From Trash to Treasure: Pioneering Sustainable Swimwear at 18

Meet Tai, the visionary founder of Tai Swim Co., who started her journey by turning literal garbage fishing nets into beautiful bikinis for art projects in high school. In a world driven by consumerism and fast fashion, Tai's passion for sustainability and preserving the 'aina of her homeland led her to embark on a pioneering adventure in the swimwear industry.

The Early Days
As a high school student with a flair for creativity, Tai found herself crafting unique bikinis for her friends to earn some extra cash. Little did she know that this humble beginning would spark a fire within her. Her cultural roots & knowledge of the fragility of Hawai'i's marine ecosystem, she felt compelled to take action and make a difference.

The Turning Point
As a junior in high school, Tai took the plunge and transformed her hobby into a sustainable business. She realized that discarded fishing nets and ocean waste were wreaking havoc on marine life, and she saw an opportunity to create change. Determined to pioneer the concept of eco-friendly swimwear, she set out on a mission to make a positive impact on both the fashion industry and the environment. While Tai Swim Co's official launch was many years later, the suits from her first collection as a teen sparked the flame that lead her to making her own business in her homeland.

The Journey to Sustainability
Tai Swim Co. began its journey by using reclaimed materials to craft stunning bikinis. Tai's dedication to sustainability led her to explore recycled ocean waste as a key component in her designs. Every piece in the collection tells a story of transformation - from trash to treasure, creating swimwear that embodies both style and purpose.

A Privilege and a Responsibility
Growing up in Hawaii, Tai has an intimate understanding of the importance of caring for the 'aina. She recognizes that being raised in this paradise is a privilege and a responsibility. With this profound awareness, she strives to create swimwear that aligns with the ethos of her homeland - respecting nature, preserving the environment, and supporting the local communities she grew up in.

Inspiring Change
Tai's dedication to sustainability has not only revolutionized her brand but has also inspired others to follow in her footsteps. Her commitment to the environment has opened doors for collaborations with like-minded partners and customers who share her vision for a cleaner, greener future.

Every day, Tai reflects on her incredible journey. From crafting bikinis out of fishing nets to creating swimwear from recycled ocean waste, she has come full circle. With every bikini she creates, Tai continues to make the world a better place, one stitch at a time.