Photo: Lyra
Lyra
While dressing conservatively might seem at odds with some of the latest fashion trends (we're looking at you crop tops), more covered looks are becoming increasingly popular and not just among followers of faith. In fact, a quick search of modest fashion on Google produces around 149m results, while Pinterest UK reports that searches for the term are up 500 per cent since the beginning of 2019.
While retailers are starting to recognise the demand for fashion-forward modestwear, it seems as though very little attention is paid to swimwear. The shapeless black burkinis that currently dominate the category do not represent the changing tastes of modest women.
But the good news is there are a few brands out there who have got you covered—literally. Even better, you don’t have to choose between your personal style and your lifestyle.
Cover
When former investment banker Lisa Moore became a mother, she found herself chasing her son around outside in the scorching Texas sun. Feeling frustrated by the limited sun-protective swimwear options available for adults, she launched Cover, which makes suits from a fabric with UFP50+ protection. Although the brand wasn’t initially designed with modest dressers in mind, thanks to Halima Aden, who sported not one but two of Cover’s head-to-toe looks in the 2019 Sports Illustrated Swim Issue, the brand has become increasingly popular among those looking for more conservative options. We love the Long-Sleeved Swimsuit which can be worn on its own or with the brand's Swim Leggings or Circle Skirt.
Cover is available online at coverswim.com
Lanuuk
Co-founded by Ayesha Mahomed and Katleya Nielsen in 2018, Lanuuk (pronounced la-nouk), was created over a shared passion to create full coverage swimwear that does not compromise on femininity, style, quality or comfort. With elegant cuts and classic colour combinations, the brand’s versatile swimwear collection is designed to suit a range of body types and style preferences. Utilizing only the best, tried and tested materials, their products are made from an ultra-high quality mix of nylon and spandex offering UPF50+ sun protection whilst maintaining a lightweight feel.
Lanuuk is available online at lanuuk.com
Related article: Eight Best Places To Shop For Modest Fashion
Aaila
Aaila Swimwear is Singapore’s newest modest swimwear brand. Founded by Michelle Yao, the label is a mission to redefine modest wear. The debut collection is comprised of six original swimwear styles that have been thoughtfully designed in Singapore, and manufactured at a small scale in Indonesia. Each piece has been designed for a semi-loose fit and features a dose of colour, from forest green to vibrant coral, and prints with tropical leaf motifs and Asian-inspired rattan pattern.
Aaila Swimwear is currently available for purchase online at aailaswimwear.com.
Lyra
As someone who dressed modestly, and also loved the outdoors, swimming and keeping fit, intertwined with a keen eye for fashion, Ikram Zein struggled to find swimwear that suited her lifestyle. So she decided to design her own. Lyra’s swimsuits come in elegant neutrals, with the occasional inset print or muted hue. Its signatures are piped detailing and clever design details that subtly offer coverage, like sleek turtlenecks and detachable skirts.
Lyra is available online at lyraswimwear.com
Related article: Zalora’s New Modest Wear Collections Are Perfect For Hari Raya
Nike Victory Swim Collection
Nike’s new Victory Swim Collection, which includes the Nike Victory Full-Coverage Swimsuit, along with swim separate options — the Nike Victory Swim Hijab, the Nike Victory Swim Tunic Top and the Nike Victory Swim Leggings — brings performance innovation to modest swimwear. Its sleek, innovative silhouette provide a game-changing option for female athletes seeking full coverage and full range of motion in the water. Inspired by the passionate responses to the Nike Pro Hijab and the striking gap in apparel for water sports — specifically, a lack of options for female athletes who don’t want to choose between modesty and movement with comfort and confidence, the entire collection is lightweight, breathable and quick-drying. The head-to-toe UPF 40+ rating also offers additional sun protection.
The Nike Victory Swim Collection is available February 1 on nike.com and at select retailers globally.
Munamer
When Chiara Taffarello initially decided to launch Munamer her focus was clear: She wanted to celebrate women whose traditions required them to cover up more than those in Western countries. She wanted to give them the opportunity to enjoy swimming, and playing with their children on the beach, while still being on trend, elegant, feminine, comfortable and, above all, modest. The brand’s burkinis generally feature heritage block prints and wrap silhouettes, all of which are manufactured in Italy and marketed as luxury modest swimwear.
Munamer is available online at munamer.com
Related article: 10 Looks From The Fall/Winter 2019 Shows That Are Perfect For Modest Dressers