Everything You Need To Know About Modest Swimwear

Dressing modestly can sometimes become more difficult than ever, especially for swimwear. Swimwear has always been a part of discussions. Some think they lead to increased anxiety and self-consciousness among women. Others support the idea that they are a matter of choice and preference. Modest swimwear has risen as a hot topic in this discussion. 

It was earlier believed that only Muslims look for modest clothes and swimsuits. Over time, there has been an increase in other mature women preferring such outfits. They believe that these clothes enhance their self-confidence. 

Finding the perfect modest swimwear has always been a challenge for women. If you are new to this idea, get along and explore everything you need to know about it. 

What is a Modest Swimwear?

Modest swimwear is a full coverage outfit appropriate for swimming. Usually, Muslim women wear modest swimwear at a public pool or beach. The idea of modesty and modest clothing varies from person to person. Therefore, there are a variety of options available when it comes to modest swimwear. 

These clothes are not limited to Muslims. Anyone who wants to wear them can do so. 

Modest Swimwear: A Breakthrough in the Swimsuit Fashion Industry

For years, the swimsuit fashion industry has revolved around the traditional bikini or shorts. Finding modest swimwear that provides full body coverage has always been a tough row to hoe. Due to this, many women would have to compromise their passion for swimming. It included those who do not want to wear revealing swimwear due to their comfort, culture, religion, or personal preference.

Swimsuits have evolved a lot over the past few years. It is good to see that fashion brands have started embracing modest and decent swimsuits. They prove that modesty does not affect fashion or activity. You can wear whatever you want (in terms of coverage) and be as active as others. 

How to Select the Right Swimsuit

The availability of a variety of options makes the selection of the perfect swimsuit difficult. It might make you anxious, leading to choosing the wrong swimsuit. Here are some simple tips that can make it easy for you. You can follow them to get the perfect modest swimwear. 

Consider your Body Type

Everyone’s body is unique and beautiful in its own way. Your body type significantly impacts how you dress and style yourself. You must consider it while selecting every type of dress. It includes casual wear, formal and informal wear, and swimwear. It ensures your comfort. 

Whether you are looking for some simple suits or stylish options, choose the one that makes you feel your best. Your body type does not restrict you from wearing your desired outfit. The only thing you have to consider is that it fits you well. Comfort must be your first priority, and then comes styling. Otherwise, a too tight or too loose dress can make you self-conscious.

Coverage you Want

As discussed earlier, the idea of modesty and modest clothing differs among different persons. The common thing in it is the body coverage. You must first decide how much coverage you expect from your swimsuit. Would you want one that covers your whole body, or would a moderate coverage be fine? Decide it beforehand so that the further process becomes easier for you. 

Quality of Fabric

Buying good quality swimwear is an investment. They might seem expensive but can turn out to be durable for years. The fabric’s quality also impacts comfort and ease. To enjoy a seamless swimming experience, your first concern must be quality. Usually, nylon, polyester, cotton, and lycra enhance swimwear quality. 

Color and Style

Choosing the right style and color is as important as other factors. You can choose bright and vibrant colors or decent colors as per your preference. The choice between plain and printed is also your pick. Select the style that suits your body type and makes you feel relaxed and comfortable. Do not follow a trend blindly at the cost of your confidence and comfort. 

Chlorine Resistance

If you plan to use your swimsuit for swimming in a pool, it is crucial to ensure that it is chlorine resistant. It will keep your suit looking like new for a long time. Pool water contains high amounts of chlorine that can cause the color to fade. It may also affect the life of the fabric. 

Sun Protection

Many brands specialize in modest swimsuits with better SPF to enhance sun protection. Make sure you check it before buying. Harmful sun rays can cause more damage to your skin than you think. 

13 Popular Modest Swimwear Options

Luckily, a wide range of options is available for women looking for swimwear that provide more coverage. We have compiled a list of the most popular modest swimwear for them. Explore all options before deciding which one suits you the best. 

1. Burkini

This is probably the most popular modest swimsuit available in the market. The name burkini is derived from Burqa, a long gown covering the whole body. The burkini also covers your complete body from head to legs. The face is not covered, and neither are the hands and feet. The majority of Muslims prefer it because it fulfills their criteria of modest swimwear. 

This outfit is comfortable to wear, even if worn for long hours. Besides offering good coverage, it also looks modish. It is the complete package combining style, comfort, and durability in a dress. They come in different colors, prints, and styles.

2. Tankini Tops

Tank tops never go out of fashion. Whether you are looking for an easy to carry casual wear or a swimsuit, a tank top can serve the purpose. A two-piece tankini comprises a tank top and a high waist bottom. You can pair the top with a full coverage bottom, and you have nice and stylish modest swimwear. 

They look great with floral, printed, or plain hijabs. Wrap it around your head after securing your hair so that you are free to move in the water. 

3. Swim Skorts

If you are looking for a fashionable bottom, you might like a swim skort. You can wear it with swim shorts or leggings. They are comfortable to wear and offer a sleek look. You can choose the length according to your comfort and convenience. Make sure you consider your height and body type while getting one for you. 

4. Swim Leggings

Are you a fan of swim skirts but don’t consider them modest for wearing? Here is the solution. Pair it with matching leggings, and you are good to go. It is a comfortable, fun-looking, decent outfit that keeps you cool and stylish. For the top, you can either wear a shirt or a tankini top and complete the look with a hijab. 

You can also wear them without a skirt or a tankini top. It suits young girls and women in their thirties both. Wear it on the beach or pool and make a statement with your style. 

5. Swim Shorts

Swim shorts are also quite popular among women. They come in varying sizes and lengths. You can choose the length according to your comfort. They are usually loose-fitted and therefore more comfortable and breathable. They are more suited for beaches in summer. You can pair them with a nice full-sleeve swim top and a hijab. 

6. Marine Swimsuit

Marine swimsuits resemble burkinis in coverage and style. It covers the whole body, including the head. It is easy and comfortable to wear. Many women prefer it because it is ideal for swimming at beaches as well as pools. 

The swimsuit includes a top with long sleeves and a cap covering the neck and head. The bottom is a loose trouser that covers the legs till the ankles. You can wear it in pools to protect your body from harsh chemicals in the pool's water and sun rays. 

7. Rashguard Tops

Rashguard tops are usually meant to protect you from sunburns and tanning. People use them to protect their bodies from sun exposure at beaches. They are designed to cover most parts of your body. Due to this, they serve the dual purpose of sun protection and body coverage. 

Source: Pexels.com

8. Swim Skirts

Swim skirts are one of the most fashionable swimsuits among women. These skirts are designed especially for swimming and therefore cause no hindrance in movement inside water. It is perfect for professional swimmers and others who want to enjoy swimming in their comfort zone. 

9. Swim Dresses

As the name indicates, these are comfy dresses used for swimming. They usually consist of medium-length shirts and dresses. They can be paired with swim shorts or leggings. They are made with fabric and other materials used in other types of swimsuits. There is so much variety in swim dresses that allows you to get a swimsuit that suits your body type. 

10. Midkinis

Midkinis are a modest alternative for a bikini. It is a two-piece swimwear with better coverage than a bikini. It includes a top covering your chest, back, and stomach. It might be sleeveless or have full sleeves. It is paired with a high waist bottom. They come in vibrant colors and prints. You may also opt for plain options if you want. 

11. Coverups

Cover Ups are fun to wear and look the most stylish. They cover your whole body with a loosely stitched dress. You may wear them over your swimsuit after coming out of the water. They are perfect for wearing on a beach. There are a variety of options for stylish coverups. It includes kaftan, skirts, and sarongs. 

They offer a variety of styling options. You may find it your best friend when going to a beach irrespective of what type of swimsuit you wear. A smart tip is to choose a coverup made of fabric that does not crease easily. This makes it easy to carry in a bag and pull out within moments. 

12. High Necklines

When selecting a top, go for the ones with high necklines. You can go for high-collared necklines or a cross-neck. They offer great coverage for the upper part of the body and protect you from harmful sun rays also. This looks so fashionable and allows you the freedom to style your hijab as you like. 

13. Bandeau Necklines

Bandeau necklines can be an ideal swimwear choice. It is also suitable for athletes as it covers the chest laying straight and flat. It offers a balanced and modest look, and you can pair it with leggings or trousers of your choice. 

Why Have Modest Swimwear Become So Popular?

Modest swimsuits have grown dramatically in terms of popularity. They were difficult to find a few years ago, and now you are flooded with amazing options. Following are the reasons for its growing popularity that does not seem to come to an end.

Image by @nike

• Skin Protection: Skin care is a major concern, especially among women. Excessive exposure to the sun can lead to several skin diseases and complications. Modest swimsuits serve as a barrier to harmful sun rays. 
• Boosts Self-Confidence: Women who are shy to wear traditional swimwear consider them a blessing. It allows them to enjoy swimming without any barriers comfortably. It also helps women with insecurities to fight anxiety and low self-esteem. 
• Increased Comfort: Loose-fitting and oversized clothes usually feel more cozy and comfortable. They allow your body to breathe and easily perform routine activities. They also prevent rashes on the body caused by sweating. 
• Represent Diversity: Modest swimwear represents diversity and freedom of wearing what makes you feel comfortable. They make up for the need for diversity that was lacking in the swimwear fashion industry. 
• Women Empowerment: These clothes ensure women that they are free to style as they want rather than following the traditional practices. You can endorse your idea of modest clothing by wearing fashionable yet modest swimwear.  

Bottom Line

Many brands have come forward in launching good quality modest swimwear. One of the most popular among them is Nike. The ease of availability has led more and more women to jump into this trend. They are suitable for all women irrespective of their age and size. Hopefully, this guide will be helpful for you this summer to show off your modest beach look. 

Modest Swimwear FAQs

What is considered modest swimwear?

A swimsuit covering your body from your neck down to your ankles is considered modest swimwear. It may also include a hijab or a cap to cover your head. 

Can you create your own modest swimsuit?

Yes, you can create your own modest swimsuit. Wear a long and loose shirt with trousers or workout pants. Tie a swim hijab around your head and complete the look with a nice pair of joggers. 

Which is the best modest swimwear?

A burkini is the best modest swimwear. It provides the best coverage, comfort, and style. It is easy to wear and suitable for swimming with or without tides. 

How to feel confident wearing swimwear?

You can feel confident wearing swimwear by understanding that your appearance does not define you. No well-mannered person cares about whether you are wearing a revealing swimsuit or a modest one. Your confidence comes from within. 

Which hijab is the best for swimming?

The swim hijabs made from lightweight, quick-drying, and non-clinging fabric are the best for swimming. They are usually soft and stretchy and offer better grip. 

Do modest swimsuits protect you from the sun?

Yes, modest swimsuits protect you from the skin. They prevent tanning and sunburns. They cover most parts of your skin and thus prevent it from getting affected by harmful sun rays.