How to choose a good umbrella?

The rainy season is just around the corner, so it’s time to turn our attention to one of the most essential accessories. One that not only shields us from unpredictable weather, but also serves as a key element of our everyday style. Of course, we’re talking about the umbrella! On chilly, rainy days, it becomes not just a practical tool for staying dry, but also a unique accessory that highlights our personality and sense of style. Choosing the right model is not just about functionality—it’s also about elegance and sophistication. So let’s find out, how to choose a good umbrella, one that meets our needs and delights us with its distinctive look.

An umbrella as a status symbol?

Similarly to accessories such as scarves, the earliest mentions of umbrellas come from ancient civilizations like Egypt, Mesopotamia, and China. Back then, they were usually made from leaves or feathers and served a much more practical than fashionable purpose. Nevertheless, wealthy and influential people often used umbrellas as a symbol of their higher status. While the poor got soaked or sweltered in the heat, the aristocracy could move freely around the court. In Europe, umbrellas only became more popular during the Middle Ages. Over time, they grew more elegant—women carried umbrellas that matched their outfits, often made from delicate fabrics, lace, and adorned with decorative embroidery.

The umbrella craze reached its peak in the 19th century, when they became an essential part of women’s wardrobes. Umbrellas appeared in intricate shapes, with shafts made from elegant materials, and entire constructions were adorned with flowers, embroidery, and fringes. This atmosphere is reflected in the designs of Vivienne Westwood. However, with the arrival of the next century, umbrellas became more practical and less decorative. The invention of the folding umbrella made everyday use much easier. Soon, they ceased to be merely a luxury item and became accessible to a wider audience.

Today, umbrellas remain an important element of fashion. Designers create umbrellas in various shapes, colors, and patterns, adapting them to changing trends. Whether we use them for protection from rain or sun, umbrellas continue to be icons of style and elegance. Modern ones combine both functionality and fashionable looks, making them an integral part of our everyday outfits. Now that we know the history of this unique accessory, it’s worth considering how to choose a good umbrella and what to look for when making your selection. Here are a few tips on the subject.

How to choose a good umbrella? – functionality comes first

Before we focus on the fashion aspect, let’s consider which features of an umbrella are crucial in terms of its functionality. First and foremost, its primary purpose is to protect against rain. When choosing an umbrella, we should therefore pay attention to its ability to effectively shield us from unpredictable weather. This means that the umbrella should be made from high-quality materials that are waterproof and provide adequate protection against heavy rain. The right surface area is also important, as it should be wide enough to protect both ourselves and our belongings.

Another important aspect is user comfort. Our umbrella should be practical and easy to carry. That’s why it’s worth paying attention to its weight and size. A lightweight umbrella will be more convenient to carry and store in a handbag or backpack. Foldable models, on the other hand, are often more practical because they can be easily tucked away when not needed. Additionally, a comfortable handle and ergonomic design are key for user comfort. Ultimately, before we focus on the umbrella’s appearance, it’s worth making sure it fulfills its basic functions. Once we’re confident that the umbrella provides the necessary protection and is comfortable to use, we can turn our attention to its fashion aspect.

Follow the trends

In fashion, the umbrella is an important part of our wardrobe, serving both a practical function and making a bold style statement. When choosing one, it’s worth taking a look at current fashion trends. As the seasons change, so do color preferences and patterns. Just like the tie trend, the umbrella trend is constantly evolving, so it’s a good idea to stay up to date with what’s currently in vogue.

One of the timeless classics that never goes out of style is the black umbrella. It’s a safe choice that matches virtually any outfit and always looks elegant, regardless of current trends. However, when choosing an umbrella, it’s also worth considering how to express your individual style. If you’re feeling bold, consider an umbrella in pastel shades, which will add a touch of softness and subtle charm to your look. Opt for a model with an interesting print or delicate embellishments.

Remember, fashion is not just an obligation, but also a pleasure. Asking yourself the question: how to choose a good umbrella can be an opportunity to express yourself and highlight your style. Whether you opt for something classic or are looking for something more extravagant, an umbrella is a perfect accessory that not only protects you from the rain but also adds elegance and a unique touch to your outfit. You can also match your umbrella to your outfit or your favorite evening bag.

What should you consider when choosing an umbrella? – materials and construction

Choosing an umbrella is much more than just picking a color or pattern. The materials it’s made from and its construction play a crucial role in both the functionality and durability of this accessory. When it comes time to select an umbrella, there are several key factors worth considering to ensure you’re satisfied with your purchase.

• Rain cover material – The most commonly used material is polyester, which is waterproof and provides effective protection against rain. However, some umbrellas also use fabrics such as nylon or Teflon, which offer additional durability and resistance to weather conditions.
• Frame construction – When choosing an umbrella, pay attention to the frame construction, which should be both stable and flexible. Umbrellas with a metal frame are usually more durable than those with a plastic frame, but they can be heavier. Folding umbrellas often feature a folding system made of carbon fiber or fiberglass, making them lightweight and durable.
• Number of panels and span – Another important aspect is the number of panels and the span of the umbrella. Umbrellas with more panels are usually more stable, as they distribute wind force more effectively. The span of the umbrella should be sufficient to provide effective protection from the rain. It’s worth choosing an umbrella with the right dimensions to avoid getting wet during rainfall.
• Opening and closing system – It’s also important to consider the umbrella’s opening and closing mechanism. A high-quality umbrella should be easy to open and close, while remaining stable during use. Automatic opening systems, such as push-button mechanisms, can make using the umbrella even more convenient.

Foldable or fixed?

When choosing an umbrella, one of the key dilemmas is deciding between a folding or a stick umbrella. The final choice between a folding and a stick umbrella depends on your personal preferences and needs. If practicality matters to you, especially when traveling, a folding umbrella is the more convenient option. On the other hand, if you’re looking for an elegant accessory to complement your style, a stick umbrella might be the perfect choice. Remember, regardless of your choice, both folding and stick umbrellas not only protect you from the rain but also offer a chance to express your individual style.

Folding models are popular for their compact design. They’re easy to tuck into a handbag, backpack, or luggage, making them an ideal choice for people on the go. Folding umbrellas are also generally smaller and lighter, which makes them practical and convenient for everyday use. If you travel frequently or value practicality, a folding umbrella could be an excellent choice.

Permanent umbrellas, on the other hand, are distinguished by their sturdy construction, which does not fold into parts. They are usually larger than folding umbrellas and provide more comprehensive protection from rain or sun. They are the choice of those who value durability and stability. Umbrellas from luxury brands, such as Valentino, also serve as an elegant accessory to any outfit, suitable for both everyday use and special occasions. Once you determine whether a folding or permanent model suits your daily needs better, the question of how to choose a good umbrella becomes much simpler.