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Just like sunscreen has sun protection factor (SPF), there’s clothing with ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) to shield skin from harmful rays. The best kinds create a barrier between both UVA and UVB rays, which are responsible for aging and wrinkling and sunburn and skin cancer, respectively. So, even if you use plenty of sunscreen, it’s not a bad idea to double up with protective clothing, especially on days when the sun is at its worst.
The good news is that there’s a fair number of options that are both protective, stylish and affordable. And although there are certainly pieces with long sleeves, there are just as many that don’t cover every inch of skin showing. Whether you have a vacation on the horizon or just want to be more sun conscious in general, these tops, bottoms and dresses stand in the way of UV rays.
18 Fashion Pieces That Protect Against UV Rays
Tops
1. Our Favorite: This long-sleeve button-down is easy enough to throw over your tank top or bathing suit for extra sun protection. It comes in 16 colors and has cool scrunched up side details.
2. Affordable Find: Swap out your usual T-shirt for one that has UPF 50+ protection. This basic short-sleeve top comes in a range of colors and patterns.
3. Cute Cardie: Even a walk in the morning can result in UV exposure, so grab this lightweight $20 cardigan to ensure you’re covered. We love the thumbhole sleeves!
4. Flowy Tank: You’ll be ready for an outdoor tennis match in this workout tank top that has an easy crewneck and stylish side slits. The four-way stretch ensures it moves with you!
5. Rash Guard, Skin Guard: Although this is a long-sleeve shirt, it was designed to be soft, breathable and lightweight so your skin is protected on long walks.
6. High-Low Top: This loose crewneck shirt has a high-low design, so it can easily be worn with leggings or biker shorts. It was designed to protect against UVA and UVB rays.
Bottoms
7. Our Favorite: With a cropped, flowy style, elastic waistband and side slits, these UV-blocking pants feel lightweight against the skin, making them ideal for throwing on with a range of tops.
8. Adventure-Ready: These hiking-style shorts are quick-drying, so even if you work up a sweat while enjoying the sun, you’ll stay comfortable. The zipped pockets are a helpful touch!
9. Secret Skort: No one will suspect that this UPF 50+ skirt is actually a skort with discreet shorts underneath. It can be worn for a round of golf or styled for lunch.
10. Swingy Style: Summer clothing is oftentimes flowy and airy, and that’s what you get with this high-waisted skort. It boasts a skirt-like panel in the front to make them more unique than what’s already in your closet.
11. Soft Skirt: This maxi skirt with side slits will quickly become a summer staple, as it has a flexible waistband and A-line design that’s flattering on everyone. It’s made of Modal fabric, which is known for being soft and breathable.
12. Mad for Pockets: Featuring two side pockets and two inner shorts pockets, this high-waisted athletic skirt ensures you can just throw it on and go.
Dresses
13. Our Favorite: This under-$30 sleeveless dress hits just above the knee and features hidden pockets for an option you’ll want to wear day to day.
14. Casual Cover-Up: After taking a dip in the pool, throw on this long-sleeve cover-up that has a cute hood and lightweight feel.
15. Must-Have Maxi: You may already have a sleeveless maxi dress, but does it protect against UVA and UVB rays like this Columbia crewneck number? Wear it while running errands or dressed up for an early dinner.
16. Vacation Pick: Bring the tropical vibes in this Stella Parker dress that has prominent side slits.
17. Sporty Spice: A collared athletic dress with separate shorts isn’t only ultra-comfortable, but it’ll use its UPF 50+ magic to ensure you’re covered.
18. Handy Zip-Up: This zip-up cover-up dress will be your best friend this summer. Throw it on over a bathing suit or tank and shorts when the sun is at its highest.
