Sustainability-wise, swimwear can have a seriously detrimental effect on the environment. When it comes to our wardrobe, we all know that we need to shop more sustainably, but it’s especially crucial when it comes to swimwear. Why?, Swimsuits are made from synthetic materials such as nylon and polyurethane (a mix of Lycra, Spandex, or Elastane), whose production depletes natural resources.

These synthetic materials are all derived from petroleum oil which is problematic for several reasons. It produces environmental pollution during extraction and fibre production, harms natural resources and wildlands, and is non-biodegradable.

Another reason swimsuits tend to be less sustainable than other clothing is because synthetic material often doesn’t last long, losing its shape quickly – which leads to many replacements. Furthermore, swimwear is currently extremely difficult to recycle, resulting in polluted landfills and harmful microplastics released into the environment.

Taking care of our wardrobes is more critical than ever – and eco-conscious dressing shouldn’t be overlooked during the holidays. These days, there are numerous sustainable swimwear brands to discover, each offering stylish silhouettes and environmentally friendly production methods.

In a world where fast fashion is on the rise, we know we need to change how we shop. We can eschew fast fashion by renting or buying second-hand, where possible. If you are looking for something new for an upcoming holiday, consider shopping with brands that place sustainability first- after all, renting out swimwear is hardly realistic. 

Shop these sustainable swimwear brands for a guilt-free summer.

Matteau

Made in Australia, Matteau supports Australian textile manufacturing however it can. Matteau’s swimwear is made out of eco-friendly materials like Repreve, ECONYL, and yarn spun from fishing nets, fabric scraps, and industrial plastics.  With its efforts to offset carbon emissions and trace materials back to their original sources, Matteau is always striving to be as green as possible. In addition, Matteau is a brand that appreciates the uniqueness of everybody. Founders of the company Ilona Hamer and Peta Heinsen embrace all different body sizes and designed swimwear that would accommodate and empower all their customers. It’s no surprise that models and fashionistas, Jeanne Damas and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, are fans of the brand. 

Shop here: https://int.matteau-store.com/collections/swimwear

Fisch 

It is well worth checking out Fisch’s vibrantly coloured and printed Eighties-inspired poolside styles if you want to make a statement. Fisch is committed to “ocean upcycling”, transforming harmful ocean plastics into contemporary swimwear. Fisch is also a partner of Healthy Seas – a team of skilled divers that safely remove ghost nets from the ocean floor, which later make Fisch’s fabric. Each piece is crafted from econyl, and woven in a mill in Italy just two hours from their factory, minimising its carbon footprint, therefore reducing its environmental impact. As well as being eco-friendly, Fisch promises its customers that the swimsuits are long-lasting.

Shop here: https://fischswim.com

Vitamin A

Vitamin A is a California-based swimwear and beachwear brand that believes style and sustainability go hand-in-hand. As one of the first brands to introduce eco swim fabrics in 2010 with EcoLuxTM- a piece of ultrafine matte jersey fabric and EcoRib, which is a stretchy ribbed fabric made from recycled nylon and plant fibres, Vitamin A is still staying ahead of the curve by combining feminine design with sustainable innovation two decades later. The brand’s swimwear prints are inspired by ‘70s beach glamour. Water-saving digital technology is used to create the prints, while recyclable and biodegradable packaging boxes are used for packaging them. A variety of options are available- each one as eye-catching as the next. Vitamin A’s bikinis and bodysuits are designed and manufactured locally in California, significantly reducing shipping and transportation emissions. All dyeing and knitting of the fabrics are done in one place, further reducing their carbon footprint.  

Shop here: https://www.vitaminaswim.com

Peony 

The brand says its designs are “the first bloom of peony flowers”. 

Taking its name from the flowering plant that signals summer’s arrival, peony is the sustainable swimwear label encouraging us to live life fully. The brand combines classic shapes with soft colour palettes to create confident pieces, a reflection of Australian designer Becky Morton’s deep love of the ocean. 

Swimwear label Peony uses fabrics made from recycled polyester and specially developed linings in order to reduce waste to create sustainable pieces that are durable and strong. The brand aims to ensure that all processes and chemicals are environmentally friendly. The packaging also is biodegradable and compostable.

Shop here: https://us.peonyswimwear.com

Vanessa Sposi

Inspired by the rich culture and sunny settings of Ibiza, Vanessa creates a tableau of pastels and neutral tones reminiscent of the rising and setting sun.

Designing swimwear that is infused with natural antioxidants, aloe vera and vitamin E that soothes and nourishes the skin, Vanessa Sposi is a brand that is ethically made and eco-conscious. Placing sustainability at the heart of its mission, Vanessa Sposi uses oeko-tex certified fabrics, free of harmful substances and econyl- recycled yarn from ocean plastic waste. Resulting in cleaner oceans and swimwear that is good for your body. 

This brand is a member of ‘1% for the Planet’, which commits to donating 1% of sales to environmental non-profits annually.

Shop here: https://vanessasposi.com/en/ete-03/

Words by Chanelle Jassim

^{Header image: @vanessasposi_paris}

The post Sun, Swim and Sustainability appeared first on Voir Fashion.

If you need inspiration or are on the hunt for a new book, then keep scrolling:

Romance

It Ends With Us – Collen Hoover

This book went viral on TikTok, even though it was released back in 2016. A raw and honest love story about finding the strength to end an abusive cycle and making the right choices. This book will break your heart and change your life.

Lily hasn’t always had it easy, but that’s never stopped her from working hard for the life she wants. She’s come a long way from the small town in Maine where she grew up — she graduated from college, moved to Boston, and started her own business. So, when she feels a spark with a gorgeous neurosurgeon named Ryle Kincaid, everything in Lily’s life suddenly seems almost too good to be true. As questions about her new relationship overwhelm her, so do thoughts of Atlas Corrigan — her first love and a link to the past she left behind. He was her kindred spirit, her protector. When Atlas suddenly reappears, everything Lily has built with Ryle is threatened.

£ 4.50

It Ends With Us – Colleen Hoover

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Book Lovers – Emily Henry

A cold girl boss protagonist who doesn’t change her ways or mentality, is still appreciated for who she is and what she values.

Poppy and Alex have been best friends since college. Even though they are as different as two people can be, they just get each other. As life keeps them apart geographically, their only chance to catch up in person is to take an epic summer trip together every year. But two years ago, they had a falling out and haven’t spoken since. Now Poppy wants one more trip to fix everything.

£ 20.98

Book Lovers – Emily Henry

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Thriller and Crime

A Good Girl’s Guide To Murder – Holly Jackson

A small-town murder mystery that will keep you up at night. Honestly, you won’t be able to put this book away.

The case is closed. Five years ago, schoolgirl Andie Bell was murdered by Sal Singh. The police know he did it. Everyone in town knows he did it. But having grown up in the same small town that was consumed by the murder, Pippa Fitz-Amobi isn’t so sure. When she chooses the case as the topic for her final year project, she starts to uncover secrets that someone in town desperately wants to stay hidden. And if the real killer is still out there, how far will they go to keep Pip from the truth?

£ 14.78

A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder – Holly Jackson

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How To Kill Your Family – Bella Mackie

You probably shouldn’t read this book in front of your family. But this humorous little revenge and mystery book will leave you speechless!

Grace Bernard, an emotional detached women who happily killed six of her family members, is in Limehouse Prison serving a sentence for a crime she didn’t commit but that doesn’t mean to say she hasn’t committed some! Out of boredom and conversations with cell mate Kelly she decides to write her astonishing story. This tell all explains exactly what she is guilty of!

£ 11.99

How to Kill Your Family – Bella Mackie

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LGBTQ+

If You Still Recognise Me – Cynthia So

Follow a bisexual, Chinese-British Girl through a summer of self-discovery, loss and friendship. On her way, Elsie is confronted with beauty standards, the fetishization of Asian women, and wondering if you are ‘enough’. A beautiful book that will not let you go.

Elsie has a crush on Ada, the only person in the world who truly understands her. Unfortunately, they’ve never met in real life and Ada lives an ocean away. But Elsie has decided it’s now or never to tell Ada how she feels. That is, until her long-lost best friend Joan walks back into her life.

£ 8.25

If You Still Recognise Me – Cynthia So

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Never Been Kissed – Timothy Janovsky

If you, too, thought All the boys I’ve loved before would be even better if it was gay, then this book is perfect for you!

Wren Roland has never been kissed, but he wants that movie-perfect ending more than anything. Feeling nostalgic on the eve of his birthday, he sends emails to all the boys he (ahem) loved before he came out. Morning brings the inevitable Oh God What Did I Do?, but he brushes that panic aside. Why stress about it? None of his could-have-beens are actually going to read the emails, much less respond. Right?

£ 7.39

Never Been Kissed – Timothy Janovsky

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Easy Reads

Daisy Jones & The Six – Taylor Jenkins Reid

Here at Voir, we adore Taylor Jenkins Reid! She creates the most realistic characters that every time we finish a book, we need to google the Characters just to find out they are fictional. If you want to completely dive into a book without realising what is happening around you, this book is for you.

A gripping novel about the whirlwind rise of an iconic 1970s rock group and their beautiful lead singer, revealing the mystery behind their infamous break up. Everyone knows Daisy Jones & The Six, but nobody knows the real reason why they split at the absolute height of their popularity…until now.

£ 27.54

Daisy Jones & The Six – Taylor Jenkins Reid

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Small Pleasures – Clare Chambers

A light and beautiful novel about how quickly life can change – a real comfort read!

Set in 1957, Small Pleasures tells the story of Jean, who works at a local newspaper – the North Kent Echo – as ‘features editor, columnist, dogsbody and the only woman at the table’. She receives a strange letter from a woman who claims her 10-year-old daughter was the result of a virgin birth.

When she follows the story up, she becomes close to the letter-writer, Gretchen Tilbury, and her family. At first this new friendship is a source of pleasure. In time, it becomes complicated: firstly, Gretchen’s claim proves more difficult to debunk than anyone suspected; secondly, Jean develops feelings for Gretchen’s husband Howard.

£ 24.40

Small Pleasures – Clare Chambers

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Words By Maxi Pfeifer

^{Header Image: @youneedaread}

The post Your Holiday Reading List Edit Is Here appeared first on Voir Fashion.

One-pieces

Forget the idea that one-pieces are plain, dull and unsexy because it is completely false, take Hailey Bieber for example. Not only do they provide you with more coverage if you’re feeling more self-conscious, it can also double up as a ready-to-wear day outfit if you add a pair of shorts. You could also go for a lower neckline or exposed back if you’re feeling more risky. Opt for bold colours or pastel prints. Shop Hunza G and Gigi x Frankies Bikinis for the best finds.

Hailey

Gigi

£ 220.00

Frankies Bikinis Fawn Ruffle One Piece Swimsuit Regular price

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£ 155.00

HUNZA G – PINK SWIMSUIT

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£ 155.00

HUNZA G – ONE SHOULDER SWIMSUIT

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Cut outs

Crafty cut outs are a great way to flash more flesh without showing more than you want to. Shop Agent Provocateur for the sexiest finds.

Dua Lipa

Kourtney

£ 195.00

AGENT PROVOCATEUR – SLASHED SWIMSUIT

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£ 395.00

AGENT PROVOCATEUR – CUT OUT SWIMSUIT

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£ 27.99

NEW LOOK – PINK CUT OUT SWIMSUIT

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Power prints

Want to be loud and proud by the pool? Pack a punch with a power print and take inspo from Megan Thee Stallion’s hot girl summer fit. Opt for bold florals, bright stripes, animal prints and colourful gingham. As well as looking fresh, prints also distract the eye so they’re great if you’re not feeling too confident. Shop lingerie label Fruity Booty’s new swimwear line for a range of loud prints.

Megan

Zara

£ 80.00

FRUITY BOOTY – PAMELA PINK PRINT BIKINI

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£ 80.00

FRUITY BOOTY – EVELINA BLUE GINGHAM BIKINI

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£ 16.00

ASOS – LEOPARD PRINT BIKINI TOP

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Itsy Bitsy Teeny Weeny Bikinis

If you’re brave enough to bare all by the pool, opt for barely-there triangle bikinis to set temperatures soaring. Plus, get creative with your tying methods (as seen on Love Island there are now endless methods to tie bikini straps). These are loved by celebs and models who like to flash the flesh and we can see why… Shop Weekday for the best finds for a steal.

Hailey

Kendall

Kim

£ 19.00

WEEKDAY – PRINTED TRIANGLE BIKINI TOP

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£ 18.00

WEEKDAY – STRAPPY TRIANGLE BIKINI TOP

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£ 80.00

FRUITY BOOTY – PINK TRIANGLE BIKINI

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Words by Emily Hemsley

^{Header Image: Meg Thee Stallion}

The post Swimwear To Make You Feel Good In Your Skin And Hot By The Pool appeared first on Voir Fashion.

Picture the scene: you’re out with the girls, sipping on cocktails, moaning about the shocking non-summer we Brits appear to be undergoing. You jokingly check SkyScanner and see a cheap flight to a hot climate for a long weekend? Shall we? Can we? Yes, you bloody can – and here’s what you should pack.

Let me first tell you about the sarong. So often is the sarong overlooked and I ask, my God, why? It is the most versatile item of clothing in your wardrobe and absolutely perfect for a beach break. Skirt? Check. Scarf? Check. Beach cover-up? Check checkity check.

Silk slip skirts are your best friend and perfect for a warm summer’s evening. Pair it with a white tee-shirt tied up in a knot at the front, baring a little midriff for proper holiday vibes. Your white jeans that you once bought in good faith (“yeah, I’ll wear these”) can finally be worn in the glorious sunshine, with a pair of espadrilles or wedges. In fact, break out all your white clothes; go for prairie shirts and frilly linen dresses. Live your bohemian fantasy.

Obviously, no beach holiday would be complete without a swimming costume; before anybody even thinks twice about their ‘beach body’ a top tip in obtaining one is to have a body, and subsequently go to a beach. Look at Hunza G for gorgeous bikinis and increasingly popular one pieces *they’re belted* – tanned tums are so overrated. And honestly, any excuse to whip out a huge floppy hat, I’m a huge advocate for. Protect your scalp and face while also looking painfully chic, these hats are usually fold-proof and can fit nicely in your suitcase. Who doesn’t love a floppy hat wide enough to sail away on?

If, like me, after numerous lashings of sun cream your skin still remains fallible, try OUAI’s ‘After Sun Body Soother’ which comes as an aerosol and releases an icy foam creating an instant cooling sensation to relieve irritated, burnt skin, leaving you with a little shimmer afterglow. For salty, ocean hair, Kératase’s ‘Apres Soleil’ range is designed specifically for taming frizz and fighting dryness. Give your skin a chance to bathe in the sun, so try a tinted moisturiser with SPF; try Sisley’s brand new ‘Super Stick Soltaire SPF50+Teinte’ which acts like a tinted foundation stick, which you can easily buff out, leaving a light, non-greasy coverage. Nothing says beach break like bronzed, freckled cheeks and little rosy nose.

A weekend in the sun is the perfect opportunity to try out those statement earrings. Think chunky jewellery, anklets and toe-rings poking out of strappy sandals. Pair this with a clutch or a raffia tote bag for instant beach babe couture.

Finally, a good book is a necessity. There’s nothing more relaxing and fulfilling than finally taking the time to read that book you’ve been saying you would for the past year, in the sunshine, with the waves lapping nearby. Maybe even the most recent issue of Voir Fashion?

Check out Voir’s City Break packing list for more advice on The KonMari Packing Method, on-board make-up tips and ‘emergency underwear’. Bon voyage x

Illustrations by Sasha Green

The post Voir Sends You Packing: Beach Break appeared first on Voir Fashion.

With flights being cheaper than ever (and winter feeling longer than ever), a weekend away has never been so appealing. Here’s Voir’s condensed guide to making sure you pack wisely and economically for your city mini-break.

When it comes to sartorial choices, versatility is key. Plan and create a capsule wardrobe,

comprising a few pieces that are compatible with multiple garments. Sun dresses are always a

winner; they’re pretty and lightweight and can be dressed up with wedges or dressed down with trainers. They’re perfect for a warmer day with a pair of sunglasses or a baggy jumper if the weather isn’t playing ball. Similarly, cotton and jersey jumpsuits can be just as versatile, as well as bang on trend. Alternatively, think about taking silk camisoles or loose shirts which are lightweight, floaty and crucially don’t cling to your armpits so can be worn on consecutive days (shout-out to my fellow sniff-test Sweaty-Susie’s out there). Style that with a pair of jazzy palazzo pants or culottes and you’re good to go.

Pack comfortable trainers or tennis shoes, and roll socks and underwear inside them, to maximise space. In fact, roll all your clothing (like a proverbial sushi roll). Check out packing cubes if you’re serious about organisation, which helps delegate space appropriately, as well as keeping clothes and beauty essentials together and easy to find.

Check out The KonMari Method to spark unadulterated joy while packing.

Toiletries can be tricky, especially when you’re only permitted to bring what you can fit in that pitiful plastic bag. For a weekend away though, less really is best. A tinted moisturiser does two jobs in one, always with SPF as your skin won’t be used to the sun in other climates (hot or cold). Keep it simple with pared-back makeup and multipurpose items – think lipstick as blush,

bronzer as eye shadow and setting powder as dry shampoo. What’s appealing about mini-breaks is the opportunity to relax and rejuvenate, so let your skin do the same. Flying can be very drying on your skin, so check out cult beauty favourite Weleda’s ‘Skin Food’ which acts as an all-purpose skin balm that is both rich and creamy (and smells sweet with orange blossom, drool) and can be used on the face, body and hands. They have different versions too, effective for all skin types and ages – lighter or richer, depending on the coverage you need.

Let’s not split hairs here… you’ll need to leave straighteners, curlers and hairdryers at home

because they’re real space stealers. Just whack your hair in a bun or a low ponytail with a big pair of sunglasses (note, sunglasses also v. important – can be worn to block out the sun AND

disguise hangover hooded-eyelids) and a slick of lipstick – instant Hepburn elegance. Greasy hair can be easily concealed with a hair band or a chic, bohemian hair wrap. Keep jewellery to an absolute minimum; think understated with gold hoops and whatever day-to-day jewellery you normally wear. Regarding gadgets, resist throwing the wires and chargers recklessly in the suitcase as this is prime time for damage, so keep them all together and safe in a small purse. You’ll thank me later. Also, don’t forget an adaptor, obviously.

We’re all guilty of packing ‘emergency’ underwear – you won’t need them, I have faith in you and your continence, girl. Your weekend away should be a source of enjoyment and relaxation; you’ll be surprised about how much you can fit in your hold-all if you pack frugally and smartly. Now, go forth and mini-break in style. Send us a postcard.

Artwork by Luke Walwyn

The post Voir Sends You Packing: City Break appeared first on Voir Fashion.

We’ve created the ultimate gift-guide for the men in your life, and there’s links to all the products online so you don’t even have to leave the comfort of your pjs, you’re welcome!

Skin Care and Fragrance

Origins ‘Mini Musts’ Travel Set

This set contains five small versions of some of Origins best skincare products, including a moisturiser, face-wash and mask. It’s all natural, and packaged sustain-ably.

Aveda ‘groom-to-go’ Travel Set

We all have someone in our lives with hipster facial hair aspirations, and this is the perfect gift for them, it contains a shampoo, shave cream, and aftershave.

Clinique For Men Value Kit Daily Intense Hydration

This gift has skincare at its heart, with a charcoal face wash, cream shave, and hydrating water spray.

Jo Malone Pomegranate Noir Body & Hand Lotion

Winter months can leave skin feeling extremely dry and cracked, this lotion will sort that out, and it smells great as well!

Versace ‘Dylan Blue’ Eau de Toilette

This fragrance gives you an aura of stylishness and sophistication, with a highly distinctive, woody aroma, it makes a great gift for that tres-chic man in your life.

Yves Saint Laurent ‘L’Homme’ Eau de Toilette

L’homme has a deeply masculine aroma of oak and amber.

Molton Brown ‘Black Pepper’ Eau de Toilet

Black Pepper uses hints of ginger, lemon, (and of course, black pepper) to create an intense and sophisticated long-lasting scent.

Books

100 Years of Menswear

This book contains an expertly curated collection of images that cover the revolution menswear has seen over the last century, with text by fashion historian Cally Blackman.

The World According to Karl

Karl Largerfeld is one of the most magnificent men the fashion industry has ever witnessed, and so this book gives as a brilliant gift to anyone who’s even lightly interested in fashion.

Stocking Fillers

KADO terrazzo flask and enamel mug

Yes, mugs are a total Christmas cliche, however this flask/mug gift set is so unique it completely defies the cliche.

Paul Smith Signature Stripe Notebook

The Paul Smith stripe is iconic, and in an age of iphone notes, a little notebook can bring a refreshing nostalgia.

Kikkerland Retro Pens

To go with any good notebook, you need a good pen. Say goodbye to the days of cracked biros and treat your loved one to some retro metallic pens.

Chilly’s ‘all black’ Water Bottle

Sustainability has been a serious topic for debate in 2018, so this re-usable water bottle makes the perfect gift. It’s eco friendly, and aesthetic.

MeMe London Coconut Mens Bracelet

Something like this gorgeous little bracelet can make a simple present for someone special.

Hacket Curzon Leather Money Clip

This leather money clip makes a perfect little stocking filler and accessory.

Aspinal of London Luggage Tags

The set of two comes in a variety of different colours, it’s one for the traveller in your life.

Tateossian Classic Collar Stiffener

We all have a family member that wears a shirt to absolutely everything, this is the gift for them.

Ted Baker Pocket Square

Another one for that stylish man in your life, this pocket square adds a bit of flair to every outfit.

Hats

Herschel Supply Co Bobble Hat

As we go into the winter months, ears are going to need protection, so this simple bobble hat makes an excellent gift.

Tommy Jeans 6.0 Navy Embroidered Cotton Cap and Polo Ralph Lauren Blue Cotton Twill Cap

These two caps make a brilliant present for the street style lover in your life.

Christmas Treats

Creightons Christmas Chocolate

From Christmas pudding chocolate bars to white chocolate ‘I love sprouts’ truffles, Creightons creations are both inspired and delicious. Perfect for that extra little Christmas treat.

Osmology Christmas Candles

The smells of Christmas tend to bring back a nostalgia of happiness, and promote good moods. Osmologys ‘Jul’ and ‘Skog’ Christmas candles do exactly that, so treat the special men in your life to their own personal winter wonderland.

Animations and Montages: Simi Sahota

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The post Christmas Gifts For Him appeared first on Voir Fashion.