You'll Have It Made in the Shade with These 15 Stylish Patio Umbrellas

Shade is a Southerner's best friend, and a patio umbrella is a simple yet smart way to get some relief from the sun's glare. Whether you're by the pool, the lake, or just looking for an afternoon patio escape, sweltering days are best spent in the shade. If you want to step outside your screened porch, equipping your patio with the right accessories will ensure you're lounging in comfort and style. But with so many shapes and sizes available online, it's important to know what factors to look for in a suitable outdoor patio umbrella. So, we turned to the experts.

"First, take into account the size and shape of the area you want to cover," recommends Lindsey Zborowski, style expert for Wayfair Professional. "It's best to calculate an additional 2 feet on each side, whether it's a table or patio seating." You should also think about the type of climate you reside in. "If you live near the ocean, consider an umbrella with an aluminum poll which is less likely to rust or corrode from salt air," she advises. Fabrics and structures that will stand up to the elements are also crucial. "A Sunbrella fabric is UV-resistant, meaning it won't fade or discolor in the sun like some materials do over time, and it also resists mildew. Fiberglass canopy ribs can provide structure flexibility as well, making [the umbrella] less likely to break in heavy wind. It's also more resistant to salt air, humidity, or heavy moisture."

Make sure your base is ready to keep your umbrella safely grounded too. A 20-pound base is usually best for an umbrella that's 6 feet in diameter, while a 50-pound base is recommended for one that's 9 feet. Umbrellas 11 feet or larger typically require a 70-pound base or more.

Finally, make sure it fits your style. "Umbrellas with retro flair are having a moment right now," Zborowski reveals. "But while umbrellas with scalloped edges or those that resemble parasols may be trending, traditional, striped, and neutral-tone umbrellas are always popular."

Ready to add more shade to your outdoor space? Here are some of the best patio umbrellas to shop on Wayfair right now.