Vegan Fashion Label Launches First Swimwear Line

New York-based vegan fashion label Vaute Couture just launched its first-ever line of swimwear and summer apparel. The new collection features one- and two-piece swimsuits, chiffon maxi dresses, skirts, rompers, bodysuits, and crop tops made from eco-conscious materials such as organic cotton and recycled carpet fibers—all sustainably cut and sewn in the New York City garment district. The company is also promoting positive body image by asking customers of all body types to share photos of themselves wearing the new suits on social media. Known for its animal-product-free coats and casual pieces, Vaute Couture is headed by vegan designer and model Leanne Mai-Ly Hilgart, who started the brand in 2009 as the first vegan apparel company in the world. “We’re growing so we could take on a big summer collection for the first time,” Mai-Ly Hilgart said. “Once we found we could make swimsuits out of recycled carpet fibers, it was a great match for the Vaute fashion formula—which is function plus ethics plus fashion.” The new line is available for preorder with a 50 percent discount until 2pm EST on Thursday, after which items will be discounted 40 percent for one week.