Recommending Linen for Summer, vol. 2:

An original parasol handcrafted by Japanese artisans—beautiful even when closed, and a joy to use in the sunshine.

Linen is a natural material perfectly suited to summer, with its distinctively crisp texture and excellent moisture absorption and quick-drying properties. With climate change bringing muggy heat well into mid-autumn, linen fits well with life in Japan and remains useful throughout the year. This year, once again, we're holding our Linen Market, gathering together everyday linen goods and clothing.

Linen only grows more comfortable and familiar the more you use it—a material you'll want to keep close for years to come.

>>Click here for "Recommending Linen for Summer, vol. 1: ZUTTO's Exclusive fog linen works Linen French Sleeve Nightshirt"

A parasol crafted by Japanese artisans who specialize in made-to-order umbrellas.

From left: Indigo Denim, Linen Dungaree, Linen Khaki, Linen Rose

The ZUTTO parasol we're introducing this time is a long-handled umbrella filled with the artisans' dedication and skill. Every step, from cutting the fabric to attaching the parts, is done entirely by hand. This parasol was crafted at a workshop founded in 1973 that specializes in made-to-order umbrellas, home to skilled artisans who also produce made-to-order umbrellas for many apparel brands.

I believe Japan is a country that loves umbrellas like nowhere else in the world. When it rains, people carry rain umbrellas; when the sun is strong, they carry parasols. Because Japan has four distinct seasons and sees a lot of rain in spring and autumn, most people own several umbrellas, from long ones to folding ones. Japanese craftsmanship in umbrella-making itself is also said to be world-class. And because these are Japanese-made umbrellas, it's reassuring to know that repairs can be requested right away if something breaks.

Of course, ZUTTO's parasols come with thorough after-sales care for any issues or malfunctions that may arise with use. If something goes wrong—whether it's replacing a rib, swapping out a part, repairing the stitching, or re-covering the fabric—please feel free to contact our customer support.

A simple, stylish parasol that's easy to coordinate with your whole outfit, not just as a standalone accessory

Linen Dungaree

This parasol has a rib length of 47cm, a standard size that provides ample shade when opened. Care has been taken to ensure it looks beautiful when open, blending naturally into its surroundings. The handle is made of pale wood-grain rattan, and the center pole also has a wood-grain finish, giving it a natural impression—warm and understated, the kind of look that pairs well with yukata, kimono, and other traditional Japanese attire.

Care has also been taken to prevent pinched fingers when opening and closing the umbrella. The section below the ferrule (the jingasa) and the upper stopper above the lower runner are both wrapped in the umbrella's fabric—a thoughtful touch for anyone who finds opening and closing umbrellas tricky.

Linen Rose

Why Choose Linen for a Parasol

Parasols come in several materials, including cotton, nylon, and hemp. Among these, linen parasols offer a coolness up close that's noticeably different from other materials. The distinctive texture of linen fabric feels like it lets air pass through more than nylon or cotton does.

Among ZUTTO's collection of parasols that are beautiful even when closed, the following three colors use linen.

Linen Rose, Linen Khaki: 100% linen

Linen Dungaree: 50% linen, 50% cotton

Linen Khaki

This parasol is perfect for occasions like taking the train and walking a short distance to a museum. When you want proper sun protection but also want to feel the greenery and dappled sunlight around the museum as you walk, a linen parasol—which lets through soft, gentle light—is just right.

It's also perfect for times when you're wearing your favorite shibori-dyed yukata and carrying a basket bag. The airy texture of the yukata fabric pairs beautifully with linen.

A linen parasol also suits everyday clothing perfectly. In summer, you often see people wearing black dresses, which can look a bit heavy—but simply pairing them with a linen parasol somehow makes the whole outfit feel lighter and more summery.

Linen Rose

What's great about a linen parasol is that it's not just for shade—like a hat or a basket bag, it can be enjoyed as a "quintessentially summer item."

Linen Khaki

A Beautiful Shape That's Never in the Way, Even When Closed

Since parasols are often carried closed while walking, it's nice when their shape when closed is also given careful thought. This parasol is designed to be a size smaller than a typical rain umbrella, so it looks neat and compact even when you're carrying both it and a bag.

Of course, it's still large enough to give you proper coverage. Larger parasols can require extra care when walking through crowds, but with this size, there's no need to worry.

A linen parasol that keeps both body and mind feeling cool. The hot days are far from over—so why not try a lovely parasol that lets you enjoy the sunshine?

▽ Click here for the product page: A Parasol to Enjoy the Sunshine, Beautiful Even When Closed