At Loco Boutique, our commitment to sustainability begins with the very fabric of our swimwear. Since 1978, we've been at the forefront of eco-friendly swimwear production in Hawaii, constantly innovating to reduce our environmental impact while delivering the quality and style our customers love. Discover the eco-friendly materials that make our swimwear not just beautiful, but also kind to our oceans and planet.

Recycled Polyester: From Bottles to Beaches

Our commitment to ocean conservation starts with the materials we use:

• Made from post-consumer plastic bottles, reducing waste in landfills and oceans.
• Requires less energy to produce compared to virgin polyester.
• Retains the performance properties of traditional polyester: quick-drying, durable, and resistant to chlorine and saltwater.
• Each Loco Boutique swimsuit made from recycled polyester diverts approximately 25 plastic bottles from the environment.

Environmental Impact: By using recycled polyester, we've prevented over 1 million plastic bottles from entering our oceans since introducing this material.

Innovative Performance Fabrics

We combine sustainability with cutting-edge performance:

• Dry Technology Performance Textiles: Moisture-wicking fabrics that dry quickly, reducing the need for frequent washing.
• Eco-Flex Fabric: Our proprietary blend of recycled polyester and spandex, offering superior stretch and recovery.
• UV-Protective Materials: Fabrics with built-in sun protection, reducing the need for chemical sunscreens that can harm marine life.

Innovation Spotlight: Our Eco-Flex fabric retains its shape 50% longer than traditional swimwear materials, extending the life of each garment.

Locally Sourced Materials

We prioritize local sourcing to support our community and reduce our carbon footprint:

• Partnerships with Hawaiian textile mills for unique, locally-produced fabrics.
• Use of native plant-based dyes and materials where possible.
• Collaboration with local artisans for handcrafted embellishments and accessories.

Community Impact: Our local sourcing initiatives support over 50 jobs in Hawaii's textile and craft industries.

Eco-Friendly Dyes and Printing

Our commitment to sustainability extends to our coloring and printing processes:

• Low-Impact Dyes: Water-based dyes that require less water and energy to apply.
• Digital Printing: Our in-house roll-to-roll printing facility reduces water usage and minimizes waste.
• Natural Dyes: Experimenting with dyes made from local plants and minerals for select collections.

Water Conservation: Our eco-friendly dyeing process uses 50% less water compared to traditional methods.

Durability: The Key to Sustainability

We believe that the most sustainable garment is the one that lasts:

• High-quality construction techniques ensure longevity.
• Chlorine and saltwater-resistant fabrics maintain integrity swim after swim.
• Classic designs that transcend fast fashion trends.
• Reversible styles offer versatility and extended wear.

Longevity Impact: On average, a Loco Boutique swimsuit lasts 3 times longer than fast fashion alternatives, significantly reducing waste.

The Future of Eco-Friendly Swimwear Materials

We're constantly researching and developing new sustainable materials:

• Biodegradable Synthetics: Exploring materials that break down naturally at the end of their lifecycle.
• Ocean Plastic Reclamation: Partnering with ocean cleanup initiatives to source materials directly from ocean waste.
• Bio-Based Fabrics: Investigating algae-based and other plant-derived materials for swimwear applications.
• Closed-Loop Recycling: Developing a program to recycle old Loco Boutique swimwear into new products.

Our Vision: By 2030, we aim to produce our entire line from either recycled or renewable bio-based materials.

At Loco Boutique, our dedication to eco-friendly materials is more than just a commitment to sustainability—it's a promise to our customers and our planet. Every swimsuit we create represents decades of innovation, a deep respect for our Hawaiian heritage, and a vision for a cleaner, more sustainable future. When you choose Loco Boutique, you're not just wearing a piece of Hawaii; you're part of a movement towards more responsible, eco-conscious fashion.

© 2024 Loco Boutique. Innovating sustainable swimwear since 1978.