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Colourful protection gears

UMBRELLAS these days have become a fashion accessory with their range of colours, designs and sizes

Like so many other items of need, the ubiquitous umbrellas too have undergone a sea change. There was a time when umbrellas were available only in black and were used as a protection gear during the rainy season.

But now they have acquired the status of a fashion accessory. They come in different colours and sizes. The designs on them too are eye-catching.

Handy and small folding umbrellas move off the shelf fast with women being their greatest patrons.

Easy to carry in handbags, they are available in various pastel shades and bright mono colours. So much so that they can even be matched with the day's dress. Printed umbrellas with different designs such us floral and geometric are apparently quite popular in the city.

The latest style is a contrast border printed at the border. However, men seem to be sticking to the conventional black though the preference nowadays is for the small size umbrellas.

For kids, the choice is endless. The colours and designs are very attractive. Children mostly fall for fluorescent colours on which are made cartoon characters.

From China

These are mostly imported from China and in fact have certain enticing accessories like a whistle attached to the handle or a booklet of fairytale knotted to the handle that is moulded in the shape of a dwarf.

The most popular is the multi-coloured umbrella meant to look like a rainbow. The prices of junior umbrellas range from Rs.50 to Rs.200.

Many imported umbrellas brands have flooded the local market with attractive colours and concepts.

Since their prices are comparatively less than the local brands, people prefer imported umbrellas.

Very cheap

Near the Meenakshi Temple many vendors can be seen selling umbrellas at very low prices and a further bargaining can get you the piece at a throw away rate. But the durability of these cheap imported umbrellas is much under doubt.

The local branded umbrellas, however, come with a guarantee though they come at a higher rate. It is the quality of the fabric used in the umbrella that decides the price of the product.

There are various models, like a three-folded umbrella costs from Rs.150 to Rs.200 depending on the colour and design.

The cost of a four-fold handy pouched umbrella starts from Rs. 300. Several local manufacturers make them available from Rs. 70 to Rs. 250.

If you happen to yearn for those old stately umbrellas with sturdy wooden curved handles and fully wooden umbrellas, then there is plenty to choose from still.

There is no dearth of variety and quality of umbrellas or even customers.

After all nobody likes to get drenched or get caught unawares. Given vagaries of the weather, it is always safe to carry an umbrella.

NAZIA MOHAMMED

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