Summer’s here (barring the odd cool day or rain shower), which means beaches, pools and swimwear.
Unfortunately, swimwear has been synonymous with bikinis and skin-baring one-piece swimsuits for a long time, meaning anyone who wants a little extra coverage has been forced to resort to layers that aren’t suitable for swimming, or has just given up and resigned themselves to a life out of the water.
But no more! A plethora of brands, from independents to big names, have made their way into the modest swimwear space. From burkini-style pieces to full coverage swimsuits to cover-ups, there’s something for everyone on the market now, whatever parts of your body you’re looking to cover up.
8 of the best modest swimwear brands for your water wardrobe:
Imaan Active
Muslim-owned brand Imaan Active has just ventured into swimwear and its range is GOOD. Not only is it functional, it also looks smart and stylish. There’s something for everyone, whatever your modesty needs, from swim turbans and hijab wraps to swimsuits and robes.
I love the Sara three-piece swimsuit in teal (available in S to XL). It consists of a bodysuit with a high neck and a front zipper, which makes it easier to peel off when it’s wet after a swim. The chest padding is removable, if you want less definition in the area, or are just more comfortable without any restrictions or extra fabric. Best of all, it comes with a removable wrap skirt, which you can wear in the water for a bit of extra coverage, or pop on after you’re on dry land.
The brand also has a matching cover-up (available in two sizes), which is a full-length, long-sleeved, loose fit robe, for those who want a little more from their modest outfits. Throw on over your swimwear when you’re lounging about pool or beachside, add a pair of sunglasses and you’ll look like a movie star.
Lanuuk
I’m a big fan of Lanuuk’s swimwear, and have owned the Serena swim dress and leggings for a while, wearing them for pool-based aerobic classes that require a lot of movement. They’ve proved hardy and functional, and the little peplum skirt has the modesty I particularly want around my stomach, hips and backside.
Lanuuk’s new Sunset Collection currently has my heart, in particular the Diana swim dress and leggings in a stunning coral (available in XXS to XXL). All the items in the collection are made from a 100% regenerated nylon fibre made from consumer waste such as fishing nets. The Diana, built around a regular swimsuit, has a ruched layer at the front that I love because it means more coverage as well as a design that looks beautiful. It works well as a functional swim piece, but to be honest, I’d be happy just showing it off poolside.
Lyra
For when I’m looking for something to wear on the beach or by the pool, but that doesn’t involve me having to get into the water, I turn to Lyra Swim’s Alayna swimsuit (available in XS to XXXL), which I own in navy. With a regular swimsuit as the base, it has a thigh-length overlayer, a high neck and a belt design, which I find incredibly flattering, especially with the slightly flared skirt.
I pair it with the black leggings from the brand, and the swimsuit comes with a turban for anyone who wants a head covering. For actual swimming, this may prove a little unwieldy because of the floaty fabric and length of the skirt, but it’s the perfect poolside outfit.
Speedo
Yes, the name Speedo may conjure up images of tiny bikini bottoms and skimpy tops, but the brand knows what it’s doing when it comes to swimwear, and has you covered if you’re after modest pieces.
If you’re not after a full coverage outfit and want something just for your top half, then Speedo’s printed long sleeve swim top (available in XXS to XXL) should be your first port of call. As well as being something you can throw on over your swimsuit or bikini, the top is made in part from recycled plastic bottles, perfect if you’re looking for something sustainable.
Adidas
Adidas’ long sleeve-swim top (in sizes 2 to 26) is long-sleeved and loose fit, although not so loose as to prove unwieldy in the water. It’s also got removable padding, and inner buttons at the hip so you can attach it to the matching pants (which are slightly looser fit than a legging), as well as thumb holes on the arms, giving you extra security and peace of mind.
(This top does run small, so make sure to go one size up.)
Nike
If a pop of colour is what you’re after, try the Nike victory logo full-coverage swim tunic in bright (and I mean bright) pink (available in XS to 2XL). Full sleeved and thigh-length, it’s a loose fit, but sturdy enough to cut through the water in.
Matching leggings and a hijab are available, and whether you’re swimming or lounging, this is one suit that will stand out. If you like the design but want something a bit more subtle, it’s also available in black.
Arket
The Arket lyocell linen cover-up (in sizes XS to L) is ideal if you want to look effortless, but (like me) haven’t quite worked out how to do so. It’s short sleeved and has side slits, so it’s not for anyone looking for pieces that cover the arms and legs completely, but it’s loose kaftan-style fit is so comfortable, and it’s loose enough to work on top of a full coverage swimsuit without you feeling like you’re wearing too many layers.
River Island
Cover-ups and cute beach wear is an essential for summer, and I love River Island’s pink floral print kimono (in sizes 6 to 18) as a modest and affordable option.
Loose-fitting and long-sleeved, it’s great to throw on over a swimming costume. The pale pink and red print is stunning, and means the piece can also work in places other than poolside, especially when paired with the matching loose-fit trousers: the co-ord of dreams.
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