The Hidden Cost of Fast Fashion — and Why Coastal Cool Does It Differently | Coastal Cool

The Hidden Cost of Fast Fashion — and Why Coastal Cool Does It Differently

By Coastal Cool Editorial Team
Published October 2025

In today’s world, clothing is cheaper and more accessible than ever — but at what cost? The fast fashion industry produces billions of garments each year, most of which end up in landfills or oceans. At Coastal Cool, we believe style should never come at the expense of the planet. Our mission is to prove that looking good and doing good can go hand in hand.

The True Cost of Fast Fashion

Fast fashion thrives on speed and volume. Garments are made quickly, sold cheaply, and discarded just as fast. Behind the low prices lies a hidden impact — massive water waste, toxic dyes, microplastic pollution, and unethical labor practices. It’s an industry built to encourage overconsumption, where quantity outweighs quality and environmental cost is ignored.

According to the United Nations, the fashion industry contributes up to ten percent of global carbon emissions. Synthetic fabrics like polyester shed microplastics into waterways every time they’re washed, threatening marine ecosystems. For a brand rooted in coastal living, we couldn’t accept that reality.

How Coastal Cool Does It Differently

From day one, Coastal Cool was founded on sustainability, not trends. Our collections are built to last, made from recycled plastic bottles and post-consumer materials that reduce waste and protect our oceans. Each piece is designed for comfort, durability, and performance — from swim trunks to bikinis — ensuring you wear what you love for years, not weeks.

Every product supports our One Pound Promise, helping remove one pound of plastic from the environment with each order. It’s a small change that creates measurable impact, transforming ocean waste into premium fabrics that look and feel incredible.

For Him: Sustainable Style Built to Last

Bora Bora Swim Trunks – designed with four-way stretch and recycled polyester for all-day comfort.
Palm Ave Swim Trunks – a coastal classic with vibrant tropical prints made from post-consumer materials.
Tidewater Swim Trunks – neutral tones, UPF 50+ protection, and eco-friendly durability for everyday adventure.

Shop the full Men’s Swimwear Collection made for life by the water.

For Her: Purposeful Design with Effortless Style

Blossom Bikini Top and Bottom – a timeless floral design made from recycled materials with a soft, seamless finish.
Vacation Bikini Top and Bottom – minimalist coastal style with comfort that lasts season after season.

Explore our Women’s Swimwear Collection or shop Matching Sets designed for couples who share a love of sustainability and coastal living.

Built Through Craftsmanship and Conscious Choices

We don’t chase trends — we build legacies. Each Coastal Cool product is designed with intention and tested for performance, from the fabric’s stretch and breathability to its impact on the planet. Visit Our Craftsmanship to see how sustainability and quality come together in every stitch.

Our Promise to the Planet

Through our ongoing Sustainability efforts, we’ve helped remove over 80,000 plastic bottles and 3,000 pounds of waste from our oceans. We’re not just building a brand — we’re building a movement that protects the coastlines we love and inspires others to make mindful choices.

Choose Better. Wear Longer. Live Coastal.

Fast fashion may be cheap in price, but it’s costly in impact. Coastal Cool is proof that there’s a better way. When you buy sustainable, you invest in quality, protect our planet, and redefine what style truly means. The choice is simple — protect paradise, one product at a time.