Get the lowdown on how UPF clothing and accessories can help you stay safe this summer—plus, shop R29 editors
Get the lowdown on how UPF clothing and accessories can help you stay safe this summer—plus, shop R29 editors' fave pieces and more.
Vuori Dune Crop
“UPF clothing offers a convenient and reliable way to protect the skin from harmful UV radiation, and it works even when wet,” says Dr. Levin, who name-checks Vuori’s comfortable yet functional performance wear as one of her go-tos.
Seea Rashguard Palomar Crop Top
If you have tattoos, invest in a crop top like this one to protect them from the sun, which can result in fading. The stretchy fabric (UPF 30 to 50) means it can be worn alone or on top of a swimsuit or bikini top.
– JK Ray Ban Kiliane Bio Based Polarized Sunglasses
“Polarized lenses block 100% of UVA rays (responsible for premature aging and skin cancer) and UVB (associated with sunburn), as well as the sun’s glare, but I’ve struggled to find a pair that look good. Until now, that is. I love the modern shape and auburn tinge on these Ray Ban frames, and they’re just as cool in black.”
— JK Coolibar Medley Zip-Up Swim Bra UPF 50+
Another of Dr. Levin’s favorites is Coolibar’s range of UPF swimwear. Yes, that’s right: Even the right swimsuit can help protect your skin. “However, it's important to note that UPF clothing should be used in conjunction with other sun protection methods, including sunscreen, for optimal results,” she adds.
Stelle Women's UPF 50+ Sun Protection Hoodie Jacket
“Even when I’m at the beach, I try to soak up the sun in moderation. (Sorry, Sheryl Crow.) I’m never without a hat or sunnies and, as of a few months ago, added a rash guard to my safe-sun essentials. My absolute favorite style has since sold out, but I found a near-identical match that features similar lightweight fabric and a full-zip hoodie style that gives surfer girl in such a cool way. It’s not a substitute for sunscreen, but I feel safer knowing that the fabric alone has a UPF of 50.”
— Karina Hoshikawa, Senior Writer KINONA In Play UPF 50+ Golf Dress
“If you like to play sports in the sun, consider this mini dress (it has pockets)! Not only does the stretchy material equal maximum comfort, it also absorbs sweat and boasts antimicrobial properties to prevent bacteria growth on sweaty summer days.”
— JK Princess Polly Summer Salty Terry Bucket Hat
“First comes fresh summer braids, second comes scalp sunburn. I’m not sure if any other Black people can relate, but last summer I showed up to Mexico with some swanky Fulani braids and left with a red, flaky head. Now, I make sure to pop on a hat until my scalp has a fighting chance against those tough UV rays (with the help of sunscreen, of course). I love Princess Polly’s bucket hats because they fit my big head and look good with most of my wardrobe.”
— Alexandra Polk, Affiliate Lifestyle Writer Anteef Long Sleeve Cooling Shirt
“I’m really into oversized shirts lately, whether half-tucked into jeans or thrown over a tank top. This is 100% polyester, and provides UPF 50+ UV protection. It’s available in multiple colors like khaki and pink, but I love this crisp, white version best. It’ll look great with denim shorts and tan leather sandals.” —
JK Le Specs Air Heart Sunglasses
“Sunglasses are an easy win for staying safe in the sun. While it’s tempting to cop cheap pairs at a big-box store, the truth is that you get what you pay for in this case, and it’s always important to make sure your eyewear has some degree of anti-UV coating. My latest fancy pair are the Le Specs Air Heart in this mushroom-y beige hue, and I love them dearly — not only do they make me feel like the bougiest version of myself, but they have 100% UV protection, as well as an oversized surface area to protect my peepers. I love an
al fresco brunch as much as the next gal, so it gives me peace of mind to know that my eyeballs aren’t being fried by the sun when I’m out and about. (And yes, ocular melanoma is real. Google it at your own risk!)”
— KH Browns Peony Weekend Sun Striped Bikini Top
“I like this bikini top so much, I wouldn’t just wear it by the pool or at the beach. The stretchy fabric features built-in UV protection and the short sleeves will cover up my very sensitive shoulders, which are always the first to feel the effects of the sun when I’m somewhere hot.”
— JK Sun Straw Hat Wide Brim UPF 50
“This summer, I want to be a floppy hat person. I can just imagine wearing this very chic number (it features UV UPF 50+ protection, by the way) with an oversized shirt, denim shorts and tortoiseshell shades. Strawberry daiquiri in hand, of course.”
— JK Eric Javits Champ Visor
“This is proof that visors can be chic. I try to top up the sunscreen on my face every couple hours, but there’s no such thing as too much protection — and this provides UPF 50+. Not only is it adjustable, it’s also washable. I’m
really into the straw brim.”
— JK Lands’ End High Neck UPF 50 Sun Protection Tankini Swimsuit Top
“If you hold your garment up to the sun and light penetrates or you can see through it, then it is unlikely to provide good sun protection,” explains Joshua Zeichner, MD, Associate Professor of Dermatology and the Director of Cosmetic & Clinical Research in Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York. “Lands’ End has a great selection of sun-protective clothing. That’s where I usually make purchases for my family.” Our pick? This sporty high-neck swim tank, which is ideal for anyone looking for modest beach attire — not to mention a win for keeping your torso protected.
Solbari Bondi Bucket Hat UPF50+
The ‘90s kid in me welcomes the return of the bucket hat, and this one has been tested and rated UPF 50 by Australian standards. According to Solbari, it’s equivalent to wearing SPF 50 sunscreen (though that doesn’t mean you can skimp on how much you apply on your skin).
— JK BesserBay Women UPF 50+ Half Zip Short Sleeve Rash Guard Shirt
“This is actually a swimming top but I can totally imagine wearing it zipped up with leggings while working out outdoors or even tucked into high-waisted denim shorts. It has UPF 50+ protection, as it’s made from 84% polyester and 16% elastane.”
— JK L.L. Bean Adults' Sunsmart 5 Panel Cap
“I’ll be vacationing in Sicily this summer, so I’m in the market for a new hat to protect my scalp from the intense sun. When I researched baseball caps with UPF protection, I didn’t find too many legit options, but this L.L. Bean UPF 50+ hat looks promising. It blocks over 97% of the sun’s UV rays, and comes in three summery colors that I’d be more than happy to rock this season.”
— Victoria Montalti, Associate Affiliate Writer Athleta Playa Linen Shirt
“You cannot get me out of my Athleta white linen shirt in the summer. I went into a deep dive last year looking for the best linen cover-ups to keep me cool and protected, and this find won out. It’s a bit heavier and more structured than your regular linen top, but that’s what I was in the market for. It can easily go from the beach to the office, from happy hour cocktails to brunch with your relatives, and it looks great with jean cutoffs or styled over a silk dress during the super warm, sweaty days.”
— Clare Palo, Senior Strategist, Audience Development![](https://guyharvey.com/cdn/shop/products/Men_sLongSleevePerformanceSunProtectionShirtUPF50BlueFront_1946x.jpg?v=1646887008)
Men's Long Sleeve Sun Protection Shirt UPF 50+ – Guy Harvey
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