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Member since 10/30/10
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Posted on: 5/25/15 2:29 AM ET
Anyone own a pretty parasol with a wide diameter and good sun protection? I want to start walking to work (a pleasant mile each direction) but need shade protection. My plain old ordinary umbrella works just fine but I'd love to have something pretty. I've scanned dozens online but would welcome input from anyone who actually owns one. I'd prefer to not buy from overseas.
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Member since 7/17/13
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Posted on: 5/25/15 6:13 AM ET
I picked mine up at a local chemist. It is actually an umbrella, pale pink with black spots, and a lace outside edge. It guarantee's that no-one will steal it from work.
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Member since 9/2/14
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Posted on: 5/25/15 7:55 AM ET
I am not sure about your location, but I bought a lovely parasol in Chinatown here in Vancouver. It has a bamboo pole and a beautiful design on its rice paper. Or at least I think it's rice paper.

Anyway, it cost me under twenty dollars. It holds back the sun and it is super pretty and feminine.
  
Member since 2/7/04
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Posted on: 5/25/15 10:08 AM ET
I have a collection of pretty ones, purchased at fairs, especially in New Mexico, one in every vehicle and my office, etc.

Yes, I like using them and I think I walk with a bit of swing when I'm holding one up.
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Surviving is important but thriving is elegant.
Maya Angelou
  
Member since 4/1/08
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Posted on: 5/25/15 10:18 AM ET
In reply to BriarRose
Art Print Umbrellas
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Each fallen petal reveals a life pollinated by a colony
and nurtured by The Master Gardener.
  
Member since 5/11/08
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Posted on: 5/25/15 10:26 AM ET
When I moved to Tucson, I noticed that many women used them. I think it is so smart.
  
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Posted on: 5/25/15 12:41 PM ET
In reply to a7yrstitch
Oh, those are what I am looking for! So many of the other ones I've seen have small canopies or are made for short term use for photographs or weddings. Have you ever ordered from this company?
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It's just fabric; we can out-think it.
  
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Posted on: 5/25/15 12:43 PM ET
In reply to Vancouvergirl
I'd love to have a collection of paper parasols... but we have wind and all it would take is a single unexpected gust to blow the paper apart. Ask me how I know...
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It's just fabric; we can out-think it.
  
Member since 12/13/08
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Posted on: 5/25/15 12:59 PM ET
So... have you thought about a nice big hat?

I've carried parasols at Fair (the Renaissance fair) when my ensemble did not include a hat, and I get much, much better shade and cooling from a large-brimmed hat. My MIL, who has had skin cancer, carries an umbrella--and it does the job, but they're heavy. The bamboo handle and workings of paper parasols really do make a significant difference. If you're going to be carrying it a significant distance daily, I would keep the weight in mind--just like carrying a heavy bag on one shoulder, it could eventually throw off your alignment.

Have fun! They are *awfully* charming.
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~Elizabeth in the prairie
More Plans than Sense
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Member since 4/1/08
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Posted on: 5/25/15 3:39 PM ET
In reply to BriarRose
I hadn't ordered from that company but linked it as many of the art type umbrellas look like they are made by the same manufacturer. The compact umbrellas are lighter but feel like they have to be held higher. The hook handle umbrellas, naturally, are heavier but have their appeal too.

And, hats, don't forget about those. Panama Hats are really, really nice.
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Each fallen petal reveals a life pollinated by a colony
and nurtured by The Master Gardener.
  
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