Modest swimwear

[LadyPriggsbottom]

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+swimwear&dpPl=1&dpID=31ZnevzcH7L&ref=plSrch

Just do it. Sod what anyone else thinks if it makes you feel confident enough to enjoy yourself.

I should probably add that I think people said it would be 'weird' because I am not from a background where modesty on the beach is the norm. They didn't say modest swimwear for religious reasons is 'weird'. Don't wish to offend.

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?

Thanks MsMims.

What you linked to looks nice on its own terms, it's hardly a burka. Who cares what stick-in-the-muds think. What's "normal" changes all the time.

That's very early 20th Century- get some HUGE sunglasses, and one of those headscarves and you've gone from 'weird' to retro.

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!

I never worry about dressing modestly. If I want to have lots on show, it's my business.

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.

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.

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!!

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.

Couldn't agree more toofunny.

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.

Thanks all for comments.

Katarzyna, I'm not sure about the fabric tbh. I assumed it would be a lightweight wetsuit / surf suit type fabric but I should probably look that up!

what about board shorts and a tankini top/rash vest

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!

I was going to suggest what Branleuse said, some long board shorts and a rash vest (they come in various sleeve lengths).

I think the one you have linked to is a bit twee but I really like the idea! Are there really swimming costumes with skirts? I have one very very very old costume that isnt high leg so I hang on to it but its on its last legs.

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

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.

I think the one you have linked to looks lovely but I would be too self conscious to wear it personally. Would love more longer leg swimwear and less clingy women's sportswear to choose from though.

Wax and Alias

YY, it's a shame there aren't more modest / covering options for women's swimwear.

Bollocks.. Its interesting and therefore infinitely more hot. Do it, its cool ( this from someone who used to go to the back, and in the sea in drainpipe jeans and black T-shirt and wore a Cardigan on the beach in Italy though so be warned!

Lanark