What is a Burkini?

Burkini – A Freedom Suit

Designed to be a full coverage swimwear to becoming a power suit that empowered women ways to ride the waves without fear.

The "Burkini" Story

“It was my first time swimming in public and it was absolutely beautiful. I remember the feeling so clearly. I felt freedom, I felt empowerment, I felt like I owned the pool. I walked to the end of that pool with my shoulders back.

Diving into water is one of the best feelings in the world.” – Aheda Zanetti, The Guardian

In 2004, when Aheda Zanetti, a Lebanese-born Australian fashion designer created the burkini, its purpose was to increase participation of women to enjoy sports and beach culture, without compromising on their modesty or choice of clothing.

One day as Zanetti watched her niece’s netball match, she noticed how seemingly inappropriate her niece looked in her a skivvy, tracksuit pants, and her hijab - totally unsuitable for any type of sport. This led her to search for sportswear for Muslim girls, which was futile. Burkini was her answer to filling the gaps of the popular fashion industry.

Though it started with the thought of providing modest sport and swimwear for Muslim women, Burkini has now moved to become one of the most popular swimwear option for women around the globe.

What is a Burkini?

A burkini is a play on two words — burqa, which is a body and head covering garment worn by Islamic women in public, and bikini. It is swimsuit that covers the body leaving the face, hands and feet uncovered. The association with ‘bikini’ does not extend further than that it is both pieces of clothing in which you can swim.

Burkini was essentially designed for Muslim women, who choose to wear a head cover like the hijab, could participate in water activities and other sports. But women of all colors and race love it for the way it helps express themselves, be themselves and most importantly enjoy their time doing what they love. Nothing feels more empowering when you are allowed to be yourself while you perform your best.

Choose Your Burkini Style

Burkinis come in various styles, designs and prints. You can choose to go floral or keep it classy. There is a range of accessories that come with the suits like fitted chic swim turban and detachable skirts to complete your look. There are many fashion houses that have started investing in designing the new beachwear but only few keep the style notch high. For example, LYRA Swim one of the best known brands for Burkinis is celebrated for their stunning designs that compliment your curves in a modest way. We have an overwhelming collection that women are wearing all over the world.

With elegant neutrals, and the occasional inset print or muted hue, Lyra Swim gives you many options to choose from. It’s known for its classic piped detailing and clever design details that subtly offer coverage, like sleek turtlenecks and detachable skirts.

The Classic Pastel

Check out the classic pastel shades that helps you merge well into the oceans.

SOFIA - LAVENDER	SOFIA - PASTEL BLUE

The Bold

Make a statement with this bold pallet that fits your curve in the right way. 

SOFIA - GOLD	SOFIA - BLACK

Feminine Floral

You can never go with these subtle floral prints that make great on any sunny day.

SOFIA - PALM	SOFIA - LEAF

LYRA burkini swimsuits are made using quick drying, chlorine resistant, high quality swimwear fabric. With UPF 50+ protection against UV rays, ideal for use at the pool or beach. With elegant cuts and classic colour combinations, LYRA offers a versatile swimwear collection designed to suit a range of body types and style preferences.