Style & Beauty
Modest swimwear
LadyPriggsbottom · 27/01/2016 15:58
I have been told it would look downright weird if I wore modest swimwear (of the variety normally worn for religious reasons) on holiday.
I am quite a modest dresser and have always been uncomfortable in swimwear. Not because I think I look bad or hate my body or anything - I just don't like boobs, bum, legs, arms all out. I always feel like I'm going to accidentally flash someone (I'm not very discreet and can be a little clumsy that way - bfing was always tricky)! Also, I have very fair skin with loads of moles so would like to cover that up.
I'm a bit miffed that I have spoken to people (male and female) and both have said it would look really weird and I shouldn't do it. Why can't I choose to cover up on the beach? Why is it weird?
Fwiw I was thinking something like this:
www.amazon.co.uk/gp/aw/d/B0144BKCTY/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?qid=1453910092&sr=8-3&pi=SY200_QL40&keywords=modest%20swimwear&dpPl=1&dpID=31ZnevzcH7L&ref=plSrch&tag=mumsnet&ascsubtag=mnforum-21
Whatdoidohelp · 27/01/2016 16:03
I think wearing that would draw more attention to yourself than if you were in "normal" swimwear. Maybe the exception to his would be if you were in the Middle East but elsewhere there will be stares and possibly questions from children
Have you looked at boy shorts style bottoms and a tankini top? Or a low leg cut swimsuit with a skirt detail over the bum?
RaisingSteam · 27/01/2016 16:11
Have you googled for rash vest or legsuit? They are a bit more sporty looking. Or sarongs/kaftans/beach dresses?
Obviously you can wear what you want but I might feel that wearing unusual modesty swimwear would make me more conspicuous than normal swimwear i.e. have the reverse effect!
chantico · 27/01/2016 16:14
I don't think skirted swimsuits are particularly unusual (IME especially in resorts which attract lots of German tourists, so I guess they're more available there).
The leggings bit on the one you've linked isn't so common, so might make you more conspicuous than you intend.
Another type of swimwear with lots of coverage that I've seen a lot is rash vest with board shorts.
LadyPriggsbottom · 27/01/2016 16:14
Haha love that idea LimitedSedition!
Thanks nothingwitty.
Whatdoidohelp, I've got a legsuit for swimming here but it's a sporty one for swimming rather than lounging on the beach. It's not actually very flattering on me as I have a wee tum post pregnancy (and pre-pregnancy if I'm honest)! The skirt might help, though that still leave my whole (moley) arms and shoulders exposed which wouldn't be my ideal.
Cantseetheforest · 27/01/2016 16:14
OP, I used to wear something like that, just with shorts cut above the knee. I can't be bothered to shave (didn't have to) and worry about sunburns (not a problem). True, I got a few looks here and there, but nobody was pointing and laughing.
I had to buy a new suit and went for a sporty one with longer legs (boy shorts style) so much more "revealing" but I would be happy wearing another version of tops and shorts again, especially in a sunny country.
Wear what you want!!
Katarzyna79 · 27/01/2016 16:15
im muslim id never wear a burkini only way id go swimming was a private pool or women only, including femalestaff only near pool and security.
i think id wear surf suit its modest keeps u warm too,and look so cool.
one u linked is not hideous at all looks like modern day asian suit tunic style top slim troisers, its the same material as those surf suits or thinner likeadies swimsuit?
I think u should wear what u feel comfy in but be prepared for stares its not illegal though. I kno some girls wear tshirts and leggings for swimming.
aliasjoey · 27/01/2016 16:17
I like the idea. I'm not religious but hate showing everything. I've got a short swimdress, but it always rides up, if yours ties to the leggings that's better?
Of course, most people don't care or notice if you're already in the water; and outside of the pool half the people can't see without their glasses or contacts... 
but still it would be good to have more modest options. Yours is quite extreme, but if it makes you happy then go for it.
LadyPriggsbottom · 27/01/2016 16:41
Thanks - I like the rash vest / board short idea too. Will have a hunt for some nice ones.
I have bought the suit I linked to. I might not wear both the leggings and top together - will try them on and see.
Definitely want to try out Limited's suggestion too!
Thanks for comments!
BarbieBrightSide · 27/01/2016 17:06
I had one of these for a trip to a water park last year and felt quite secure in it (and wasn't the only one wearing one, despite initially feeling a bit self conscious)
StDogolphin Swim Dresses
SqueegyBeckinheim · 27/01/2016 17:14
I generally wear mid thigh length swimming shorts, the tight kind not the boys baggy ones, and either a rash vest or a tankini top. If you're wearing a rash vest don't forget a bikini top to go underneath as they can rise up in the water.
I go to Florida quite often to visit family, and I've noticed more and more women over there in swimwear that covers up. I don't know if this is for modesty or preventation of skin cancer, but there definitely seems to be a trend away from itsy bitsy teeny weeny bikinis.
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