I Moved to L.A. and Went All In on UPF Clothing
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I moved to Los Angeles back in April, and I’ve learned a few things: First, the traffic really is that bad. Second, the sunshine is unyielding. (Even “May Gray” and “June Gloom” were mostly sunny.) I never thought too much sun would be an issue, since I rarely burn and tan easily. But, I started to notice a few new freckles (a sign of sun damage) and tan lines up and down my arms and shoulders. I’m adamant aboutbody sunscreenon beach days and long hikes, but it’s something I struggle bringing into my everyday routine, especially when I’m just strolling around my neighborhood, running errands, or driving in the middle of the day (my slightly darker left hand is proof I’ve tanned in the car).
As an alternative, I sought out a bunch of UPF clothing. First, I looked back at a story I did last year when I spoke tosun-protection obsessives about their go-to gear. I requested a few pieces that seemed like they could work with my lifestyle. Then, I did my own search to fill in the gaps: lightweight long-sleeves for running,rash guardsfor surfing, and the like. Below are pieces I’ve tested and brought into my wardrobe. Plus some other UPF tops I have my eyes on for the future.
The shrug I wear over tank tops
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I remembered the brand Solbari from interviewingGrace Park, who wore the brand basically head-to-toe. I requested a couple pieces from the brand, but this is the one that I wore most. It’s easier to throw on than a zip-up or hoodie and made of very lightweight, stretchy material. It also goes with athleisure and casualtank tops. Because of its versatility and convenience, I’ll usually grab this when I’m going on walks or running errands.
The wrap I can throw on for workout classes
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I go to a neighborhood yoga studio about twice a week, usually in a sports bra or tank. To avoid spaghetti-strap tan lines, I started throwing this on on my walks to class. It’s much more breezy than a pull over, so I’m not sweating by the time I hit the mat.
The tops light enough to run and hike in
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I’ve kind of come to terms with my shorts tan from running and hiking, but I still want to avoid any awkward lines on my chest and arms if I can. I called in a bunch of lightweight long sleeves from Free People’s activewear section and ended up gravitating towards these two the most. The ruched top is slightly thicker but not at all stuffy, so I can still comfortably hike in it without getting overheated. I also think it works as a nonathletic top, so it’s one I plan on repurchasing in different colors.
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I really like the weight of the white long sleeve. It’s so airy that I don’t find myself sweating any more than I usually would with this, even on hotter days or runs. I like the loose fit, since it allows for more breathability, and the fitted band along the hem keeps the shirt from flailing around.
The rash guards I can swim and surf in
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My back is slightly darker than my chest and stomach from laying out and laying on my surfboard, so I needed a solution. A simple rash guard is easy to come by, but I had a very specific set of criteria. Functionally, I wanted something tight fitting that wouldn’t cause drag in the water. Aesthetically, I wanted something that didn’t look overly sporty or boring. Left On Fridays is already one of my favoriteswimsuitbrands, so I wasn’t surprised to find they also carried very cute rash guards. These lettuce-edged versions are new releases this year and have become a must before paddling out.
The gloves I keep in my car
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After a couple of months in L.A., I started noticing more of a tan in my left hand from all the time spent driving. I remembered Park having the same issue and using driving gloves to help. I requested these from Prequel, and I keep them in my center console at all times now. I like that they’re fingerless, because I find touchscreen fingertips are finicky. And, importantly, they’re comfortable and feel like I’m barely wearing anything. They look a little ridiculous, but at least my hands are protected while fighting through bumper to bumper traffic.
UPF Clothing I Want to Try Next
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