Modest Swimwear and Burkini Sizing

To size a burkini, treat it as separate pieces and measure each one on its own: the tunic by chest and length, the leggings by waist, hips and inseam, and the hood by head fit. Most sizing problems start when a store gives one size label to a full-coverage set without explaining what each piece does.

This guide shows store owners how to build a clear modest swimwear size chart. It is part of our wider guide to selling African and modest fashion online, which covers fit questions for covered styles.

Why is burkini sizing different from regular swimwear?

Regular swimwear is small and stretchy, so a size is mostly about the body. A burkini covers much more of the body and has to move in water, so fit and ease both matter.

Three things make it harder:

• Several pieces: a set often has a tunic, leggings and a head covering.
• Loose and fitted zones: the tunic may be relaxed while the leggings are close.
• Fabric in water: fabric behaves differently when wet, which can change how a garment hangs.

Because of this, a single "S, M, L" label is often not enough on its own.

How do you build a size chart for a burkini?

Build one chart per piece, and show them side by side on the product page. The sizing method in size recommendation for modest fashion stores uses the same approach for covered garments.

Step 1: Chart the tunic

Use chest, hip and length. Chest sets the main fit, while hip tells the shopper whether the tunic will sit smoothly over the leggings. Give length from the high point of the shoulder or neck to the hem.

Step 2: Chart the leggings

Use waist, hips and inseam. Leggings should match the shopper's height, so add a short height guide beside the inseam.

Step 3: Chart the hood or cap

Use a head circumference and describe how it closes, such as a drawstring, a stretch band or a tie. A head covering that is too tight is uncomfortable, and one that is too loose can slip.

Step 4: Link the pieces

Say clearly whether each piece comes in the same size label or whether a shopper can mix sizes. If a shopper is between sizes for the tunic and the leggings, mixing may help.

Which measurements should shoppers take?

Ask for body measurements, not garment measurements, and give a short instruction for each.

1. Chest: around the fullest part of the chest, with the tape level.
2. Waist: around the narrowest part of the torso.
3. Hips: around the fullest part of the hips.
4. Inseam: from the crotch to the ankle bone.
5. Height: standing, without shoes.

For a lighter approach to full-coverage sizing, see how gele and headwrap sizing handles head fit for shoppers who cannot measure alone.

What fit notes help shoppers choose?

A short note on each product page can prevent a wrong order. Be honest about how a piece fits.

Useful lines include:

• "Tunic is relaxed through the body and falls below the hip."
• "Leggings are close fitting and stretch with movement."
• "Hood has an adjustable tie."
• "If between sizes, size up for the tunic and keep your usual size for the leggings."

Also say if the fabric has a lining or built-in support. Shoppers should know before they buy.

Can an online size tool help with modest swimwear?

It can help with the body-based part. ZeDaq.ai's "Find my size" works from one photo plus height and matches the result to the size chart you enter, with one chart per garment type, including tops, outerwear, dresses and bottoms. You would need to decide which chart suits each piece.

It does not replace clear fit notes, and it is worth testing on your own products first. Our guide to adding virtual try-on to Shopify walks through setup.

How do you test a burkini sample before selling it?

Test every sample in the conditions a customer will use. A set that looks right in a studio can behave very differently in a pool or the sea.

Run this simple check:

1. Wear the full set and walk, sit and raise your arms.
2. Get it wet and see how the tunic floats and how the leggings cling.
3. Check the hood for slipping when you swim or dive.
4. Dry and wash it, then check for shrinking or color change.

Write down what you find and use it in your fit notes. Honest notes, such as "the tunic floats a little in water", help shoppers trust the rest of the page.

What should you do about returns?

Hygiene rules often limit returns on swimwear, so shoppers need good sizing information before purchase. Check your own return policy and state it clearly on the product page.

If you are building a returns policy, base it on the rules for your country and link to the official page for them.

FAQs

Should a burkini be loose or fitted?

Most are designed with a looser top and closer leggings, but styles vary. State the intended fit on the product page so shoppers know what to expect.

How do I size a burkini for a child?

Use the child's height and chest measurement, and leave room for growth only if you say so. Give a separate chart for children's sizes.

What if a shopper wears a headscarf under the hood?

Mention in your fit notes whether the hood has room for one. Add the head circumference so shoppers can check.

Should I list chlorine or salt-water care?

Yes, give care guidance from your fabric supplier. It helps shoppers keep the set in good condition.