Staff Reporter
AFTER growing up in rainy Cumbria, Liam Hughes took any chance to build up a tan, spending his career as a pilot living in the world’s sunniest destinations.
But, while living in South East Asia, he saw the dark side of beach living, cleaning up huge amounts of plastic waste from the coastline.
Much of this waste was footwear, so he was excited when his wife gifted him a pair of flip flops from sustainable brand, Waves.
Using 100% natural rubber, these €25 flip flops are plastic free, recyclable, biodegradable and vegan.
The material is harvested from Sri Lanka’s rolling hills with sustainable methods, earning Waves FSC certification.
Their bright colours and durable materials make them the perfect compliment to any beach outfit.
That’s why Liam has brought the Waves brand to stylish Barcelona, where he is collaborating with local swimwear company, Bikinis 5H.
Run by Florance Huarte, an Argentinian expat, Bikinis 5H offers swimwear made from recycled ocean plastic.
The brand also offers sportswear, beach coverups, mens and kids options, all made from sustainable, non toxic, biodegradable materials.
Each piece is ‘beautifully’ handmade in small, timeless collections from just €18.
Waves and Bikinis 5H have previously collaborated, dressing models for Barcelona Sustainable Fashion Week.
This summer promises big things for the brands, as they set up a joint pop up shop on Barcelona’s Diagonal.
The shop will be open throughout August, offering ‘really cool fashion with a conscience.’
If you can’t wait until then, check out their online stalls wavesflipflops.es and bikinis5h.com.
