On-the-go fashion for modest women: Burqinis and anti-cellulite pants

The fashion label SheMoves provides modest women with appropriate activewear that's also perfect for searing summer temperatures. We speak to its founder, Devayani Dayal.

The designer and founder of the label SheMoves, Devayani Dayal, centre, with two models each wearing examples of her conservative designs in Dubai. Jaime Puebla / The National

The summer is upon us, so what's your clothing advice for women wanting to exercise outside in these temperatures?

We have two brands called BlueFish sport and Element V - both have 30 to 50 SPF protection as they have nanotechnology-infused fabrics. They are very tactile and are designed to protect your skin from UV rays.

Do the garments feel heavier or look noticeably different from conventional sportswear?

The fabric Power Supplex is made for outdoors so it's a little bit thicker, and regular Supplex is just a patented mix of nylon and elastic so it feels like a regular yoga pant - so no tangible difference. It's just like a stretchy T-shirt material. The brands have four-way stretch and don't feel suffocating or restricting at all. There's also the Inner Chi Capri pant - endorsed by Kim Kardashian - which has compression technology, meaning the trousers have anti-cellulite properties. They won't take away the cellulite you already have, but will prevent any new build-up. They guarantee secure support, long-lasting moisture management and won't shrink, fade or pill.

Apart from those exercising in the sun, who else might the SheMoves ranges be suitable for?

The UV protective ranges make sense for people who are undergoing chemotherapy, for example, and can't be exposed to the sun. And for anyone going through laser hair removal, microdermabrasion or certain chemical peels - all of which make your skin very sensitive to the sun.

What are the most popular pieces?

Well, we have weave shorts, which some people wear for outdoor yoga and they can also be used for Bikram yoga as you will sweat. Also, in general, capri pants, trousers and tops like regular tanks. Cover-ups too, which are quite loosey goosey. You would wear them on top of a bikini or after you have done some vigorous exercise and don't want to show off your sweat patches. It keeps you cool. The silk-touch Tweedy blouse is a good example - it can be worn as a shirt or over a sports bra.

What about your modest wear and burqinis?

Yes, Islamic wear is something we do too and the modest wear has two separate ranges, one is the burqini - the actual swimwear with a headpiece attached to a tunic and underneath there are tights. Then you have the active wear range which is slightly different and a little bit more fashionable because you have a detachable headpiece. You may have a dark blue tunic and a light blue headpiece, for example. They have great sweat absorption capabilities and are popular with ladies who want to garden, go to the gym, walk around Safa Park or even participate in a boot camp. It makes all those things possible for women who want to cover up.

For more information, go to www.SheMovesOnline.com or call 04 454 8368

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