In the world of fashion, inclusivity and cultural sensitivity have become more than just trends—they are part of a much-needed shift toward acknowledging diversity. One of the most powerful examples of this evolution is the rise of Muslim bathing suits, commonly known as burkinis or modest swimwear.
These swimsuits provide Muslim women with the freedom to enjoy beach days, swimming pools, and water activities while staying true to their faith and personal values. But the story of Muslim swimwear is about more than just fabric and modesty—it’s about identity, choice, and empowerment.
What Is a Muslim Bathing Suit?
A Muslim bathing suit is a type of modest swimwear designed to cover the body in accordance with Islamic guidelines for female modesty. Unlike traditional bikinis or one-piece swimsuits, Muslim swimsuits typically cover:
The entire body except for the face, hands, and feet
Hair, with an integrated or matching hijab-style head covering
The arms and legs, often with leggings and long sleeves
A tunic-style top that extends past the hips or knees
These suits are typically made of lightweight, quick-drying, and breathable fabrics, such as spandex and polyester blends. They are designed to allow full mobility in the water while maintaining coverage.
Why Muslim Women Wear Modest Swimwear
Muslim women wear modest swimwear for a variety of reasons—some religious, others personal or cultural.
1. Religious Beliefs
In Islam, modesty is an important concept. For women, this includes covering certain parts of the body when in public or in the presence of men who are not close relatives. The Quran and Hadith encourage both men and women to dress modestly. For women, this can mean loose clothing and covering the hair.
Therefore, wearing a burkini or Muslim bathing suit allows Muslim women to enjoy public beaches or pools while staying true to Islamic values.
2. Personal Comfort
Many women—Muslim and non-Muslim alike—prefer modest swimwear because it makes them feel more comfortable, protected from sun exposure, and less self-conscious.
Modest swimsuits are especially practical for:
Postpartum women
Plus-size women
Women who’ve undergone surgery or have scars
Anyone who simply prefers more coverage
3. Cultural Identity
For many Muslim women, wearing a modest swimsuit is also a way to express their identity with pride. In a world where Muslim women are often misrepresented or pressured to conform to Western beauty standards, the burkini stands as a symbol of choice and confidence.
A Brief History of Muslim Swimwear
The term "burkini" was coined in the early 2000s by Australian designer Aheda Zanetti, who wanted to create a swimsuit that was both modest and functional. She combined the words "burka" and "bikini", though the term is a bit of a misnomer—Muslim swimwear has little to do with the burka and much more in common with sportswear.
Since then, burkinis have grown in popularity and are now sold by major brands like:
Nike
Speedo
Modanisa
LYRA Swimwear
Adidas (limited collections)
From local beaches in Indonesia and Turkey to pools in Paris and California, the demand for modest swimwear is global.
The Controversy Around Burkinis
Despite being designed to promote inclusion and comfort, Muslim bathing suits have faced backlash, particularly in Western countries.
France and Burkini Bans
France, with its strict secularism laws, has been at the center of controversy regarding burkinis. Several cities tried to ban burkinis on public beaches, citing "public order" concerns. These bans sparked international outrage and debates about:
Freedom of religion vs. state secularism
Feminism and bodily autonomy
Islamophobia and discrimination
Ironically, while the burkini was created to help Muslim women participate in public life, some viewed it as a symbol of oppression—highlighting the double standard often applied to Muslim women.
The United Nations Human Rights Office criticized such bans, stating that “clothing bans cannot be justified on security grounds” and that they amount to discrimination.
Muslim Swimwear Is for Everyone
Although created with Muslim women in mind, modest swimwear has found a broader audience. Many women from different faiths and backgrounds have embraced modest bathing suits.
Popular reasons include:
Sun protection (especially for those with fair skin or prone to sunburn)
Cultural reasons (such as in conservative countries)
Body image concerns
Personal style preferences
Even some Christian and Jewish women, who also follow modesty principles in dress, have adopted these swimsuits.
Fashion Meets Function: Modern Styles and Brands
Gone are the days when modest swimwear looked dull or outdated. Today’s Muslim swimsuits are stylish, colorful, and sporty, blending fashion with faith.
Top Features of Modern Muslim Bathing Suits
Quick-dry fabrics that feel light in and out of water
UV protection, often UPF 50+
Chlorine-resistant materials
Adjustable ties to prevent floating garments
Zippers, thumb holes, and secure fit for active swimmers
Best Brands for Muslim Bathing Suits
1. Modanisa – One of the largest online platforms for modest fashion, based in Turkey
2. LYRA Swimwear – Known for its sleek, minimalistic styles
3. Ahiida – Founded by Aheda Zanetti, the creator of the original burkini
4. Nike Victory Swim Collection – High-performance modest swimwear for athletes
5. Veilkini – Offers a wide range of modest swimwear designs
These brands cater to diverse styles—from sporty to elegant—and a wide range of sizes.
Empowerment Through Choice
At its core, the Muslim bathing suit movement is about empowerment. It gives women the choice to enjoy water-based activities without compromising their beliefs, bodies, or sense of self.
Critics often assume that modesty is always imposed. But in reality, for many Muslim women, modest dressing is an act of agency—a personal and spiritual decision.
Just as some women choose bikinis to feel free, others choose burkinis for the same reason.
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