This summer I’m leaning into intention: choosing swimwear that doesn’t cost the earth, carving out self‑care rituals to soothe when the world feels too loud, and layering in my Ukrainian heritage in a way that meets my travel‑ready, editorial‑style sensibility. It’s about the intersection of what I wear, how I feel, and where I come from – all in one capsule story. Think linen dresses on the beach, scented rituals before sunrise, and the heritage embroidery I grew up loving turned into story pieces that travel with me. Let’s dive in.
You won’t catch me posting swimwear shots this summer because my self care routine did not include consistent gym (scroll down to see what it did include) – but we’ll all be buying some this season, so lets discuss. What does “sustainable swimwear” even mean? Because unlike a blazer or bag you might resell later, swimwear is intimate, skin‑tight, used in sun/salt/chlorine, and often ends up discarded. So the story here isn’t “buy used swim” (not ideal) but: buy better, choose fabrics you trust, pick styles that fit your body and that you’ll reach for again and again.
What makes a swimsuit sustainable?
Fabric choice: recycled nylon or polyester, regenerated yarns (Econyl or recycled plastic‑bottle yarns) reduce material use and waste.
Durability + longevity: When a suit is built to last, you’re buying less often.
Fit + quality: If it fits you right (just like lingerie), you’ll keep it. Whether you prefer padded, sporty, sexy, or covered – pick what makes you feel strong and comfortable.
Transparency and care: Brands that share materials, sourcing, and after‑life stories raise the bar.
Production footprint: Less waste + fewer harmful dyes + better social practices.
The world is burning (emotionally, socially, environmentally) and if you’re like me sometimes you feel small, helpless, or disconnected. So for Summer 2025, self‑care means more than a bubble bath – it means intentional nurturing of self + making choices that reflect your values. Here’s how I’m framing it.
My perspective:
It’s okay to be selfish for a minute. Protect your energy. Carve out the space you need so that you show up, not burn out.
Self‑care through activism: Choosing who you support with your money and time is self‑care. Voting with your wallet, consciously buying brands that reflect your values, showing up at meaningful events… all of this means you’re not just consuming; you’re contributing.
Connection and community: When you feel like you’re not alone, that creates strength. Support for Ukrainian causes, for women’s rights, for human rights = part of the way you care for yourself, because you’re recognizing you are part of something.
Rituals that ground you: Maybe a morning walk, a linen dress that makes you feel good, a swim in salt water, mindful breathwork, gratitude lists. Things that truly anchor you.
Travel as reset: Use upcoming travel (hello Jaipur & beyond) as a moment to shift gear: slow mornings, detailed outfit planning, cultural immersion, purposeful downtime.
On this blog, we talk about ethical fashion, brands and trends transforming the industry and we also support Ukraine – quick break to donate $5!
NGO dedicated to strengthening the country’s defense forces through equipment, training, analytics, and veteran support.
This one is especially personal. My Ukrainian roots are part of my story, and for Summer 2025 I’m weaving them into my travel style in a way that’s modern, intentional, and travel‑friendly (yes, India later this fall!).
Etnodim. I now own multiple button‑downs from this Kyiv‑based brand. Etnodim specializes in modern embroidered clothing (often linen) that draws on traditional Ukrainian motifs while being totally wearable. I’m taking them to India – the idea of blurring fashion borders, layering this heritage vyshyvanka over a light dress, or styling it with resort pants, feels natural.
Cukr & Sumy. On the hometown front: Cukr is a magazine‑shop based in Sumy (near the frontline of the war russia is waging), that supports local makers and cultural production. The fact that I support (and wear) pieces from near‑frontline areas means my wardrobe has meaning beyond aesthetics – it’s part of sustaining cultural memory and community. Every piece from a local maker is an act of solidarity and part of self-care too. Check out Cukr Shop: https://shop.cukr.city/ – you can get everything from tees to socks to candles straight from my home!
So that’s the plan for Summer 2025: sustainable swimsuits that feel like me, self‑care that isn’t self‑indulgent but self‑preserving, and style that honors where I’m from while roaming where I’ll go.
