It's one of the most-asked questions before a first modest swim: what do I actually wear under a burkini? The good news is the answer is usually "very little" — a well-made burkini is designed to be worn on its own. But a few smart choices make the difference between comfortable and self-conscious. Here's the simple version.
1. The short answer
Most quality burkinis are fully lined and self-contained, so you wear them like any swimsuit — directly on the skin. You don't need a separate outfit underneath. What you do want to get right is support, the bottom layer, and your head covering.
2. Do you need a bra under a burkini?
Usually not. Better burkinis include a built-in shelf bra or removable padded cups for shape and coverage. If you prefer more support, wear a swim-specific bralette made from the same quick-dry fabric — never a regular cotton or padded bra, which soaks up water, goes see-through, and takes hours to dry.
3. The bottom layer
The burkini's own pants or leggings are the bottom layer — nothing else is required. If you want extra security, wear swim briefs or swim shorts made for water. Avoid regular cotton underwear: it waterlogs, chafes, and can show through when wet.
4. Your swim hijab or cap
For hair coverage in the water, a dedicated swim hijab or swim cap in quick-dry fabric is the move. It stays put when you dive, dries fast, and won't turn heavy like a cotton scarf. Match it to your burkini for a finished look, or go tonal.
5. What NOT to wear under a burkini
- Cotton anything — underwear, bras, or t-shirts. Cotton holds water, sags, and can go transparent.
- Regular padded bras — the padding stays soggy for hours.
- Shapewear — it isn't swim-safe and restricts movement in water.
6. Tall, petite, or in between
If coverage is your priority or you're taller, choosing the right size matters more than adding layers — a well-fitted burkini covers on its own. See our Burkini Sizing & Fit Guide to dial it in.
Quick checklist
- Burkini worn on the skin — it's self-contained.
- Built-in support, or add a swim bralette if you want more.
- Swim hijab or cap for hair coverage.
- No cotton, no regular bras, no shapewear.
Start with a fully-lined, full-coverage design: the Tropical Print Modest Burkini or the mix-and-match Solid Burkini Set. See all modest swimwear →
Modest fashion, refined. Shop Noora Wear.