By Erin Trauth
Holy hotness… I think it’s pretty safe to say now that summer is quickly approaching, and we all know that means it’s nearly time to hit the beach to beat these temperatures. Aside from some good friends and a cooler full of vegan treats, all you need now is some stylish, cruelty-free beachwear to show off that healthy body of yours.
When it comes to bathing suits, we are, thankfully, in luck – most bathing suits are fashioned from synthetic materials such as spandex, lycra, and rayon due to their water compatibility. However, these materials aren’t the “greenest” options ever, so ladies you might try one of the several eco-friendly bikini lines on the market. The Anna Cohen line, for example, is made from organic cotton, bamboo, and recycled materials. I love this simple teal bikini for summer-long wear. This reversible bikini from Faerie’s Dance is also adorable and is made from recycled plastic bottles – double score! For the guys, I dig this 100 percent recycled nylon hybrid swim trunk. The contrasting stripes will set you apart – and you’ll be saving the environment in these trunks, too; if all of that doesn’t impress the ladies, well, I’m not sure what will.
Along with your rockin’ new bathing suit, you’ve gotta keep your feet looking good, too. For eco-friendly, no-fuss beach flip flops, I like the Chipkos brand. Comfortable and simple, this brand not only meets my footwear requirements, but while you are flouncing down the beach in these sandals, you’re actually helping more than just your tan – the company helps to conserve 100 square feet of rainforest land with every qualifying footwear purchase. Again, can’t go wrong here!
Photo courtesy of Chipkos
While you’re busy looking fabulous in your cruelty-free swimsuit and sandals, you don’t want to worry about carrying your keys, wallet, phone, sunscreen, and other necessities. The Ecolution Hemp brand carries an entire array of organic hemp, 100 percent vegan bags which are lightweight, easily washable, and completely perfect for the summer months. For the beach, I can’t think of anything better than their mini backpack to keep your hands free for other more important items (Read: Adult beverages! Vegan snacks! Frisbees!). Guys, try the Ecolution drawstring shoulder bag.
Okay, with all of these eco-friendly options available right now, I think it’s time to start planning my own beach getaway. If you have any favorite vegan summer beach fashion faves, please be sure to let us know in the comments below. Happy shopping!
