Six very shady characters
Long ago, someone -- undoubtedly a marketer -- invented the market umbrella, a name that reeked of Euro chic. Even so, this quintessential California accessory has lived in the shadows of Nantucket solids and stripes. Now, the umbrella market is opening up to alluring colors and shapes. If these prove glaring, try the high-tech options at the new Victory Furniture in Santa Monica, which stocks circular silver sunshades and black mesh umbrellas shaped like manta rays.
$165
The perfect companion to a teak daybed or dining table, this Balinese import, used as a parasol for processionals, provides a glistening focal point with a highly reflective floral print in gold. Made from acetate and painted wood, with accents in colorful cotton, it is suitable for sun but not rain protection. Available in blue, green and purple from Koan Collection, Los Angeles, (323) 464-3735.
$899
Tuuci’s octagonal Pagoda umbrella really covers the waterfront — offering a shaded area over 10 feet wide and a goes-with-anything neutral color scheme of tan with black trim. The fiberglass canopy provides flexibility in strong winds, and the exaggerated peak creates a subtly Asian silhouette that works well with any style of outdoor furniture. From https://www.front gate.com, (888) 263-9850.
$79
With a price that whispers “Why not buy a pair?” this 6-foot diameter wood outdoor umbrella ($109 for the 9-foot version) offers the same type of tilting mechanism found in higher-priced spreads. The 6-footer comes with a pointed end for easy beach and backyard setup. Stripes add color to your décor, be it nautical or lanai. Also in blue ($69 and $89) from https://www.pbteen.com , (866) 472-4001.
$450
Designed for the beach, with built-in towel hooks and a carrying case, this lightweight 6 1/2-foot Italian sun shade will brighten up any yard or patio. The umbrella has a Victorian canopy with a flirtatious scalloped edge made of a marine-grade acrylic that resists sun, salt and icky mildew. Also available in yellow and blue, from https://www.frontgate.com , (888) 263-9850.
$299
Dinner for eight? Relax. The Atrium market umbrella, a generous 10-by-6-foot rectangle that rises 9 feet from the ground, has got you covered. The black powder-coated aluminum frame complements the UV-ray-blocking Sunbrella canopy, which comes in a simple but chic black and ivory stripe with a refreshing splash of aqua, making it a natural for a poolside table. At Crate & Barrel.
$11.95
Whether sunning solo or setting up a shady spot for the kids, this portable parasol — with an unusual 3-foot-square shape and a pointed-end white metal pole — lets you stake out the surf and the turf. The water-resistant heavy-duty polyester canopy sports jaunty blocks of neon colors once reserved for novelty zinc oxides. Available in sky/kiwi and raspberry/tangerine at Crate & Barrel.