Living in a sunny climate means I'm always thinking about sun protection. I've tried tons of sunscreens, but I wanted a more reliable and stylish way to shield my skin, especially during long days outdoors. That’s when I started exploring the world of UPF clothing. My journey led me to discover some really effective solutions, and I want to share what I learned about sun protection clothing.
Initially, I was overwhelmed by all the options. I needed something that was both practical and fashionable. I wanted clothing that I could wear every day, not just when I was at the beach. I remember thinking, "There has to be a better way than just slathering on sunscreen every two hours!" I also needed something that would work for different activities, from gardening to swimming.
One of my biggest concerns was finding clothing that wouldn't break the bank. I saw so many expensive UPF items and wondered if they were really worth the price. I started researching what makes clothing sun-protective and if there were more affordable alternatives.
It turns out, UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) ratings are important, but not the only thing to consider. I realized that tightly woven fabrics, even without a specific UPF rating, can offer good sun protection. The key is to look for denser materials that don't let a lot of light through. This was a game-changer for me because it meant I didn't have to spend a fortune on specially marketed UPF clothing.
I also discovered that darker colors generally offer better sun protection than lighter ones. This made sense, as darker fabrics absorb more UV rays. With these insights, I began experimenting with different clothing options already in my closet.
For everyday wear, I love wearing oversized linen or cotton gauze button-ups over t-shirts or by themselves. They're lightweight, breathable, and provide good coverage. Plus, they're super stylish! I usually opt for darker colors or prints for extra protection.
When I need something quick and easy for driving or outdoor activities, I reach for arm sleeves. I have a pair from Outdoor Research that are perfect for those situations where I don't want a full jacket. They’re small enough to keep in my bag and convenient to put on.
For swimming and gardening, I found that Columbia long-sleeve UPF shirts are fantastic. They’re comfortable, lightweight, and dry quickly. I even found some cute skorts from them that are perfect for gardening!
I also used to work at Athleta, and I can attest to the quality of their UPF clothing. Many of their items have built-in sun protection, and they’re designed for active lifestyles.
While I was searching for professional attire, I stumbled upon something interesting. I was browsing Gracequeens for work outfits and came across the Formal Female Skirt Suits for Women Business Suits Navy Blue Blazer and Jacket Sets Ladies Work Wear OL Styles. I thought, "Could this actually offer some sun protection too?"
Now, I'm not suggesting wearing a full suit to the beach, but the blazer and skirt are made of a tightly woven fabric that provides decent sun protection, especially for the arms and legs. It's a stylish option for outdoor meetings or events where you need to look professional while staying protected. Plus, the navy blue color helps absorb UV rays. I find the blazer to be a lifesaver when I need a professional look without sacrificing sun protection.
I can share my experience with this suit. The fabric is surprisingly comfortable, and the fit is flattering. I wore it to an outdoor conference recently, and I felt much more protected from the sun than I would have in a lighter, less structured outfit. If you're looking for business attire that offers a bit of sun protection, you might want to view details.
I haven't purchased anything from them yet, but Coolibar is another brand that specializes in UPF clothing. I’ve seen people recommend their products, and they seem to have a wide range of options. I'm particularly interested in their shrugs, as they seem like a versatile way to add sun protection to any outfit. I am considering purchasing the Coolibar Women's Kaycos Shrug UPF 50 for added protection on my arms.