Parasol Etiquette: a Crash Course in Bringing your Own Shade without Poking Someone's Eye Out or Causing a Traffic Jam.

As the sun starts shining brighter and hotter during the summer months, you're going to want to break out your parasol or sun umbrella to stay cool and protected. While parasols and sun umbrellas might not be the norm in the U.S., navigating parasol etiquette is a breeze with a few key tips.

Be mindful of your surroundings

 

When it comes to bringing your own shade, the most important thing to remember is to look up and out. Be mindful of your surroundings, as you might encounter all sorts of things. Lamp posts, trees, street signs, benches—they all loom in your path. Canopy vision is a surefire way to take a tumble or get a black eye! So be careful.  

And absolutely, stay alert when using a crosswalk or navigating a parking lot. Make sure to peek out from under your canopy and let your eyes meet those of the drivers around you.

 

 

Know when to fold

Knowing when to fold your parasol is another crucial element of parasol etiquette. Always keep a conscientious eye out in crowded areas. Some spots will be too tight with other pedestrians. You can turn your parasol vertically, raise or lower the canopy, or fold your sun umbrella momentarily to avoid causing discomfort or inconvenience to others. CutieUV's purse parasols are manual sun umbrellas, making opening and closing them graceful and easy without all the popping and hoopla of automatic sun umbrellas. 

And, of course, always make sure to close your parasol when you're indoors. 

 

 

Sharing is caring

Sharing is caring, especially when it comes to the precious shade provided by your parasol. Keep an eye out for fellow pavement pounders who might need a shady spot to cool off. Offer your slice of shade, and watch as your parasol becomes the ultimate icebreaker. The world needs more acts of random kindness, doesn't it? (But keep your safety in mind, too!)

 

 

Engage with curiosity

One of the funniest and most enjoyable things about carrying a parasol is the looks you'll get from kids. Don't be surprised if you attract a gaggle of curious onlookers—especially the pint-sized ones with sticky fingers and a knack for asking awkward questions. Embrace the attention with a dazzling smile and a twirl of your parasol, and who knows? You might just inspire the next generation of parasol aficionados. Move over, fashionistas—there's a new trendsetter in town.

 

 

 

Squash any self-consciousness you might feel

Confidence while using a parasol is all about owning your style and embracing the practicality of your choice. 

Ever find yourself in a sea of sun-seekers and not a parasol in sight? That's where the savvy move of confidently using your parasol comes into play. Others can bake under the blazing sun, but you're chilling in the cool shade you brought with you. It's like having your own personal oasis in the midst of the scorching heat. Sure, it might raise a few eyebrows at first, but hey, who's the one enjoying a sunburn-free existence? Embracing the parasol life is not just about staying cool; it's about making a smart choice in a sea of sun-drenched souls. So, why sweat it out when you can go about with style and comfort? Hold your parasol high, walk with purpose, and let your confidence shine as brightly as the sun you're smartly shielding yourself from.
 

 

Recognize other parasol users

Lastly, it takes work being a first-adopting trendsetter. When you pass another parasol user on the street, compliment their use of a parasol. You both know how smart your decision is. Take a moment to share pride in your forward-thinking choice to bring your own shade. This small gesture can go a long way in making new friends and building a parasol community. The world needs more people like you. 

In addition to these tips, there are a few other things to remember when using a parasol. For example, choosing a parasol that fits your needs is essential. If you plan to walk around for a while, choose a lightweight and easy-to-carry parasol. CutieUV's Purse Parasols are made for this purpose. 

Using a parasol is a great way to stay cool and stylish during sunny times. However, it's important to be mindful of your surroundings, know when to fold, share the shade, engage with curiosity, and recognize other parasol users. With these tips in mind, you can enjoy the benefits of having your own shade wherever you go without causing discomfort or inconvenience to those around you. So go ahead and bring your own shade, spread some kindness, and enjoy the summer sun, one parasol at a time!