Throw some SHADE

Nia Magoulianiti-McGregor discovers the latest in shades, awnings and umbrellas to keep you comfy, cool, and on-trend 

- Nia Magoulianiti-McGregor

When it comes to the world of patio umbrellas, Erhardt van Zyl, Cape Umbrellas’ business development manager, usually knows what’s coming. “We always see a trend shift every few years from aluminium umbrellas to wood umbrellas and the other way round. A new shift started at the end of 2021, with more clients opting for and changing to wood umbrellas. There’s a reason: it goes better with those design umbrellas that are sporting tassels for some extra elegance. “We have really seen these take off,” he comments. Still, no one is dismissing the abiding popularity of aluminium. “This is still a huge seller due to the durability of the product.”

Fabric colours now in vogue? “Ecru – light beige – is a traditional colour and is, year on year, the most popular shade, but we have started to see a big shift towards striped fabrics including black and white, blue and white, and green and white. These are very much on-trend.” 

PARCHAUS CANTILEVER PARASOLS