live the way you want to live but just don’t waste. Look after the natural world and the animals in it and the plants in it too. This is their planet as well as ours. Don’t waste them.”

“Nature is our biggest ally and greatest inspiration.”

“The future of life on earth depends on our ability to take action.”

Which is your favorite David Attenborough quote?

How To Celebrate Earth Day Like Communities Around The World

published on April 9, 2025 by Mindy Chung

If you didn’t know, Earth Day is on April 22nd! And if you grew up in the US, you probably have this very picturesque image of planting trees, or picking up trash on the beach together, when you think about how to celebrate. It’s a cute idea (that requires a certain degree of extroversion), but one that may not represent more current sentiments around sustainability, eco-friendly action, and attainable goals… So if you’ve been trying to come up with a new way to celebrate Earth Day, why not pull inspiration from communities around the globe? Here’s a few ways other countries celebrate Earth Day around the world!

Japan

A family-friendly celebration takes place over the span of 2 days in Yoyogi Park every year. More than 100,000 people attend annually and enjoy a variety of activities and opportunities to learn about sustainability and sustainable companies.

Taking inspiration from Japan may mean hosting or attending a small get-together with friends to learn and share ways to be more eco-friendly in 2023 (who doesn’t love a reason for a hot girl picnic??).

Denmark

If you happen to find yourself in Copenhagen when they’re celebrating Earth Day, you get to experience a unique performance with drummers facing each corner of the earth. Afterwards, participants continue on to the March for Science which aims to hold elected officials accountable for greener initiatives.

Inspiration from Denmark may mean finding a local march to join or supporting a local charity event that is raising funds for eco-friendly movements in your community!

India

Earth Day in India encompasses a larger movement to raise awareness about ways environmental damage is affecting the country. And while conservation is a spectrum, they put on a host of events specifically centered around the protection of the endangered Asian elephant which is native to the country.

Some people wear green to celebrate Earth Day in India which is an easy way for you to show solidarity. But if you want to do more without having to leave the comfort of your home, consider donating to animal conservation groups or local shelters!

South Africa

The South African government considers climate change to be one of the greatest threats to the future of humanity. They host an Earth Expo each year that presents an educational forum for discussions centered around technology, entrepreneurship, sustainable nutrition, and more.

Want to celebrate Earth Day like South Africa? Consider watching a TED Talk on our current and changing ecosystems, or on new discoveries in the green tech space!

Spain

The Global Unity and Regeneration Gathering is a 24-hour event held in Lanjarón, Granada, Spain each year. Participants can attend workshops and presentations on environmentalism, and the spirituality of their connection to the earth.

Past workshops have included ways to cultivate spirulina pools, or how to build a self-regeneration water system which you can emulate by putting out a rain catcher barrel to water your plants, or finding easy ways to repurpose kitchen scraps.

It’s easy to get caught up in this idea of “doing enough” as an eco-conscious person, and that can lead to executive dysfunction when it’s time to actually try and do something good for the environment. These ideas inspired by other countries aren’t meant to intimidate you; they’re meant to show that meaningful action can happen at any scale. Don’t let the fear of judgment from others keep you from celebrating this Earth Day! Enjoy yourself, and do something good for you and the planet at whatever magnitude you’re comfortable and capable of.

photo by Karolina Grabowska

Where to Buy Sustainable Puffer Jackets

published on February 28, 2025 by Angela Hamilton

I’m not sure about where you are, but in Seattle we require coats that keep us warm and dry. And as it turns out, a lot of those out there do either/or, and not both. (Why do so many coats lack hoods? Why?) And of course, trying to find those are sustainably made adds an added challenge in a world where polyester reigns supreme (supremely cheap, I mean). So in an effort to find the right coat, I’m narrowing my search to the puffer. They’re pretty much all an investment, but we’re no stranger to expensive outdoor apparel in Seattle. If I am to spend the $$$, though, I want it to be high quality and sustainably made. I’ll probably never decide on one, but here’s the best and most eco-friendly and sustainable puffer jacket designs I’ve come across so far.

12 sustainable puffer jackets for the cold and rain

Photo by Ariana Ferwerda, the co-founder and CEO of Halfdays

For those in cold weather climates, you’ll want to peruse the whole Halfdays site. Everything looks so warm and chic… perhaps it’s because it’s made for skiiers, designed by fashion-forward women for women.

When I got an ad for the recycled nylon Davis Convertible Jacket – with recycled materials used in the lining, outer, and insulation – I literally stopped what I was doing to add it to this post. I haven’t tried this yet myself but it’s at the top of my list. They also have a packable puffer, Nellie, which comes in different colors. One of the recent reviews says, “Cost per wear girlies should get this jacket”. I mean…

For a lightweight version, Girlfriend Collective’s puffers are made from recycled plastic bottles. There are a few different styles and they are all on sale so get them while you can! (xxs-6xl)

Bernardo Hooded Puffer Jacket is made of recycled polyester. I have a recycled rain jacket from this brand and am really happy with the quality and more affordable price point than many other sustainable coats (wait for a Nordstrom sale or try the Rack!). (xs-xxl) FYI: They do mens as well.

I also love this Lite Quilted Coat from them! (xs-xxl)

Backcountry Raglan ALLIED Down Parka is made with 100% recycled polyester and Allied Feather Certified Down. Here’s another version they offer. Also in black! (xs-xl) Currently 65% off!

PE Nation‘s Represent Jacket is a convertible crop puffer jacket made with 100% recycled nylon. This one is sold out but it looks amazing as a vest. (2xs-3xl)

The Skyline Maxi Hooded Coat from Frank and Oak comes in four darker neutral colors, and features Thermore® Ecodown® insulation made from recycled plastic bottles. It’s also reversible! It’s this quilted design on the front, but you can also reverse it for a smooth shell and chest pockets. (xs-xl)

Frank and Oak’s other winter coat, the Hygge Puffer, is basically designed to feel like you’re wearing a big comfy duvet with its loose fit and shawl hood. Fun note for those who hate carrying their bulky coats around after arriving at their destination: it has a hidden strap so you can wear it like a backpack when you’re inside! (xs-xl)

Pow Recycled Insulated Jacket from Passenger is 100% recycled right down to the insulation. (xs-xxl)

Patagonia Women’s Downdrift Jacket is fair trade and even features recycled down. (xs-xxl)

Patagonia also has a parka version for all the sustainable snow bunnies out there. BTW, we all know Patagonia is known for expensive outdoor gear. They are a sustainable company that makes products to last (they even share repair DIY videos to help you keep your clothing out of landfills as long as possible), and the price point really reflects that. Don’t forget to peruse their Worn Wear pre-owned site before buying new, which features secondhand Patagonia gear, in case there’s something for you there. (xxs-xxl)

All of Norden’s garments, like the Sky Blue Puffer Jacket, are made with recycled and repurposed materials. (xs-xxl)

Shop more puffer coats below!

I’d love to hear where you shop for sustainable puffer jackets. Let me know and I’ll add to this list! Hopefully we can edit our article soon to add more size-inclusive companies. So few of the ones I found went above a xxl.

Cozy & Sustainable Shirt Jackets For Fall Layering

updated on April 12, 2025 by Angela Hamilton

It’s cozy season and I’m realizing how many more layers I need in my everyday outfits, unless I’m just going to give up going outside for the next few months… which will be tempting enough once the holidays are over. Luckily one of our favorite fall staples, and coziest fall trend: the womens shirt jacket, is offered in sustainable fabrics and ethical production from a variety of retailers. While I’m all for perusing my local thrift shops for secondhand men’s flannels (they tend to do the trick), I know it can be hit or miss. Here are some more shacket options for those of you shopping online this season. Many of the picks below are unisex or come from brands that offer sustainable mens shirt jackets too, so give each shop a look around!

Outerknown’s organic cotton Canyon Shacket in worn indigo is the perfect thick denim shacket.

Cozy Earth’s Bouclé Shacket comes in olive, charcoal gray, and cream. I like that it’s a longer style and perfectly tailored.

Chroma Blanket Shirt in Chestnut from Outerknown has a relaxed and textured look.

prAna’s Bridges Flannel Jacket is made from organic cotton with a recycled polyester lining.

Tentree’s recycled fuzzy jacket is probably more jacket than shirt, but depending on where you live, that might just be what you need. Looks so cozy!

If you’re looking for a womens shirt jacket of the corduroy variety, this Stoic Overshirt from Backcountry is for you.

This Passenger fleece womens shirt jacket in Oatmeal is made from recycled polyester sherpa fabric. Love all 4 colors!

Patagonia’s 100% recycled fleece shirt jacket is nice and thick for those chilly months ahead.

For a lighter version, Frank + Oak’s Overshirt comes in French terry that’s 90% organic cotton. It has hidden seam pockets! Frank + Oak has a large selection of men’s overshirts and jackets as well.

Looking for something more weatherproof? See our guide to sustainable puffer jackets here!