The Courier & Advertiser (Fife Edition)
A Perth firm is making a splash with a new line in ethical swimwear which is made using yarn from recycled fishing nets and carpets.
First swimwear range uses yarn made from old fishing nets and curtains
Perth lingerie firm Molke is hoping to make a splash with its first swimwear range with a proclamation that “all bodies are bikini bodies”.
Known for its colourful bras and passionate followers, the Perth underwear firm employs 17 staff from its manufacturing site at Perth Airport.
Formed three years ago, the firm has found success with its bras that are designed for a wide range of body shapes.
The growing company doubled its manufacturing capacity this year and had its best monthly sales in July when it took orders worth £90,000.
A year in development, the swimwear range comes after numerous requests from customers.
Creative director Kirsty Lunn said: “It was a true labour of love. We had to be sure that it would work for such a wide size range and be fit for purpose so we’ve tested it out thoroughly – thank goodness for wild swimming!
“There is so little swimwear on the market that is functional as well as supportive and in a decent size range, not to mention that is made with sustainability in mind.”
The fabric for the bikini, which went on sale yesterday, is made from a recycled polyamide yarn which is created from items that have reached the end of their useful life, like discarded fishing nets and nylon carpets.
Ms Lunn, who owns the business with friend Ros Marshall, said: “It is ultrachlorine resistant and so works well for swimming, as well as looking good.
“The swim bra can be adapted at the front so you can change the look and it goes to an M cup and covers band sizes 26-48, so UK dress size six to 38 roughly.
“Ethical clothing is always limited with sizing and this is even more apparent in swimwear. We have already had several fit checks and reviews from customers.”
Unlike the firm’s bras, which have designs ranging from rainbows to outer space, the bikini is currently only available in black.
But Molke plan to extend the range later this year with new styles and colours.
“As always, we listen to our customers and take on board all their comments,” Ms Lunn added.
“We are already working on a tankini top, with the bra integrated and swim shorts.”
Doubling the manufacturing space earlier this year has meant Molke has been able to bring all its workers back from furlough and keep them socially distanced.
Another two staff will join shortly as the firm looks to ramp up production and increase its exports.
Once volumes increase, the company plans to make a push for more sales in America, where it already has a lot of customers.