Sports Illustrated Makes History By Featuring A Model Wearing A Burkini And Hijab

Eventually, the swimwear ‘rules’ were relaxed, as the impracticality of swimming in heavy clothing was accepted. Swimwear became smaller and more streamlined until we arrived at where we are today; the bikini has become the norm.

The same can’t be said of all cultures though. Just because our ‘morality’ has changed recently, it doesn’t mean that others have to follow. Muslim women especially can feel uncomfortable when baring skin at the beach and have been under-represented when it comes to swimwear options. To address this, the ‘burkini’ was invented in 2016 and was designed to cover the whole body except the face, hands and feet while being light enough for swimming