You don’t have to hide inside with the shades drawn or dress like a beekeeper to protect yourself from the harmful effects of the sun’s ultraviolet rays. With more and more companies jumping on the UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) clothing train, there are fashionable options aplenty.
Shop the figure-flattering ensemble tailored specifically to your body type, and then step out in style—we’ve got you covered from head to toe, literally. And don’t forget to apply a broad spectrum SPF to save your exposed skin.
Bring it, summer!
1Sun Protective Fashion: Ruler Shape
The allover floral print on this short-sleeve surf shirt and matching swim skirt—both from the Tory Burch garden-themed Spring 2014 runway collection—will help fill out a Ruler’s thinner frame, while subtly incorporating the season’s botanical trend—and, most importantly, protecting your skin. The flirty, fuller bottoms will add a little extra in the hip area, where Rulers can always use some love. To make the look work when not waterside, slip on a pair of boyfriend jean shorts. Accessorize this pretty beach style with nude gladiator sandals, a braided raffia UPF 50+ fedora, and green aviator sunglasses with 100 percent UVA/UVB protection.
Tory Burch Tomino Surf Shirt, $225, and Swim Skirt, $135
Gap 1969 Sexy Boyfriend Denim Shorts, $50
Sam Edelman Flat Genette Gladiator Sandals, $100, Bloomingdale’s
2Sun Protective Fashion: Triangle Shape
Drawing the eye up and away from fuller hips and butt is key for Triangles. To ensure that attention stays on the narrower parts of your body—namely, your shoulders and waist—opt for a graphic print on top, like this cool black and white UPF 50 rash guard. Pair with a solid black skort in a repellant UPF 50 fabric. The midrise A-line silhouette will flatter your lower half and allow you to show off those killer legs, while the built-in stretch briefs will prevent any awkward flasher moments. Stick with the two-tone theme—a big trend for summer!—and accessorize with canvas slip-on sneakers, a wide-brimmed UPF 50+ hat, and statement shades with 100 percent UV protection.
J. Crew Geometric Tiki Rash Guard, $78
Columbia Women’s Anytime Casual Skort, $60
Superga 2210 COTW Slip-On Sneakers, $60, Zappos
3Sun Protective Fashion: Inverted Triangle Shape
To balance out broader shoulders and an ample chest, Inverted Triangles need to wear something fuller on their lower halves. So it should come as great news that swingy, A-line skirts are having a major moment. This midi number’s flattering bias cut and multicolor diagonal stripes will keep interest away from the upper body. Plus, it has UPF 30, so you can shield in style. Top things off with a lightweight UPF sweatshirt, complete with thumbholes to protect your hands from sunburn. But, really, can we just admit that it looks cool? Accessorize this sporty-chic ensemble with double-strap buckle sandals, an on-trend straw visor, and shield sunglasses with 100 percent UV protection.
Uniqlo UV Cut Mesh Long Sleeve Full-Zip Hoodie, $23
Zara Leather Sandals With Buckles, $100
4Sun Protective Fashion: Hourglass Shape
If you’ve got it, flaunt it! Hourglasses, we’re talking to you. This navy and white striped dress will hug your curves in all the right places, give you a classic French aesthetic and provide UPF 50 protection. That’s a fashion trifecta right there, non? To go full-on Brigitte Bardot, accessorize with red leather ballet flats, a floppy UPF 50+ hat, and 100 percent UV protection cat-eye sunglasses. We’ll leave choosing the perfect trashy beach-read novel to you.
Mott 50 Hvar Boatneck Dress, $138
Nine West Classica Ballet Flats, $59
Eric Javits Squishee IV Hat, $198
Marc by Marc Jacobs Cat-Eye Sunglasses, $110, Bloomingdale’s
5Sun Protective Fashion: Circle Shape
From beach to boardwalk, this punchy cover-up is a must-have for Circle shapes. The open neckline and hood will draw attention away from your midsection, which will be concealed thanks to a strategically placed kangaroo pocket. And let’s not ignore the ultra-important UPF 50+ protection and wicking fabric for sun-shielding and sweat-proofing. Win-win, people. Pair with strappy snake-embossed sandals, a wide-brim UPF 50+ hat, and oversize ivory 100 UV protection sunglasses.
Athleta Wick-It Wader Coverup, $69
Cynthia Vincent Alisa Sandal, $285, Piperlime
San Diego Hat Company Women’s Mixed Braid Large Brim Hat, $32
