Sweet summertime has officially arrived. I cannot lie to you – I love the sun. I love being tan. I grew up in the era where we “laid out” in the sun. My beloved Coco Chanel made “tans” fashionable. I can still see my mother in her lawn chair slathering on Bain de Soleil (it was an orange gel). Her Cutex white frost polished fingers and toes contrasted with her deep St. Tropez tan. She was the most beautiful woman I had ever seen. I think I look “healthier” tan (actually I think everyone does).
Now we all know there is no such thing as a healthy tan. More people are diagnosed with skin cancer each year in the U.S. than all other cancers combined. Besides the cancer risk, sun damage is the one of the biggest factors in aging.
Choosing the right clothing is key when it comes to protecting yourself from the sun. The good news is that fashion has caught up with the times, and stylish sun protective clothing is available.
Ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) is the rating system used for clothing. UPF measures a fabric’s effectiveness agains both ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. This rating is based is on the content, weight, color and construction of the fabric to protect you. The higher the rating, the higher the sun protection. A UPF rating of 50 is considered the gold standard, blocking about 95% of UV rays.
An average white tee shirt has a sun protection factor of approximately seven, which drops to three when wet. Darker colors and tighter weaves provide more blockage. Keep in mind that wear and tear (washing and stretching) lowers sun protection. Look for moisture wicking and breathable or ventilated styles to be comfortably cool.
Pappagallo is proud to offer several brands with a 50 UPF rating. Lilly Pulitzer has dresses, tops and an entire athletic line designed to keep you stylish and sun safe. Our newest addition, Whimsy Rose tees, are fun and colorful original prints great for golfers and sun enthusiasts. Come to Pappagallo today, and let us introduce you to our sun-safe fashions.
– by Nicki Smith
About the Author: Nicki Smith has been in the fashion industry for 36 years. She is the owner of and buyer for Pappagallo, located at 2020 Scottsville Road in Bowling Green (The Pines Shopping Center, next to Chico).
