Umbrella. Parasol. Gamp. Brolly. Umbrellery. Bumbershoot.

All these words describe the same thing — a rather persnickety element that has evolved to shade the user from the sun, snow, hail, sleet, rain…or otherwise manmade storms. It’s known for dangerous spines that can take out an eye and a tendency to upturn itself rightside out. For an anatomy of this bloomin’ contraption, click on the image at left.

Until we come up with a better design, the best we can do is find a standout design that we won’t thoughtlessly forget in an airport, movie theater, or restaurant. The Marimekko models are colorful and compact — perfect lightweight brellas that will easily stand up to the low wind storms of summer. They start at about $30.

In case you were wondering about the lead image….(also below) it’s from the recently started Steal Our Ideas blog (anyone working in the creative ad industry will appreciate it.) Two former ad agency people come up with creative concepts, like the recycling of umbrellas into chic raincoats. Fashionable, economical, and environmentally aware. I love it! Click on the image below to see the full size version on their site.

This post is tagged umbrella