Sun Smart, Effortlessly Chic: UPF 50+ Swimwear for the Season Ahead

What is UPF?

You’ve probably seen SPF on your sunscreen, but UPF can feel a little more mysterious.

• SPF (Sun Protection Factor) protects your skin from UVB rays when applied directly to the skin.
• UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) measures how much UV radiation can pass through fabric and reach your skin.

So when we say UPF 50+ fabric, we mean it blocks at least 98% of UV rays from your skin.

In real life, that looks like this: You throw on your Ash Cropped Rash Vest or Cate Rash Vest, head out for a walk, and know the skin underneath is properly protected while you get on with your day. No constant reapplying under straps. No wondering if your shoulders are secretly turning pink.

It’s not a replacement for sunscreen on exposed skin, but it is a seriously strong first line of defence for anything covered.

Why UPF 50+ fabric matters more than ever

Our summers are getting hotter, our UV levels are getting higher, and many of us are spending more time outdoors enjoying that sweet, sweet fresh air. That’s where active swimwear in Australia really comes into its own.

Women are asking more from their wardrobe. We want pieces that:

• Protect our skin
• Support our bodies
• Look good in a photo
• Feel good in motion

UPF 50+ swimwear sits right in that sweet spot. It gives you the freedom to enjoy the sun without feeling like you need to crouch in the shade every time the UV index climbs.

How Sheila makes sun protection feel easy as

Let’s be honest. A lot of “sun-safe” options from the past were… not so glam. Stiff, shiny, sporty in a way that did not match the rest of your wardrobe.

Sheila does things differently.

1. Soft, luxury-feel fabrics

Our UPF 50+ fabric is made from GRS-certified recycled nylon with elastane, so it feels smooth and supportive, not crunchy or restrictive. It moves with you and holds its shape, season after season.

2. Designs that protect and flatter

We build sun protection into silhouettes you actually want to wear:

• Mina One Piece for full-body confidence.
• Ash Cropped Rash Vest for arm and shoulder coverage without feeling restricted.
• Cate Rash Vest for more coverage, more movement, more peace of mind.
• Alyssa Mid for leg coverage with a sculpted, high-waisted fit.

3. Coverage that feels considered

With Sheila, you decide how much skin you want on show — not your swimwear. Thoughtful cuts, supportive fabrics and smart design give you real choice (without the flimsy, unreliable fits that make the decision for you).

Styling UPF 50+ swimwear for the season ahead

UPF 50+ swimwear is the practical part. Now for the fun bit: how to style it so you feel like your best summer self.

1. Morning movement

For sunrise walks, Pilates and first coffee of the day:

• Ash Cropped Rash Vest, Alyssa Mid and your favourite sneakers. 
• Add our Logo Cap and SPF on exposed areas for full-body sun-smart points.

2. Beach days that go from sand to snacks

For the all-dayers. The “we are just going for a quick swim” days that end twelve hours later with salty hair and happy-tired vibes.

Try:

• Mina One Piece
• An oversized linen shirt left open
• Slides, sunnies, a big beach tote

3. Backyard and park days

Not every sun-heavy day involves the ocean. Kids in the sprinkler, long lunches, picnic rug with a book, it all adds up to hours outside.

For that:

• A loose fitted long sleeve and Alyssa Mid shorts.
• Bare feet optional but recommended