“Ultimately we hope to create a brand that coexists with nature and contribute to a slow and circular model of business. Our goal is to design timeless collections that speak to female surfers, ocean dwellers, and the everyday woman who has a connection to the sea”.


LIMITED RUN. MADE TO LAST.

We are proud to diverge from the seasonal model of fashion, and instead focus on creating meaningful, high quality garments that are produced on a small scale. Our goal is to design styles that are worn year after year, staying true to the U&I active woman who respects and seeks out longevity, functionality & design.

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FABRIC CHOICES

Deadstock;
Many brands with large scale production often end up with leftover or end-of-roll fabric which is called ‘deadstock'. Unfortunately in most cases, these deadstock fabrics are eventually sent to landfill. We are committed to only using these high quality deadstock fabrics in our apparel range, which means whilst there are limitations around amounts and colourways, on the flip side it means that each garment is truly limited run. Handmade from the highest quality natural fibers, rest easy knowing every piece of U&I apparel that you own rescues material from ending up in landfill.

 

Recycled Nylon;
In 2018 we made the switch to using high quality Advanced Recycled Vita Power Xrtra Life LYCRA for our swimwear which is made from 100% regenerated nylon fibre from post-consumer materials.

Regenerated nylon is made from rescued waste that would otherwise be polluting the earth such as fishing nets, fabric scraps, carpet flooring & industrial plastic. Through a radical regeneration and purification process, the nylon waste is recycled back to its original purity! Which means it is exactly the same as fossil based nylon. As well as being a solution to waste it also assists with climate change, reducing the global warming impact of nylon by up to 90% compared with the material from oil. We can also testify to the great quality of regenerated nylon, if bought from a serious supplier it will last just as long as conventional Nylon. 

Duck Dive;
Currently our Hujan + Sade swimwear bottoms and our Illuvia Wrap top use Duck Dive. A 1mm thick fabric comprised of 84% polyester and 16% spandex, it is similar to Neoprene with a silk like touch. We have found the longevity of this material to be second to none, and whilst we would love to be using Yulex (a more sustainable neoprene alternative), the minimums and wait times for access to this material is unfortunately unattainable for a brand of our size at present. We have a good amount of the Duck Dive fabric role left for future styles and are committed to making sure we use this with no waste.

 

Paddle Out

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ETHICAL & SUSTAINABLE MANUFACTURING

All our swimwear has been designed and manufactured in Australia since day one. Our current collection has been produced in the Australian high country with our seamstress Kerry and her team who are veterans in the industry of working with stretch fabrics and lycra. 

For our apparel we have been lucky enough to have found a manufacturing partner in TTK Collective that has provided a wealth of guidance and support in ethical and sustainable production. We have direct lines of communication with our seamstresses in Vietnam who are experienced, passionate, and are all paid a sustainable living wage. Production facilities are set up in the women's homes, allowing them to work at their own pace and whilst still being able to look after their families. As mum’s ourselves we understand how truly important this is.

Our Seamstresses
Kerry - Sacul

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PLASTIC FREE

From our buttons to our packaging, we are committed to being 100% plastic free. Garments are protected in a unique garment bag made from deadstock fabric and shipped in home compostable mailers by better packaging co. All stickers (including mailing labels) are home compostable from no issue co.

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PROTECTING OUR COASTAL PLAYGROUNDS

By helping reduce the environmental impact of wardrobes, our goal is to unite water women across the globe to protect our coastal playgrounds and start conversations both in and out of the water to create positive change. 

We are actively involved in beach clean ups at our local breaks, and you’ll find us on the frontline fighting for our future generations. 

We are proud to partner with Surfers for Climate and currently donate 5% of profits to saving our seas. 

Surfers for Climate

Protect the Ottway Basin