Chiffon is a lightweight, sheer fabric often made from silk, polyester, or nylon. It's prized for its delicate drape and breezy movement, making it a popular choice for warm-weather fashion — from flowy blouses to summer dresses and beach cover-ups. But while chiffon may look effortlessly elegant, it does very little to protect your skin from the sun.
The Truth About Chiffon and UV Exposure
Chiffon’s sheer structure is its biggest drawback when it comes to shielding your skin. The fibers are loosely woven, creating minimal barrier against ultraviolet radiation (UVR).
- A typical chiffon garment has a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating under 10, meaning it blocks less than 90% of UV rays — far below the dermatologist-recommended minimum of UPF 30.
- Pale and pastel-colored chiffons allow even more UV radiation to reach the skin.
- When wet — whether from sweat, humidity, or a dip in the ocean — chiffon’s already low sun protection diminishes even further.
What Makes a Fabric Sun-Protective?
Effective sun-protective clothing is designed with both structure and science in mind. To be considered protective, a fabric should:
- Be tightly woven, have a thick fabric or specially treated to block UV penetration
- Have a high UPF rating — ideally UPF 50+, which blocks 98% of UV rays, and this must be lab tested and certified
Unfortunately, most fashion-first fabrics — chiffon included — fall short of these standards.
The Problem with Warm-Weather Wardrobes
Chiffon is a staple of summer wardrobes precisely because it’s light and breathable. But that airiness comes at a cost: exposed skin. Many people assume that wearing “a layer” offers protection, but if that layer is transparent or poorly woven, UV rays pass right through.
This false sense of protection contributes to cumulative sun damage — one of the leading causes of premature aging and skin cancer.
Our Solution: Style Without Sacrifice
At Some Sun, we design clothing with a different mindset: sun protection that doesn’t compromise your style. Our pieces offer:
- UPF 50+ certified fabrics for serious skin protection
- Timeless, elevated silhouettes inspired by classic design
- Beautifully engineered textures and tones — made to be worn daily, not just at the beach
Our styles have the grace of a flowing fabric, but the strength of real protection — because you shouldn’t have to choose between beauty and function.
Protect your skin. Elevate your wardrobe.
Say goodbye to sheer risk — and hello to thoughtful design that protects, flatters, and lasts.
