SB: When consumers and the media are condemning plastic and synthetic materials, Vilebrequin launched a men’s swimsuit made of recycled polyester yarn. How is sustainability at the heart of the brand’s D.N.A?
M.S.: In May 2019, Vilebrequin launched a swimsuit fully made with recycled polyester yarn named “Man”. We work with a group of 1,500 Spanish fishermen, who collect plastic waste in their fishing nets in the Mediterranean. Instead of throwing this waste back into the sea, which is what they used to do in the past, they bring it to the mainland. Plastic waste is sent to Spanish and French factories to be transformed into recycled polyester yarn. The “Man” swimsuit, priced at €135, is Vilebrequin’s most emblematic sustainable commitment. We take care, at our level, of the maritime world, which is at the heart of our brand’s DNA. This swimsuit has the same quality, visual and fee, plus the same drying properties as the rest of the range.
