Buying modest swimwear isn't quite as simple as choosing your clothing size and favourite colour.

While many burkinis can look similar online, the difference between a swimsuit you'll love wearing and one you'll never wear again often comes down to small design details that aren't always obvious from photographs.

After helping hundreds of Muslim women choose modest swimwear over the years, we've found that many of the questions customers ask after purchasing a burkini are actually the things they wish they'd known before buying.

This guide will help you understand what to look for when choosing modest swimwear so you can find something that's comfortable, practical and suited to the way you plan to use it.

1. Look for Tunic Fasteners

One of the most useful features to look for when choosing a burkini is whether the tunic can be fastened to the trousers or leggings.

Without a fastener, the tunic can float upwards once you're in the water. This can become frustrating, particularly if you're swimming actively, as you may find yourself constantly pulling the top back down.

Many burkinis include discreet elastic clips or fasteners that attach the tunic to the bottoms, helping to keep the top securely in place while you swim.

It's a small design detail, but one you'll appreciate every time you get into the water.

However, you don't necessarily need fasteners for every type of water activity. If you're not a regular swimmer and primarily want a burkini for light beach activity, relaxing by the pool or visiting a waterpark, a style without fasteners may be perfectly practical.

Think about how you'll actually be using your swimwear before deciding which features matter most to you.

2. Decide Between Fitted Leggings and Loose-Fit Swim Trousers

Another important choice when buying modest swimwear is the style of the bottoms.

Some burkinis come with fitted swim leggings, while others have loose-fit swim trousers, sometimes finished with ankle cuffs.

Fitted swim leggings are usually made from stretchy performance fabrics such as Lycra or spandex. They are lightweight, comfortable and allow plenty of freedom of movement, making them particularly suitable if you enjoy swimming laps or being active in the water.

However, some women don't feel that fitted leggings provide the level of modesty they personally prefer.

In that case, loose-fit swim trousers may be a better option.

Loose trousers provide a more relaxed silhouette and additional coverage, and many women prefer them for beach holidays, resort swimming and more casual water activities.

Neither option is necessarily better. It ultimately comes down to your personal preference, your level of activity and the type of coverage you feel most comfortable wearing.

3. Choose Quality Swim Fabric

The fabric used to make your swimwear can make a significant difference to how comfortable it feels, particularly if you're wearing it for several hours at a time.

Quality modest swimwear should ideally be made from fabric that is:

• Lightweight – so it doesn't feel unnecessarily heavy in or out of the water
• Quick-drying – particularly useful when moving between swimming and other activities
• Breathable – to help you stay comfortable when you're not in the water
• Stretchy – allowing you to move comfortably while swimming and participating in other activities
• Comfortable for extended wear – particularly important during long beach or resort days

Some premium swimwear may also offer features such as chlorine resistance or UV protection, which can be useful if you swim frequently or spend a lot of time outdoors.

Always check the product specifications rather than assuming that every burkini will have the same fabric properties.

4. Check Whether a Swim Hijab Is Included

One common assumption when shopping for a burkini is that every set automatically includes a matching swim hijab. That's not always the case.

Different burkinis can have very different hijab designs.

Some sets include a separate swim hijab made from snug, stretchy fabric that can easily be pulled on and removed when needed.

Others come with a turban-style swim cap, while some swim tunics have an attached hood-style hijab that is part of the tunic rather than a separate piece.

This distinction is important because your preferred level of coverage may depend on the design.

Before purchasing, check exactly what is included in the set and whether the head covering is:

• Separate or attached
• A full swim hijab or turban-style cap
• Designed to remain secure during swimming
• Suitable for the level of coverage you personally prefer

Taking a few moments to check these details can help you avoid buying a swimsuit that doesn't meet your needs.

5. Think About How You'll Actually Use Your Burkini

The best modest swimwear for you will depend largely on where and how you plan to wear it.

For example, if you're mainly visiting hotel pools or waterparks with your family, you may prioritise comfort, freedom of movement and a design that is easy to get on and off.

If you're spending long days at the beach, you may prefer loose-fit trousers and lightweight fabrics that remain comfortable even after several hours.

If you're an active swimmer, you may prefer a streamlined design with fitted leggings and a tunic fastener to keep everything securely in place.

And if you're mainly looking for modest swimwear for relaxing by the pool, walking along the beach or enjoying a family holiday, you may have different priorities altogether.

There isn't one perfect burkini for everyone.

The key is to choose a design based on what you'll actually be doing in it.

6. Consider Fit and Comfort

As with any type of clothing, getting the right size is important, but modest swimwear can require a little more consideration because of the way the fabric behaves in water.

A burkini should allow you to move comfortably without feeling excessively tight or restrictive.

At the same time, an overly loose fit may create more movement in the water than you want.

Always check the individual product's size guide and measurements rather than relying solely on your usual clothing size, as sizing can vary between manufacturers and styles.

Pay particular attention to the fit around the shoulders, arms and hips, and make sure you can comfortably raise your arms and move your legs before entering the water.

Caring for Your Modest Swimwear

A quality burkini can last through many holidays and swimming trips when properly cared for.

To help keep your modest swimwear looking and feeling its best:

• Rinse it with clean water after swimming, particularly after exposure to chlorine or salt water.
• Wash according to the care instructions provided with the garment.
• Avoid wringing or twisting the fabric, which can put unnecessary stress on the material.
• Allow it to air dry naturally rather than using high heat unless the care instructions specifically allow it.
• Make sure it is completely dry before storing it to prevent unpleasant odours and help protect the fabric.

Proper care is particularly important if you swim regularly or wear your burkini throughout long holidays.

The best modest swimwear isn't simply the one with the nicest colour or most attractive print. It's the one you'll actually feel comfortable and confident wearing every time you head to the pool, beach or waterpark.

Before buying a burkini, think about:

How active will I be?
This can help you decide between fitted leggings and loose-fit trousers.

Do I want the tunic secured while swimming?
If so, look for a style with tunic fasteners.

What level of head and body coverage am I comfortable with?
Check whether the swim hijab is separate, attached or a turban-style cap.

Where will I be wearing it?
Your needs may be different for swimming laps, visiting a waterpark or spending a relaxed day at a resort.

How often will I use it?
If you're likely to swim frequently, investing in good-quality fabric and construction becomes even more important.

By understanding the differences between fabrics, trouser styles, head coverings and practical design features, you can choose modest swimwear that works for your lifestyle rather than becoming something you constantly need to adjust.

Whether you're planning a family holiday, relaxing at a resort or spending a day at the beach, the right burkini allows you to focus less on your swimwear and more on enjoying the moment.

Where to Find Modest Swimwear in Nigeria

At Hadiya Souq, we carefully curate modest swimwear and burkinis for Muslim women, selecting styles that balance coverage, comfort and practicality.

Whether you're looking for a 3-piece burkini, modest swimsuit, swim hijab or full-coverage swimwear, explore our collection to find a style that suits your needs.

Shop modest swimwear at Hadiya Souq today.