Beach, please! August is really only good for one thing: soaking up the sun.
Sure, September might be all about getting back to school (and New York Fashion Week, of course), but August should be for relaxing and catching some rays by the beach or pool. And if you still have some lazy plans left this month, you’re in luck: a new summer collection from two eco-conscious brands is here with cool wardrobe essentials for just that—all made from leftover fabrics.
New York designer Maayan Sherris (you might know her from her stylish women’s swim line) has stepped into menswear by teaming up with L.A.-based brand Trim, designed by Richard Xiang. Their new men’s collection and campaign feature Sherris’s swim trunks, tees, and climbing pants made from recycled nylon, paired with Trim’s colorful polos made from deadstock cotton (prices range from $120 to $250). The duo wanted to show that you can embrace summer style in an eco-friendly way. “Lots of men’s swimsuits are ugly—but mine can be worn for swimming, running, or just hanging out,” says Sherris.
Photo: Tair Adato
Both Sherris and Trim’s pieces are made for movement: the new collection, shot by Tair Adato, was inspired by their shared customers who live active lifestyles (you know, the ones who surf or actually work out on the beach, not just sunbathe). “Working closely with guys who stay active and fit inspired me to dress them for the occasion,” says Sherris. “The body movements in sports challenge me to design new pieces and meet what people need.” Recycled nylon is perfect for people who really put their clothes through the wringer. “I’ve been using nylon and shaping it for a while now: it’s lightweight and dries fast,” she adds.
Many of the pieces are shown on models rock-climbing on a beach in Cyprus—a sport both designers love for its athletic challenge and sense of community. “It’s a sport you can do anywhere with anyone,” says Sherris. (The photographer, Adato, is also a big climber.) “Tair and his friend Manu like finding new spots to climb—they hike there, carry the safety mattress, shoes, and chalk, and go for it,” she says. “That’s inspiring to a lot of people, whether it’s their friends or just strangers they pass along the way. It looks fun and refreshing.”
Photo: Tair Adato
While the collection draws from New York, L.A., and Cyprus, Sherris finds all her deadstock nylons in the heart of Manhattan’s garment district. She enjoys hunting for them as much as designing with them. “I walk into all the stores between 35th and 39th streets, between 7th and 8th Ave, move rolls around, touch everything, and find good quality fabrics to work with,” she says. “There are some rare gems there, but you need to dig. The more you do it, the better you get, and you can find really nice materials that other designers gave away.”
Photo: Tair Adato
Photo: Tair Adato
Where does Sherris see her sustainable swimwear and Trim’s polos being worn this summer? Both designers say the sky’s the limit—you don’t have to save them for the beach. “Picnics, concerts, BBQs, and even clubbing—since it’s so hot and humid, it feels like summer isn’t ending anytime soon,” says Sherris. “The rain might suddenly pour down on you, so wouldn’t it be perfect to actually wear a swimsuit to work?”
You can shop the new pieces on both Sherris and Trim’s websites now.
Photo: Tair Adato
Photo: Tair Adato
Frequently Asked Questions
Here is a list of FAQs about a new summer collection featuring sustainable polo shirts and swimwear
General Product Questions
Q What exactly makes these polo shirts and swimwear sustainable
A It means theyre made with ecofriendly materials like recycled ocean plastics organic cotton or plantbased fibers The manufacturing process also uses less water and energy and the factories are certified for fair labor practices
Q Are the sustainable materials lower quality than regular fabrics
A No actually its the opposite The recycled polyester used in swimwear is just as durable and quickdrying as virgin polyester The organic cotton polos are softer and often more breathable than conventional cotton
Q Will the swimwear feel different since its made from recycled materials
A You wont notice a difference in feel It has the same smooth stretchy and lightweight texture as standard swimwear The main difference is that youre helping keep plastic out of the ocean
Q Do the polo shirts shrink after washing
A They are preshrunk so they should hold their shape However to be safe we recommend washing them in cold water and hanging them to dry rather than using a hot dryer
Q Is this collection more expensive than your regular line
A There is a slight premium due to the cost of certified sustainable materials and ethical manufacturing However because the quality is higher they last longer making them a better value in the long run
Sizing Fit Style
Q How does the fit of the polo shirts run
A They have a classic tailored fit If you prefer a baggier look we suggest sizing up The swimwear runs true to size
Q Are there different inseam lengths for the swim trunks
A Yes we offer a standard 5inch inseam and a longer 7inch inseam for those who prefer more coverage
Q Do you offer plus sizes or tall sizes in this collection
A Currently this specific sustainable drop goes up to XXL in polos and XL in swimwear We are working on expanding the size range for the next season based on demand
Q Can I mix and match the polos with the swimwear