Most likely, you are aware of how crucial it is to apply SPF every day to shield your skin from damaging UV rays, but what about clothing? Although hats, longer sleeves, and other covering devices are beneficial, UPF Clothing is a new product line that incorporates UV protection into the fabric’s design. Although Ivy Coast is a game-changer, the category is still limited, making it difficult to locate options that feel comparable to your other favorite fashion labels. Founded earlier this year, the brand provides a limited but expanding range of dresses and sun hats for customers who wish to combine fashion and sun protection—a win-win situation. See six unique pieces to try and discover everything there is to know about Ivy Coast and UPF Clothing apparel, along with founder Nikki Amabile’s thoughts.
Why UPF Clothing Matters
Strong UV radiation from the sun can cause major harm, ranging from early aging symptoms to different types of skin cancer. Finding an SPF that you enjoy applying (and reapplying) daily is crucial, but there are a few other things you can do to keep safe as well. Wearing apparel that provides extra protection or even items made of fabric that has been shown to block out a specific percentage of the sun’s rays is one way to do this; here is where UPF Clothing gear comes in.
How Does UPF Clothing Work?
Like SPF in sunscreens, UPF Clothing is a number rating system that indicates how well a garment blocks off the sun’s rays. In essence, almost 98% of UV rays should be blocked by clothes with a UPF of 50 because only a fraction of that number should pass through. These ratings are set by the Federal Trade Commission and the Food and Drug Administration, so you can’t find them for just any article of clothing. However, for those who do, the Skin Cancer Foundation states that a UPF of 30 to 49 is very good and 50 or more is outstanding.1.
The two rating systems differ significantly in that UPF also accounts for UVA radiation, whilst SPF exclusively evaluates UVB protection. Accordingly, wearing UPF Clothing can provide extra protection even if you already use sunscreen properly.
The UPF Clothing Market
UPF apparel is a relatively small category in comparison to the fashion industry as a whole because of the stringent requirements and the fact that UPF Clothing rating systems were first introduced in the 1990s. When one’s own history with melanoma or other skin cancers is taken into consideration, this might cause dissatisfaction for people searching for solutions that fit their style.
“It wasn’t until I was diagnosed with skin cancer that I truly considered the importance of UPF clothing—it was a major wake-up call for me,” Amabile said with us. When I was diagnosed with melanoma, it was a turning point in my life. It was then that I understood how important UPF apparel is for protecting our skin in addition to helmets and sunscreen.
Amabile was under pressure to expand her wardrobe with UPF items, but the hunt proved to be challenging. “It made me realize that the majority of UPF Clothing was limited to swimwear and athleisure—categories that didn’t fully align with my lifestyle of effortlessly enjoying the outdoors,” she explains. “I also have a strong passion for fashion; my wardrobe is a reflection of my identity. I decided it was time to make something new when I couldn’t find anything that satisfied my needs for fashionable, daily wear and sun protection. Ivy Coast was founded to address this market gap and provide ladies like me with a means of staying safe in the sun without sacrificing style or confidence.
About Ivy Coast
After noticing the situation of the UPF Clothing apparel market, Amabile, who has a professional expertise in fashion, started striving to establish Ivy Coast. In order to balance maximal protection with a high level for quality, the designer spent almost a year creating a fabric that offers every item in the emerging collection a UPF 50+ rating without the use of traditional textiles like polyester and nylon. “I wanted something that stayed true to the brand’s aesthetic and values—something that offered creative freedom with prints and fabrics while maintaining a sustainable approach,” she shares with us.
The intelligent design, however, is arguably the best feature. It is feminine, breezy, and reminiscent of brands like Dôen or Hill House—that is, something you can truly picture yourself wearing the next time you spend the day in the sun. “A dynamic and socially active lifestyle is embodied by the Ivy Coast woman. According to Amabile, she resides in lovely seaside towns or suburban communities where the attraction of the ocean is always present. “She loves to travel, whether it’s to upscale locations in the winter or to discover the rich culture of Europe in the summer. Because she has either personally experienced skin cancer or knows someone who has, this woman is more conscious of the need to protect herself from the sun. She actively looks for solutions that fit her lifestyle and is familiar with UPF Clothing apparel.
Ivy Coast has been striking a balance between elegance and protection throughout the whole design process, keeping in mind this sophisticated yet international consumer. “Designing for this market feels like creating clothing that truly reflects who I am,” Amabile explains to us. We’re passionate about the classic charm of seaside style, and many of our silhouettes reflect that. Being a sun protection-focused company, it was essential that we provide complete coverage without compromising adaptability. A lot of our designs combine fashion and utility with adjustable button-down plackets and cuffed sleeves that people may customize to their liking. Without being pushed by trends, we are fashionable. We make sure that our designs feel both new and timeless by using classic silhouettes, timeless prints, and color schemes that complement current market trends.
Amabile is attempting to establish its presence, although Ivy Coast started off as a DTC brand. In September of last year, she presented the brand at Coterie. She is now entering the wholesale market and plans to expand into the men’s and children’s clothing categories, as well as strategically place the brand in stores that appeal to the company’s target market. “We truly believe Ivy Coast is a destination brand—best showcased in select boutique hotels, luxury resorts, and specialty boutiques, as it is a resort wear brand dedicated to fitting seamlessly into the lifestyle of its consumers,” she says. “Our goal is to ensure that every member of the family can enjoy the outdoors with the same level of protection and style that Ivy Coast offers.”
Are you prepared to purchase a few items of UPF Clothing apparel for your upcoming vacation or for extra protection on a daily basis? Don’t worry, we’ve compiled a list of six Ivy Coast pieces that you can get right now.
The Best Ivy Coast Styles to Shop
Bronte
The Bronte minidress is a unique item in Amabile’s line since it provides the ideal balance of fashion and functionality. With the appropriate accessories, it can be effortlessly transformed from a laid-back poolside ensemble to a sophisticated social gathering ensemble. It comes in white and navy. According to Amabile, it’s a popular choice for people who desire understated elegance. Its style is based on the traditional milkmaid sundress, but it offers more coverage for comfort and self-assurance. It is still a timeless wardrobe staple, whether it is dressed up for a night out or worn over a bikini. Because of its versatility, the Bronte dress is essential for any setting.
Bridgette
Anyone who enjoys puff-sleeved UPF Clothing should wear the Bridgette dress, whether they’re going to the office, a garden party, or Palm Beach for a day of shopping. Because it is comfortable and fits various body shapes, you will feel confident all day long. Because of its classic design and usefulness, the Bridgette is appropriate for any setting. It provides precisely the correct amount of covering to keep you safe and stylish. Effortlessly adaptable, this dress is prepared to go with your plans wherever the day may lead you.
Callaway
For those who like a more fitted style, the Callaway minidress is ideal because it features a fun bias ruffle hem and a collared neckline. Because it finds the perfect mix between refinement and fun, it may be used in a variety of contexts. Consider it a cross between your favorite button-down and a tennis skirt, providing both mobility and stability. This mix makes it a great choice for a sophisticated yet laid-back country club ensemble. You will always appear put together whether you’re courtside mingling or attending a laid-back brunch. You’ll stand out wherever you go thanks to its sophisticated charm.
Blake
This UPF Clothing is ideal for outdoor activities since it blends style and practicality. The flowery print gives it a vibrant, new vibe, and its flowing silhouette lends a touch of elegance. The subtle appeal of the keyhole detail strikes the ideal balance between being elegant and whimsical. It’s perfect for sunny garden parties or outdoor gatherings because it’s made to keep you fashionable while protecting your skin. With its subtle confidence, the dress guarantees that you will stand out with ease. It’s an item that allows you to savor the present without compromising UPF Clothing style or comfort.
Zinnia Sun Hat
Ivy Coast’s range includes a number of fashionable and functional UPF Clothing sun hats in addition to outfits. These hats protect your face and scalp in a crucial way without sacrificing style. Their timeless, short-brimmed style adds a sophisticated touch that works for a variety of settings. Because of their adaptability, they travel well and are a useful addition to day trips or vacations. These feel more sophisticated and suitable for contexts other than the beach than the usual big beach hats. They add a touch of refinement whether you’re running errands, going to an outdoor brunch, or just walking around the city. Without limiting your outfit options, it’s a simple and fashionable method to stay protected from the sun.
Geranium Sun Hat
With its lovely long ribbon and wide brim reminiscent of an antique, this hat is the ideal choice if you enjoy making a statement. A fashion-forward accent to any ensemble, it’s designed to provide a feeling of drama. Wear it with fitted UPF Clothing for a sleek, contemporary style or with a flowy sundress for a romantic effect. Its striking style guarantees attention, embodying the essence of luxury wherever you go. It instantly elevates your look and is perfect for a variety of events, including rooftop brunches and garden parties. This hat epitomizes ultimate trip splendor, whether you’re browsing the streets of Europe or relaxing at a resort. For people who wish to combine style and class, this item is essential.
