Sustainability will be more than just a trend in 2025: especially in swimwear, environmental and ethical awareness will become increasingly important. Those who want to enjoy summer with a clear conscience will opt for ethical bathing suits that combine style, comfort, and responsibility.
In this article, you'll discover the best brands and learn what really matters when it comes to sustainable swimwear. Get inspired and find out how to take your summer look to the next level with ethical swimwear.
What makes a swimsuit ethical and sustainable?
Sustainability and ethics will be key themes in swimwear in 2025. Those who choose ethical bathing suits are looking for more than just a stylish look. It's about responsibility towards the environment, people, and the future.
Environmentally friendly materials: The core of sustainable swimwear
Ethical swimwear is based on innovative, resource-saving fabrics. Recycled materials such as Econyl, made from old fishing nets and carpets, or recycled polyester from PET bottles are particularly in demand. These fibers reduce the environmental impact because they require fewer raw materials and minimize waste.
Bio-based fabrics, such as those made from organic cotton or algae fibers, are also gaining in importance. They are often free of harmful chemicals and put less strain on the oceans. Choosing ethical bathing suits is therefore a conscious decision for nature and the seas.
Fair production and social responsibility
A truly ethical swimsuit can only be produced under fair conditions. This includes safe workplaces, fair wages, and transparency throughout the entire supply chain. Many labels rely on local production in Europe, short transport routes, and collaborative partnerships with seamstresses.
Social responsibility also means supporting local projects and empowering women. Some brands invest a portion of their proceeds in educational or environmental initiatives. Ethical bathing suits are therefore more than just a trend; they represent respect and solidarity.
Certificates: Guidance for conscious buyers
Certifications make sustainability promises verifiable. Among the most important are GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard), OEKO-TEX Standard 100, the Fair Wear Foundation, and B Corp. They monitor ecological and social criteria, such as the absence of harmful substances, fair working conditions, and corporate responsibility.
Those who specifically look for such labels can be sure that their ethical bathing suits were manufactured under strict regulations. You can find more details about GOTS on the GOTS certification for sustainable textiles , which is internationally recognized as a leading standard.
| certificate | focus | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| GOTS | Organic, Social, Environmental | Holistic approach |
| OEKO-TEX | Pollutant testing | Health protection |
| Fair Wear Foundation | Working conditions | Social responsibility |
| B Corp | Business ethics | Holistic effect |
Durability, design and conscious consumption
Ethical bathing suits focus on timeless cuts and high-quality workmanship. This extends their lifespan and minimizes waste. Environmentally friendly packaging, such as that made from recycled cardboard, completes the sustainable concept.
Consumption matters too: Buy less, but better quality; pay attention to care instructions; and use swimwear for a long time. Studies show that the textile industry contributes significantly to ocean pollution. The more sustainable choices we make, the greater the positive impact.
Ethical bathing suits are therefore an investment in style, the environment, and social justice. Those who make conscious choices in 2025 are making a strong statement for sustainable fashion.
10 Best Ethical Bathing Suits 2025 for Sustainable Summers
Summer 2025 is all about conscious fashion and sustainable choices. More and more people are placing importance on their swimwear being not only stylish but also ethically produced. The selection of ethical bathing suits is constantly growing and offers something for every taste. Here you'll find ten outstanding labels that impress with innovative concepts, high-quality materials, and genuine responsibility.
MAIN Design – Stylish swimwear made from recycled materials
MAIN Design will take a leading role in ethical bathing suits in 2025. With a price range of CHF 60 to 150, the Swiss label offers bikinis, one-piece swimsuits, kimonos, ponchos, and a children's collection for families who value sustainability. The collection impresses with its minimalist design, recycled fabrics, and UPF 50+ sun protection for children.
A particular highlight is their commitment to healthy oceans: 1% of sales go to Healthy Seas. Production takes place under fair conditions and with maximum transparency. The quality, fast delivery, and timeless design make MAIN Design the first choice for environmentally conscious swimmers.
The advantages are clear: stylish, functional, and responsibly produced. The only drawback is the focus on online sales and the Swiss market. For those who value high standards, MAIN Design's sustainability efforts are worth considering. This way, you can enjoy sustainable bathing with a clear conscience.
Anecdote – Upcycling & Zero Waste Swimwear
Anekdot will be launching unique ethical bathing suits made from upcycled materials in 2025. Prices start at €80, and each piece is handcrafted in Europe. Production relies on surplus materials and zero-waste principles, making every garment one of a kind.
Transparency in the supply chain underscores the high standards of sustainability. Anekdot appeals to individualistic women who seek creativity and exclusivity. The designs are exceptional, resource-efficient, and promote conscious consumption.
The advantages: unique styles and sustainable production. A disadvantage is the higher price and limited availability. Anyone looking for something special and who appreciates ethical bathing suits with character will find what they're looking for here.
Oy Surf – performance swimwear made from Econyl
Sporty women will find the perfect blend of function and sustainability at Oy Surf. Their ethical bathing suits are made from recycled Econyl and are ideal for active water sports enthusiasts. Prices start at €65, and the range includes bikinis, surfsuits, and rashguards.
All products are designed for durability and fairly produced in Portugal. The fit is optimized for movement, and the garments are slip-resistant and quick-drying. The target audience includes female surfers, athletes, and outdoor enthusiasts who value performance and style.
Advantages include high wearing comfort and sustainable production. Disadvantages include a simpler design selection and fewer options for men. Those looking for ethical bathing suits for an active lifestyle will find what they need here.
Underprotection – Scandinavian elegance with responsibility
Underprotection combines Scandinavian design with ethical standards. Prices start at €60, and the collection includes bikinis, swimsuits, and loungewear. All ethical bathing suits are made from GRS-certified recycled materials, are vegan, and B Corp-certified.
Minimalist design meets a wide range of sizes. Transparency and fairness are paramount. The target group is fashion-conscious women who value both environmental protection and ethical practices.
The advantages are the stylish cuts and the clear communication of the production conditions. The disadvantage: fewer sporty models are available. Those who want to combine Scandinavian chic with ethical bathing suits will find what they're looking for here.
RubyMoon – Swim & Gym with social impact
RubyMoon offers ethical bathing suits that are not only impressive in the water, but also at the gym. Prices start at €65, and the range includes multifunctional swimwear for sports and leisure. Recycled materials are used, which are also OEKO-TEX certified.
A unique selling point is the social added value: a portion of the profits goes to women's projects worldwide. The target group is sporty women who want to do good with their purchase. Versatility and social impact are paramount.
Advantages: Flexible uses and a real benefit to society. Disadvantage: Less focus on classic beachwear. Ethical bathing suits that do more than just look good.
Vitamin A – Luxurious EcoSwim from California
Vitamin A, launched in 2025, represents luxurious ethical bathing suits from California. Prices start at $100, and the brand offers bikinis, swimsuits, and cover-ups. Innovative EcoLux fabrics, recycled nylon, and organic cotton ensure a sustainable and comfortable feel.
The production process is climate-neutral and offers a wide range of colors for trendsetters who value luxury and the environment. The target group is fashion-conscious women who are looking for something special.
Advantages include high quality and carbon offsetting. Disadvantages: shipping from the USA and the higher price. If you're looking for exclusive ethical bathing suits with a Californian flair, this is the place for you.
Margaret and Hermione – Made in Austria
Margaret and Hermione brings art and sustainability together. Their ethical bathing suits are made from recycled Econyl, feature artistic prints, and are produced in Europe. Prices start at €120.
The product range is exclusive, the designs unique. Production is OEKO-TEX certified, offering additional safety for the environment and health. The target group is design enthusiasts who value origin and quality.
Advantages: local production and exceptional designs. Disadvantage: high price and limited selection. For art and design enthusiasts, these are the perfect ethical bathing suits.
Baiia – Reversible swimsuits for versatility
Baiia impresses with ethical bathing suits that can be worn multiple times. Prices start at €140, and the brand offers reversible swimsuits and mix-and-match styles. Recycled materials and inclusive sizing make the brand particularly versatile.
The 3-in-1 designs allow for different looks with just one piece. The target group is women who love variety and flexibility. The fit is suitable for many body shapes.
Advantages: Versatility and perfect fit. Disadvantages: More expensive and shipping from Australia. For frequent travelers and minimalists seeking ethical bathing suits with maximum functionality, Baiia is a top choice.
Stay Wild Swim – Female founded, ocean inspired
Stay Wild Swim focuses on ocean conservation and female empowerment. Their ethical bathing suits are made from Econyl and produced locally in London. Prices start at £90, and they offer bikinis, one-piece swimsuits, and sporty styles.
The brand is characterized by plastic-free packaging and a community focus. The target group consists of environmentally conscious individuals who want to make an impact and appreciate stylish fits.
Advantages include transparency and a strong sense of community. Disadvantages: price and limited color selection. Anyone looking for ethical commitment and modern ethical bathing suits should know Stay Wild Swim.
Mymarini – Slow Fashion from Hamburg
Mymarini stands for slow fashion and durable, ethically produced bathing suits. Prices start at €110, and the range includes minimalist bikinis, one-piece swimsuits, and unisex styles. Made from recycled fabrics and manufactured in Europe, the brand impresses with its timeless design.
The high-quality workmanship and focus on durability appeal to minimalists who value quality. The target group consists of purists and slow fashion enthusiasts.
Advantages: Timelessness and sustainability. Disadvantage: Simple design and higher price. Those looking for sustainable, ethical bathing suits with clean lines will find what they're looking for at Mymarini.
How to find the perfect sustainable swimwear
Finding the ideal ethical bathing suits is more complex than ever. With growing awareness of sustainability, criteria such as material selection, fair production, and durability are moving into focus. Here you'll learn how to find the perfect sustainable swimwear and what you should pay particular attention to in 2025.
Selection criteria
When buying ethical bathing suits, you should pay particular attention to various criteria:
- Fit & Comfort: Swimwear must fit comfortably and offer freedom of movement.
- Materials: Look for recycled fabrics such as Econyl or recycled polyester and for processing free of harmful substances, e.g. through OEKO-TEX Standard 100.
- Certificates & Transparency: Seals such as GOTS, OEKO-TEX or membership in the Fair Wear Foundation stand for sustainable and fair production.
- Value for money: Quality pays off, because durable products produce less waste.
- Customer reviews: Experiences of other buyers provide valuable insights into comfort and durability.
These criteria will help you find ethical bathing suits that are not only fashionable but also responsible.
Tips for sustainable consumption
To extend the lifespan of your ethical bathing suits, there are simple, sustainable measures you can take:
- Care: Rinse your swimwear after each use, avoid dryers and let it air dry.
- Durability: High-quality workmanship and robust fabrics ensure enjoyment for many seasons.
- Secondhand & Swap: Use platforms for used swimwear to save resources.
- Buy consciously: Invest in a few high-quality items rather than many cheap ones.
- Repair & Upcycling: You can often fix minor damage yourself or try out creative upcycling ideas.
Furthermore, it is worthwhile to focus on brands with recycled fabrics and fair production in order to further promote sustainability.
Sustainability trends 2025
The development of ethical bathing suits is progressing rapidly. Exciting trends can be expected in 2025:
- New materials: Bio-based fabrics and algae fibers set innovative accents.
- Circular economy: More and more brands are offering take-back and recycling programs.
- Personalization: On-demand production reduces overproduction and enables individual designs.
- Community-driven brands: Social impact initiatives and direct customer involvement are gaining in importance.
- Statistics: The demand for sustainable swimwear grows by about 10 percent annually, with recycled fibers being among the most popular materials.
A detailed overview of current developments can be found in the article Sustainable Surf and Swimwear Trends . Ethical bathing suits are thus becoming increasingly diverse, innovative, and relevant for a conscious summer.
Sustainable swimwear is much more than just a trend – it's a statement of quality, responsibility, and style. If you're looking for swimwear that not only looks great but can also be worn with a clear conscience, MAIN Design is the perfect place for you. Here you'll find timeless, stylish designs for women and children, made from recycled materials and with a genuine commitment to protecting our oceans. Get inspired and discover how sustainable swimwear can make your summer even better.