Un-frilly wedding parasols for maids in the shade

Source: etsy.com
I have that kind of transparent Irish skin that repels the sun, and live in a cave like a Morlock. All of that is true except for the cave part. But I know I would love a handy parasol for sunny ceremonies. It would prevent the need for sunglasses, everyone in full salute-mode covering their eyes, or the ever unflattering squint. But even on overcast days, you can't deny the drama that is the parasol.
Check out these alternatives to the usual frilly, foofy subjects:

Totally handmade! Source: flickr.com

If you like the one above, but would rather buy than make. Source: etsy.com

Love this vintage style. Source: ruthbphotography.com

Like candy! Source: amazon.com

Victorian gothic. Photo courtesy of Elisa Lazo de Valdez and bustle by Kambriel. More like this. Source: visioluxus.com

Mirka's parasol isn't frilly, it's just pink. It's totally not cheating.
Photo by Jennifer Hale
Check out our parasol archives for more inspiration. Anyone planning to rock the parasol or maybe a fan instead of a bouquet? Let us know in the comments.
This round-up features Offbeat Vendors! Check out their vendor listing to see how they cater to offbeat brides:
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About Superman
Catherine Clark (aka Superman) is Offbeat Bride's Assistant Editor and a Chicago-based freelance web consultant. In her spare time, she loiters at her local library, draws and paints, bookmarks recipes, and writes for her movie news site.









Stormsgrey said
Love em all!! I got a few of those in my closet and have used them for photo shoots. These on here are beautiful!
Brie said
OMG, LOVE, LOVE, LOOOOOve!!
Thank you for sharing!!
ella said
plus, they are super re-usable/re-purposeable. My wedding parasol (paper, bought in Chinatown) is currently a lampshade.
redfeather said
I'm planning on buying a bunch of rainbow umbrellas for photo props. May send them home with the groomsmen if the fiance can't figure out a groomsmen gift heh.
Alissa said
Here's another idea for one you can make:
http://alisaburke.blogspot.com…orial.html
stephtar said
There is a nifty shop here in Seattle called Bella Umbrella (http://www.bellaumbrella.com) that has the most AMAZING vintage parasols and umbrellas for sale AND to rent! I think they ship nationwide as well. I want all of them.
Amber said
My single MOH will love this – she is particularly sun shy and the ceremony is on the beach. She usually rocks a mean Chinese parasol on a daily basis so this will totally be her thing. Will also be a Tiki themed wedding so I should get one like a giant drink umbrella.
Elisa Lazo de Valdez said
Hello! I took the photo of the "Victorian gothic" parasol and just wanted to mention that gorgeous bustle jacket that appears in the photo was designed by Kambriel.com
Great article!
Ariel Meadow Stallings said
Elisa, thanks for helping with the crediting on that photo! I've updated the caption. (And we're big Kambriel fans in these parts)
Dear said
Love those rainbow ones! I have ghost-skin as well and have an every-day parasol. It's simple bamboo, no decoration so it goes with everything and it's well made. Only cost me $20! There's good deals out there. I'm a total fluff-lover though, so if I had a wedding parasol it would probably be from Angelic Pretty. <3
Tricia said
Any ideas for something a little more Asian inspired?
Superman said
Here are some awesome Asian-inspired parasols. But this one is my favorite.
Superman said
Oh, and here's another from Luna Bazaar.