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

if you are splashing about, rash vest (bikini top underneath so you can change afterwards, they don't ride up unless they are 10 sizes too big). Board shorts, nothing beneath - you can get them knee length or longer if you are skinny/look hard. Keeps the sun off too.

rinse in fresh water afterwards, then the boardies are fine and no need to change.

rash vest is too hot to sit on the beach, switch to a tshirt.

boardies are too flappy for serious swimming.

I just wear a swimsuit with a slightly longer leg, you can get them dead cheap from Sports Direct, but it sounds like that might be too revealing for you to be comfy. Like this: www.sportsdirect.com/slazenger-boyleg-legsuit-ladies-354743?colcode=35474303

The first thing you linked is not quite to my taste, mainly because I agree I would feel that more people would be looking at me as it's more unusual. But having said that, realistically it won't be more than a few curious looks, and if you feel comfortable and like it, then it's nobody else's business. Strongly support your right to wear whatever you like and feel comfortable in!

I lived in Turkey for many years where I saw a lot of the modest type swimwear you posted. The problem is that it is generally in nasty, cheap fabric. Not designed for water. Yours is 80% polyester. There is no way I would spend my holiday covered in wet, dark polyester.
Most swimwear (modern, soft and comfortable) is 80% polyamide/20% elastane. Although regular swimmers in chlorine might opt for more nylon in the suits to hold up to the chemicals better.
I suggest you look for rash guards and swim shorts/swim skirts in modern fabrics online.
High neck tankinis are also available this year, which you could wear with shorts.
For example this from Moontide:

Thanks Diana.

I think some pro swimsuits are made of a Polyester / Lycra composite actually. It's more durable and resists chlorine better apparently. For example TYR Durafast range is 94% Polyester 6% Lycra. Speedo Endurance range is a Polyester / PBT composite. So I don't necessarily think the one I've just bought is made of 'cheap and nasty' fabric, though I may be wrong - I guess I'll find out when it arrives!

Thanks for your suggestions too. I really like the high neck tankini top but would prefer something to cover shoulders and arms really.

Yes, hopefully your fabric is fine. I was being very general about the modest style suits in stores in Turkey 5 years ago. I really felt the women lacked choice and comfort (those opted for modest suits that is).
Let us know how it works.

Thanks Diana - will definitely update once it arrives!