Burqini: Muslim women's reply to bikini

It's not itsy-bitsy or teenie- weenie but the Burqini may prove to be just as popular as its polka-dotted predecessor.

The modest bathing costume is designed for water-going Muslim women who, because of religious values, cannot show more than their face, hands and feet in public.



A cross between a burqa and a bikini, the polyester suit is made up of pants and a long- sleeved thigh or knee-length A-line top with head covering. It is water-repellent, UV-resistant and comes with Arab designs.

Its Australian designer, Aheda Zanetti, has been swamped with thousands of inquiries about the product from Europe, Britain, the United States, Asia and the Middle East. Zanetti said she started producing the Burqini as Muslim women were missing out on sports because of their dress code.

There's a video here.