to buy a ladies' parasol and use it?

[OohMavis]

In my mind I'm going to look as elegant and sweat-free as Kate Middleton. In reality I'm nearly nine months pregnant and the size of a whale.

But seriously, why don't we use parasols anymore? Why are they reserved for patios and prams (and the odd goth)?!

I'm buying one. I'm going to look ridiculous. And I don't care.

Good for you! I live near a large Korean community and the women and girls there frequently use parasols in any kind of sunlight. Often with sun hats as well with huge peaks. They are right and so are you. Strikes me as well that the right parasol would be easier to store in your handbag when indoors etc than a sunhat - you are inspiring me to perhaps go shopping for one.

You probably know this already but you are more prone to sun burn and sun damage while pregnant too.

When I was in SE Asia I had an umbrella like the local women. Bloody sensible if you ask me. And shade, a hat and sun screen. Former Goth.

I have a parasol that is currently decorating a corner of the bedroom ceiling. Oddly it is from Korea. Maybe I should get it down and use it properly

She looks like she's just jumped out of a cocktail.

It is common sense! So why don't we use them? It's silly.

I can't wait to saunter along on the school run smugly twirling my parasol whilst everyone sweats one out. It's going to be magical.

Should I go for bamboo or lace?

I have one I use on sunny days. Even with suncream on I burn.

Worra

Mines bamboo. Bright pink.

I just use an ordinary umbrella. Not quite as elegant as a parasol, and I definitely don't look like Kate Middleton with it!

I've got a beautiful Edwardian-style one. I get lots of compliments on it and my little patch of shade. Go for it!

I used to work outside in the sun with no shade. I used a golf umbrella so I wasn't baking.

I've got one. I hate hats making my sweaty head more sweaty. I also like being different.

I saw someone with one at an event last week, pretty sensible as it was scorching & no seats left in the shade.

Just wondering where you can buy them now...!

Eh , I use a parasol all the time on holiday. You don't see them in the uk because it's rarely very sunny, but of course it's normal and fine to use one.

Botanic I'm looking at eBay, loads of choice. Lindybop have a nice white one too that I'm eyeing up for a tenner. Hmm, decisions.

Oh I wish I had one this morning. I was very stupid and went out for a picnick with out a hat and there wasn't much shade.

I'm due in 12 weeks.

I just use my little umbrella a la all the women in sri lanka.

The Range actually had some really pretty ones in recently for around £5