Sustainability in 2025 is not just a hype, but a real statement on the beach. More and more fashionistas are looking for solutions that combine style and environmental awareness.
This article will tell you which eco-friendly swimsuits are setting trends this year and why they are more than just a fashionable accessory.
But what exactly characterizes sustainable swimwear? It's innovative materials, fair production, and a conscious use of resources.
Look forward to seven inspiring trends that show how fashion and the environment can go hand in hand. Get inspired for your next swimwear purchase and live your sustainable lifestyle.
What makes a swimsuit truly environmentally friendly?
Sustainability in fashion is no longer a niche topic. But what exactly is behind eco-friendly swimsuits, and how do you distinguish genuine sustainability from greenwashing? Here you'll learn what truly matters when it comes to environmentally friendly swimwear.
What does sustainable materials mean?
The basis for eco-friendly swimsuits is innovative materials that conserve resources and avoid waste. Recycled nylon and polyester, often made from old fishing nets or plastic bottles, are particularly popular. Organic cotton is also used, provided it is grown without pesticides and with less water.
These materials offer crucial advantages: they reduce waste, save energy, and protect the oceans. According to Healthy Seas, around 640,000 tons of ghost nets end up in the sea every year, which can be given a second life through recycling into new eco-friendly swimsuits.
Certifications and labels: How can you recognize genuine eco-friendly swimsuits?
Not every product lives up to its promises. Reliable certifications help you identify genuine eco-friendly swimsuits. The most important include:
| Label | Meaning |
|---|---|
| GOTS | Organic cotton, social standards |
| OEKO-TEX | Non-toxic textiles |
| ECONYL | Recycled nylon from waste |
When making your choice, look for awards like these. Many brands, such as MAIN Design, provide transparent information about their sustainability efforts and have their materials regularly certified. This way, you can be sure that your purchase truly makes a difference.
Fair production and transparency
Sustainability goes beyond materials. Eco-friendly swimsuits are produced under fair working conditions with secure wages. Socially responsible production means that seamstresses and workers are protected on site and their rights are respected.
Transparent brands disclose their supply chains, providing insights into working conditions and production processes. This builds trust and gives you the opportunity to consciously choose ethically produced, eco-friendly swimsuits.
- Fair wages and safe jobs
- Short transport routes, local production whenever possible
- Disclosure of production sites and suppliers
Durability and conscious consumption as the key
An often underestimated factor when it comes to eco-friendly swimsuits is their lifespan. High-quality workmanship and robust fabrics ensure that your swimsuit lasts for many seasons. Choosing quality over fast fashion saves resources and protects the environment in the long run.
Conscious consumption also means buying only what you truly need and properly caring for your eco-friendly swimsuits. This extends their lifespan and reduces their environmental footprint. Every conscious decision counts – for you and for the planet.
The 7 best eco-friendly swimsuit trends for 2025
Sustainability will be at the heart of swimwear in 2025. Eco-friendly swimsuits will become the norm because they combine fashion consciousness, environmental responsibility, and innovative materials. The following seven brands and trends demonstrate just how diverse and stylish sustainable swimwear can be. Whether minimalist, luxurious, or sporty – here you'll find your new favorite look that will delight not only you but also the planet.
1. MAIN Design: Minimalist styles made from recycled materials
MAIN Design from Switzerland stands for eco-friendly swimsuits that perfectly combine minimalism, functionality, and sustainability. The bikinis, swimsuits, and surf bikinis are made from recycled nylon and polyester, conserving resources and reducing the ecological footprint. The UPF50+ models for children are especially appealing to families and surfers.
Prices vary depending on the model, with free shipping on orders over CHF 120. The company donates 1% of its revenue to Healthy Seas, an initiative dedicated to saving marine life and removing ghost nets from the oceans. Swiss quality is evident in the durability and craftsmanship of the products.
Materials & special features:
- Recycled nylon & polyester
- UPF 50+ sun protection for children
- 1% for Healthy Seas
Advantages:
- Durable and quick-drying
- Timeless, minimalist design
- Sustainable production with a transparent supply chain
Disadvantages:
- Premium price level
- Limited color selection
Ideal for: Style-conscious individuals seeking eco-friendly swimsuits without compromising on quality and sustainability. Surfers and families especially benefit. Those wanting to learn more about sustainable surf bikinis can find inspiration among our selection of surf bikinis made from recycled materials .
2. Vitamin A: Luxurious EcoSwim with organic and recycled materials
Vitamin A is considered a pioneer in luxury, eco-friendly swimsuits. The brand uses organic cotton and its proprietary EcoLux™ nylon, made from recycled fishing nets. Timeless cuts, high-quality workmanship, and carbon-neutral production make the swimwear a sustainable investment.
Bikinis start at around €100, one-pieces from €150. The wide selection of colors and designs is aimed at women who value comfort, style, and environmental awareness. The fabrics are particularly soft against the skin and retain their shape even after many washes.
Materials & special features:
- Organic cotton, recycled nylon (EcoLux™)
- CO2-neutral production
- Large selection of designs
Advantages:
- Very durable and comfortable to wear
- Variety of classic and trendy styles
- Sustainable, fair production
Disadvantages:
- Higher price range
- Shipping is from the USA
Ideal for: Fashionistas looking for premium-quality, eco-friendly swimsuits with a modern look. Perfect for anyone who wants to combine luxury with environmental awareness.
3. Oy Surf Apparel: Surf swimwear made from marine waste
Oy Surf Apparel takes eco-friendly swimsuits to the next level. Their sporty bikinis and surfsuits are made from ECONYL®, an innovative fabric created from recycled fishing nets and marine debris. Production takes place in Europe, guaranteeing short supply chains and fair working conditions.
Prices start at €80 for bikinis and €120 for surfsuits. The fits are specially designed for active women and surfers – non-slip, with high UV protection and optimal support during movement. The collections are sporty and modern, focusing on functionality.
Materials & special features:
- ECONYL® (recycled fishing nets)
- European production
- Focus on performance
Advantages:
- Perfect fit during sporting activities
- High UV protection
- Transparent, fair supply chain
Disadvantages:
- Less classic, more sporty styles
- Focus on performance rather than a wide range of colors
Ideal for: Active women and female surfers looking for eco-friendly swimsuits that stay in place even during waves and action. If you value sportiness and sustainability, this is the right choice.
4. Ayla Swim: Biodegradable swimwear
Ayla Swim sets new standards for eco-friendly swimsuits by using biodegradable polyamides and recycled fabrics. These innovative materials are compostable, thus protecting the environment even after their lifespan. With prices starting at €90 for bikinis and €130 for swimsuits, Ayla Swim targets zero-waste enthusiasts and early adopters.
The cuts are modern, flattering, and demonstrate that sustainability and style are not mutually exclusive. The brand invests heavily in research and development to drive material innovation.
Materials & special features:
- Biodegradable polyamides
- Recycled materials
- Compostable swimwear
Advantages:
- Pioneering work in materials research
- Stylish, innovative cuts
- Environmentally friendly life cycle
Disadvantages:
- Limited availability still available
- Higher prices due to costly development
Ideal for: Trendsetters and environmental pioneers who prefer eco-friendly swimsuits that leave no waste after being worn and still meet all design requirements.
5. Stay Wild Swim: Made in London from ocean plastic
Stay Wild Swim produces eco-friendly swimsuits right here in London. The label uses ECONYL® made from ocean plastic and places great emphasis on transparency and community building. Their swimwear is stylish, modern, and appeals especially to urbanites and community-minded women.
Prices range from €90 for bikinis to €140 for one-piece swimsuits. The collections are limited, guaranteeing exclusivity, and production remains local to ensure fair working conditions. Stay Wild Swim is more than a fashion brand – it's a movement for sustainable female empowerment.
Materials & special features:
- ECONYL® made from ocean plastic
- Production in London
- Community-oriented approach
Advantages:
- Transparent supply chain
- Stylish, modern designs
- Strong women's community
Disadvantages:
- International shipping costs
- Limited collections
Ideal for: Anyone who wants eco-friendly swimsuits made in Europe and wants to be part of an active community. Especially appealing for urban women who combine sustainability and style.
6. AURAI SWIM: Ethics meets innovation from Brazil
AURAI SWIM from Brazil proves that ethical production and innovation go hand in hand. Their eco-friendly swimsuits are made from Amni Soul Eco®, a biodegradable material, and recycled fabrics. The brand places great emphasis on transparency, fair working conditions, and resource-efficient manufacturing.
With prices starting at €70 for bikinis and €120 for one-pieces, AURAI SWIM offers sustainable swimwear for individualists and environmentally conscious travelers. The designs are simple, functional, and emphasize timeless elegance.
Materials & special features:
- Amni Soul Eco® (biodegradable)
- Recycled materials
- Ethics and transparency
Advantages:
- Rapid biodegradation
- Ethical production
- Innovative material combinations
Disadvantages:
- Shipping from overseas (longer delivery times)
- Less choice in Europe
Ideal for: Individualists and conscious travelers looking for eco-friendly swimsuits with ethical standards and innovative materials.
7. Reformation: Trendy eco swimwear for fashionistas
Reformation is known for trendy, eco-friendly swimsuits that appeal especially to young women. The brand uses recycled nylon and sustainable fabrics for fashionable bikinis and swimsuits. The focus is on stylish cuts, transparency, and a strong social media presence.
Prices start at €80 for bikinis, while one-pieces start at €120. The selection is large, with styles ranging from classic to eye-catching. However, the size range is limited, and the models are less suitable for athletic use.
Materials & special features:
- Recycled nylon, sustainable fabrics
- Trendy designs
- Transparent production chain
Advantages:
- Large selection of current cuts
- Strong social media presence
- Transparent sustainability strategy
Disadvantages:
- Limited sizes
- Focus on fashion rather than sports function
Ideal for: Style lovers who want eco-friendly swimsuits that combine trends and sustainability. Perfect for anyone who wants to stand out fashionably while making a statement for the environment.
Materials & Innovations: What's behind sustainable swimwear?
Sustainable materials are at the heart of modern eco-friendly swimsuits. They determine not only the ecological footprint, but also comfort, functionality, and style. In 2025, the focus will be on innovations that combine fashion and environmental protection. But which fabrics make the difference?
Recycled nylon: ECONYL® and others.
A milestone for eco-friendly swimsuits is recycled nylon, especially ECONYL®. This material is made from old fishing nets and other waste that would otherwise pollute our oceans. Brands like Oy Surf Apparel and Stay Wild Swim specifically use ECONYL® to conserve resources.
The advantages are obvious: less plastic waste, lower energy consumption, and high durability. Recycled nylon is in no way inferior to conventional fibers in terms of comfort and style. This way, your swimsuit not only stays beautiful for longer but also protects the environment.
Biodegradable materials and innovative developments
A particularly exciting development for eco-friendly swimsuits is the use of biodegradable materials like Amni Soul Eco®. These fibers decompose in landfills within a few years, instead of lasting for decades. Brands like AURAI SWIM and Ayla Swim are also investing in biodegradable polyamides.
Innovation is also evident in new fabric blends that are both flexible and sustainable. Such material innovations make it possible to create fashionable and functional swimwear that leaves as little trace as possible after use.
Organic cotton and pollutant-free dyeing processes
Organic cotton is another important component of many eco-friendly swimsuits. It is grown without pesticides, which protects soil and water resources. However, its processing is complex, as cotton is less elastic than synthetic fabrics.
Modern brands are therefore relying on environmentally friendly dyeing processes. These methods avoid toxic chemicals and save water. This results in vibrant colors without harming the environment. However, challenges remain: organic cotton is more expensive and less often suitable for sporty cuts.
Data, trends and the impact of innovations until 2025
Studies show that recycling saves up to 50 percent CO2 and reduces water consumption significantly. The use of innovative materials in eco-friendly swimsuits prevents thousands of tons of plastic waste annually. More and more brands are focusing on transparency and new technologies to further minimize their environmental footprint.
Anyone who wants to delve even deeper into the world of sustainable fabrics and trends will find exciting insights into materials, brands and developments at Sustainable Swimwear 2025 .
Innovations are shaping the market: With every new fabric and every clever idea, the possibilities for truly sustainable swimwear are growing. This makes every swimsuit purchase a statement for both the environment and style.
Care & Longevity: How to make your Eco Swimsuit last longer
Proper care determines how long your eco-friendly swimsuits will truly last. Sustainable materials like recycled nylon or organic cotton are durable, but also sensitive to improper treatment. Anyone who loves their swimwear pays attention to how it's cleaned and dried, right from the first wear.
Why care is so important for eco-friendly swimsuits
Eco-friendly swimsuits benefit greatly from gentle cleaning. Ideally, hand wash your swimwear in cold water. Avoid harsh detergents and do not wring it out. Dry it flat in the shade to protect the fibers. Machine washing and tumble drying shorten the lifespan because friction and heat damage the material.
For even more tips, check out our swimwear care tips for a handy overview. This will help maintain the quality of your eco-friendly swimsuits for many summers to come.
Tips for maximum longevity
Avoid contact with chlorine, sunscreen, and rough surfaces. These can damage the fibers of eco-friendly swimsuits and cause colors to fade faster. Rinse your swimwear thoroughly after every swim. Use a laundry bag if machine washing is necessary.
A simple care routine makes a big difference. High-quality, eco-friendly swimsuits, when properly cared for, often last twice as long as conventional models. This saves resources and money.
Repair & upcycle instead of throwing away
A small tear doesn't have to mean throwing it away. Many brands now offer repair services or provide replacement parts. Simple damage to eco-friendly swimsuits can be quickly repaired with a needle and thread.
Upcycling is also a sustainable solution: old bikinis can be transformed into headbands, bags, or patchwork accessories. The longevity of eco-friendly swimsuits is the most important sustainability factor, because every additional year of use saves resources and reduces waste.
Sustainable lifestyle on the beach: More than just swimwear
A sustainable lifestyle at the beach begins long before reaching for eco-friendly swimsuits. Those who truly want to make a difference pay attention to every detail of their beach visit. From choosing accessories to sunscreen, you can achieve great things with small steps.
Zero waste on the beach: Clean & stylish
Zero waste is an important part of wearing eco-friendly swimsuits and wanting to do even more for the environment. Opt for reusable water bottles, lunchboxes, and cutlery, and avoid single-use packaging. Sustainable beach towels made from organic cotton or recycled fibers are not only comfortable but also durable. Families should check out sustainable children's swimwear trends to dress even the youngest members of the family in an environmentally conscious way.
You should also look for sunscreen that is free of microplastics. Many brands now offer mineral-based alternatives that are better for both you and the marine environment.
Sharing & Secondhand: The new swimwear culture
Besides eco-friendly swimsuits, you can also save resources through sharing concepts and secondhand purchases. Many platforms offer swimwear rentals or the option to buy used items. This extends the lifespan of products and protects the environment at the same time.
Sustainable beach bags, ponchos, or even picnic blankets made from recycled fabrics are practical additions to your day at the beach. This way, your ecological footprint remains small even on vacation.
Together for the ocean: Community & Clean-Ups
A sustainable beach lifestyle with eco-friendly swimsuits also includes local engagement. Community events like beach clean-ups, organized by initiatives such as Healthy Seas, are a great way to get involved. You can also start your own initiatives or join local groups.
Every plastic cup collected and every piece of netting that doesn't end up in the ocean counts. With conscious choices and small gestures, you can initiate real change and bring the sustainability trend to life on the beach.
You can see how exciting and diverse sustainable swimwear is in 2025 – from minimalist cuts to innovative materials that combine fashion and environmental protection. If you're now ready to make a difference yourself and discover high-quality, durable swimwear that not only looks good but also does good, then let yourself be inspired. At MAIN Design, you'll find stylish designs made from recycled materials that combine Swiss quality and sustainability. Take your time browsing and discover how easily your next favorite piece can also contribute to protecting the oceans.