Ethical Swimwear Brands

Whether you’re an ocean lover, a lap swimmer, or simply like a good sun soak, swimwear is an essential part of any Australian wardrobe, and finding the right bathing suit can be a journey. Searching for ethically made swimwear can be a whole other venture.

That’s why Ethical Clothing Australia (ECA) exists.

The below ethical swimwear labels are accredited by ECA which means these brands value their garment workers, pay them the correct wages and entitlements and ensure that they’re working in safe conditions, according to Australian workplace laws.

With the buzzwords of sustainable and ethical being used by many companies in their marketing materials, it’s more important than ever to understand what these terms mean and what the companies you’re supporting actually stand for. Do they share the same values as you? And how do you navigate the wild landscape of fashion brands and fast fashion companies trying to get ‘in on the trend’?

When it comes to understanding “what is ethical fashion” there is a vast range of definitions and checkboxes. Many companies within the fashion industry attach their definition of “ethical swimwear” to sustainable fabrics, sustainable materials, vegan products, and recycled materials such as recycled fishing nets to reduce ocean waste. All to minimise their carbon footprint and, may even include organically grown fabrics. It’s great that they have all these awesome eco-conscious choices, but how do they treat their workers? Or what if you can find a business that does these things, while also protecting and respecting their garment workers?

Within the swimwear industry, there is also another definition of ethics that looks to redefine the traditional concept of a “bikini body” and the need to diversify size ranges. Many progressive brands are becoming aware of the need for inclusive models, including a variety of body shapes, body sizes, body hair, skin tone, and gender diversity amongst other areas that need greater representation.

These steps are all important in creating ethical and sustainable swimwear, however, they don’t address the core element of the ethical swimwear business which requires looking after their garment workers. ECA’s mission is to “protect the rights of both local factory-based workers and outworkers”. ECA defines ethical fashion with a fundamental focus on the fair treatment of workers, where local textile, clothing, and footwear workers (TCF) are paid what they deserve, receive all their legal entitlements and work in a safe environment. The accreditation check only covers swimwear that’s been made in Australia for those also seeking to support local businesses and workers.

ECA thanks you for taking the time to research and choosing an ethical brand for your next swimwear purchase.

What does ‘ethical’ swimwear mean?

These swimwear brands have been accredited by ECA. This means the manufacturing of these swimwear brands has been audited -from the design phase to pattern making and all the way through dispatch. ECA’s accreditation process involves annual compliance audits of these swimwear labels to ensure companies stay up to date, keeping workers’ rights protected.

Why shop for ethical swimmers?

When you purchase from an ECA accredited swimwear brand you can be confident that the business you’re supporting protects and upholds the rights of their Australian garment workers in every step of their supply chain. We want swimmers and bathers that are kind to our bodies and kind to garment workers.

In our experience, brands that care about their workers, care about each detail of their garments, making for an all-around better investment for you.

What items of ethical swimwear can I buy?

You can shop for your whole family and even nab accessories to complete your poolside look! When it comes to ethically made swimwear there is a massive range for men and women to choose from. Whether you’re a mix and match bikini kinda person or a one-piece wonder; after surfwear or quick-drying swimwear; desire a softer organic cotton blend set or swimmers made of recycled bottles; even board shorts made from recycled materials you’ll be sure to find what you’re after amongst our range of ethical swimwear brands.

If you’re interested in discovering and supporting more ethical fashion brands you may also like to shop ethical activewear, ethical underwear and ethical bags and wallets, all of which are ECA accredited.