Blackbough Swim, an international swimwear brand based in the Philippines, advances sustainability with its latest collaboration launched on June 3.
Teaming up with Filipino artist Inya De Vera for the Bambi’s Ballet Collection, the collab showcases the country’s vibrant native fauna.
Beyond using recycled fabric and biodegradable packaging, Blackbough Swim leads impactful initiatives like coastal cleanups, removing truckloads of plastic waste, and donating over $1,000 for sea turtle conservation.
By collaborating with De Vera, Blackbough Swim merges art with conservation, actively protecting wildlife. The collection features buttery-soft swimwear, stylish apparel, and accessories. The true star of the collection is De Vera’s hand-painted design of the Philippine Spotted Deer, one of the most endangered deer species in the world, integrated into the collection’s prints.
The Philippine Spotted Deer (Rusa alfredi), is an endangered species native to the West Visayas. It holds cultural significance in indigenous mythologies and is considered sacred by some. As a keystone species, it plays a vital role in maintaining healthy ecosystems. Its conservation underscores the vulnerability of our environment and our responsibility to restore balance.
From coastline to treeline
Beyond showcasing the Philippines’ biodiversity, The Bambi’s Ballet Collection by Blackbough Swim includes a call to action.
From June 3 to 17, 15 percent of net profits from pieces featuring De Vera’s illustrations will be donated to the Talarak Foundation. Purchasing a bikini from the collection supports the conservation of the Philippine Spotted Deer. Partnering with the Talarak Foundation, a restoration organization in Negros Occidental, Blackbough Swim takes a significant step in environmental awareness and protection.
Established in 2010 by Fernando Gutierrez and Pavel Hospodarsky, the main mission of the Talarak Foundation is to protect populations of regionally endemic species through education, research, habitat restoration, and development of sustainable livelihoods for the local community.
From classrooms to nature reserves and forest parks to the wild, their team works diligently to push forth their vision of fostering harmony between communities and wildlife, protected and thriving in the West Visayas faunal region.
This strong call for sustainability comes with Blackbough’s commitment. Blackbough’s Chief of Brand, Beatrice Esguerra said, “By combining art with conservation, we’re not only showcasing the beauty of our wildlife but also actively contributing to its protection. We’re proud to support their vital work in preserving endangered species and habitats in the Philippines.”
Matthew Ward, Executive Director of the Talarak Foundation added, “Conservation cannot be done alone, and this collaboration is a beautiful example that will significantly aid our efforts. This partnership brings attention to the urgent need for conservation and inspires a deeper connection with our natural heritage.”
Art for advocacy
Inya De Vera is a visual artist and a lifelong learner who longs to showcase Philippine biodiversity through imaginative and ornate depictions. Traditional medical and botanical illustrations, typographic elements, and textile art influence her dreamy visions of flora and fauna.
“I was thrilled to collaborate on this project with Blackbough to spread awareness about the beauty and uniqueness of these species, which unfortunately need help with conservation. I hope we can raise awareness and contribute to the efforts needed to protect this vital cause through this collaboration,” shares De Vera.
Discover more about Blackbough Swim’s sustainability initiatives and explore the Bambi’s Ballet Collection here. To support the Talarak Foundation’s mission in wildlife conservation, visit https://www.talarak.org/
Want 15 percent off your first purchase at Blackbough Swim? Sign up at https://blackboughswim.ph/pages/email-and-sms-sign-up
