What are burkinis?

Burkinis cover the head, torso and limbs, much like a wetsuit with a hood

• Around 10 years ago an Australian woman of Lebanese origin created a swimsuit for Muslim women designed to permit them to keep their bodies covered while working as lifeguards on Australian beaches

• The word “bukini ” comes from the combination of bikini and burqa, a full-body covering with only a mesh screen for the eyes

• The body is covered except face, hands and feet

• The swimsuit is worn in two pieces, the top piece long enough to cover posterior

Source: AP, Photo: Abaca Press TNS A woman wearing a burkini takes a dip in south of France