When photos of Anne Hathaway on holiday in Italy hit Vogue this month, she was covered in UPF clothing, signalling a growing shift toward clothing that protects as much as it flatters.
The Shift Toward Passive Protection
This isn’t just a trend driven by celebrity influence, it’s part of a bigger movement toward passive, built-in sun protection. If you wouldn’t wear sunnies without UV protection, why head outside in a tee that does nothing for your skin?
Here’s the thing about UPF clothing, once it’s on, it’s doing the job. No reapplying. No second guessing. No “did I miss a spot?” panic.
And with all the recent talk about sunscreens not always matching their labels, more people are considering a layered approach to sun protection. That’s where UPF clothing comes in. It’s reliable, it’s repeatable, and it’s low fuss.
Think of UPF clothing as your everyday base layer. It covers the big stuff like shoulders, backs, and arms, while your SPF takes care of the rest. It’s the kind of protection that works in the background so you can get on with your day.
Sun Safety Is Not Optional
UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) clothing isn’t a new idea but it’s finally becoming a must for sun protection. Once reserved for athletes or hardcore adventurers, sun protective apparel is now being embraced by everyone from dermatologists to A listers. And with good reason: Australia has some of the highest UV levels in the world. Throwing on a tee and calling it “sun safe” doesn’t cut it anymore.
Unlike your standard cotton shirt, which might only offer a UPF of 5, specially designed UPF garments are rated to block 98 percent of harmful UVA and UVB rays. That’s protection you can count on, even after a swim or a sweaty hike.
Why We Love It
When high profile figures like Anne Hathaway opt for UPF clothing on holiday, it sends a clear message: sun safety is no longer optional or unfashionable. It’s smart, stylish, and increasingly essential. The rise of UPF fashion is part of a broader awareness around skin health, longevity, and low maintenance sun protection.
At Sun Ray, we’ve long believed that looking good and staying protected go hand in hand. The beauty of UPF clothing lies in its simplicity:
- Built in protection – No need to reapply
- Covers hard to reach spots – Like your shoulders, back, and chest
- Pairs well with SPF – It’s about layering your protection, not replacing it
A Movement, Not a Moment
What we’re seeing right now from beach clubs in Capri to weekend markets in Byron is just the beginning. UPF clothing is no longer just for kids at swim school or surfers chasing waves. It’s for anyone who wants to stay out longer, feel more comfortable, and protect the skin they’re in.
Explore our latest UPF50+ drops – made for the Australian sun, designed in Melbourne, and built for all day wear. Stay shady.
Content Disclaimer:
The information on this website is for general educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. While we’re passionate about sun protection, our content shouldn’t be taken as personal health advice. If you have any concerns about your skin or health, please speak to a qualified medical professional.